Operation Walk Florida
an opportunity to volunteer…
Jill had the opportunity to volunteer with Operation Walk Florida in August 2024 in Antigua Guatemala. Operation Walk Florida is a 501(c)(3) volunteer medical humanitarian organization that provides the gift of mobility through life-changing joint replacement surgeries at no cost to those in need. These patients have severe arthritic knee and hips. They do not have the social safety nets available to us, and without the assistance of humanitarian efforts are unable to work and care for their families.
The Operation Walk Florida team consisted of 51 volunteers, each with their own unique background and expertise. They hailed from Tampa, Jacksonville, Gainesville, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Orlando to provide 56 total knee replacement surgeries to 54 patients. Our medical volunteers donate their time to provide comprehensive care of the patients from initial evaluation, surgery, medical care, physical therapy, and discharge planning. Operation Walk Florida provides all these services at no cost to the patient. Some of the supplies are donated, but it is estimated that $3,000 per patient in additional funding is required to cover expenses for the trip. They sourced 513 types of medical materials—13,611 items in total—ranging from implants to sterile gowns. These supplies were carefully loaded onto 13 pallets and shipped to Guatemala City,
Operation Walk was established in 1996 and now has 20 team chapters throughout the world that have provided approximately 17,000 joint replacements in 25 countries and the USA. Dr. Kenneth Gustke has volunteered with Operation Walk since 2004. He established the Operation Walk Florida, Inc. chapter in 2018 and is the current Chairman of the foundation.
Many of you, family members, and friends have experienced the benefit of these successful surgeries. It is our hope that you are willing to financially contribute. Your tax-deductible donation will directly impact the success of our mission trip by purchasing supplies and covering expenses to provide the gift of mobility.
To learn more about Operation Walk Florida, Inc. and to DONATE online, visitwww.operationwalkflorida.org or mail checks to Operation Walk Florida, P.O. Box 486, Palm Harbor, FL 34682. Please add in support of Jill Traver, PT in the comment line of your donation. Contact Susie Heinrichs, PA-C, Team Leader, for additional information or upcoming fundraising events at OWF.SUSIE@gmail.com.
