The cult 'restoring' the victims of female genital mutilation - in pictures

Nadine Gary, who was inspired to help FGM victims by her outré Raëlian sect Photograph: Naomi Harris

Zaria gets checked in before the surgery Photograph: Naomi Harris

Dr. Marci Bowers performs surgery pro bono for the patients in the Clitoraid program. Dr. Bowers is one of only two doctors in North America trained to perform this surgery Photograph: Naomi Harris

Somali born Ayanna is put under anesthesia in preparation for her surgery Photograph: Naomi Harris

Dr Marci Bowers inbetween surgeries Photograph: Naomi Harris

Facing the future: Zaria awaits surgery while Sara recovers Photograph: Naomi Harris

Clitoraid patients Massah and India are sharing a room at the hotel and are helping each other through the recovery period and intend to remain friends Photograph: Naomi Harris

Dr. Marci Bowers performs FGM repair surgery on one of the women who was brought to San Mateo by Clitoraid Photograph: Naomi Harris

Best friends Emma and Ayanna in their hotel room in San Francisco. Long time friends Emma wanted to be there to support Ayanna during the procedure and recovery though she did not undergo FGM as a young girl herself Photograph: Naomi Harris

Zaria, the day after her FGM restoration Photograph: Naomi Harris

Two patients relax by their hotel pool during their recovery period Photograph: Naomi Harris