Dr. Lawrence Dorr, Jeri Ward, RN, and Mary Ellen Sieben, RN, had a vision. Thirty years ago, they set out on a mission to fight joint diseases and restore mobility to the underserved, the vulnerable, and those whose lives had been interrupted by pain and loss of mobility.

Juan Manuel Aleman Diaz is just one example of a life changed by Operation Walk. Through the concerted effort of Shelly Craft, Jeri Ward, RN, Ava Baldwin, and Sandy Barker, he has received four joint replacements from three Operation Walk teams working together to achieve the goal of a life restored.

Click the link to read about this young artist and his father’s story in his own words and how together, Operation Walk Midwest, Operation Walk LA, and Operation Walk Manitoba changed his life.

As we prepare for our return to General Santos City, Philippines in 2026, things have been very busy behind the scenes. We’re gathering and coordinating everything needed for surgery—because we truly bring everything with us. 

We’re also screening and selecting patients to ensure they meet the criteria, carefully choosing the right volunteers for this mission, and working closely with our local partners to make sure all requirements are met and everything is done properly and in compliance. All of this is happening while we continue to balance our full-time jobs and everyday responsibilities.

As a Filipino nurse, going back feels both personal and important. Even with progress, many patients still don’t have access to timely joint replacement surgery, and I’ve seen how people live with pain for years simply because they don’t have that option.

What we do there goes beyond surgery. It’s about helping people move again, return to their daily lives, and feel like themselves again. It’s also about working alongside local teams, sharing knowledge, and learning from one another.

For me, this is my way of giving back to the country that shaped me. Because in the end, it’s not just about surgery—it’s about giving someone their life back.

Trish Lindsey

Team Leader

RN BSN CNOR

Hello!

My name is Daena Talavera, a current senior chemical engineering major attending the University of Notre Dame! Alongside engineering, I am a member of the varsity fencing team, an undergraduate researcher in the O’Sullivan Biophotonics lab, and an amateur chef.

Although these passions may seem unrelated at first glance, each has deepened my appreciation for discipline, creativity, and purposeful problem-solving. Through them, I have discovered that I am most fulfilled when I can use what I have learned to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. That mindset is also what draws me to medicine. I am inspired by the opportunity to combine technical problem-solving with compassionate, hands-on care in a way that directly improves patients’ lives.

As the child of Filipino immigrants, the opportunity to serve in the Philippines holds especially deep meaning for me. My parents have always reminded me that many of the opportunities I have today were made possible not only by their sacrifices, but also by the support and sense of community that surrounded them back home. Hearing that throughout my life has instilled in me a deep desire to give back in whatever ways I can. Having already participated in a medical mission in the Philippines, I have experienced firsthand how fulfilling it is to serve in that setting. 

I am deeply inspired by Operation Walk’s continued commitment to restoring mobility, relieving pain, and improving the quality of life for patients who might not otherwise have access to this care. I feel genuinely grateful to be part of a mission that will have such a direct and lasting impact!

Join us for the Celebration!

30th Anniversary Gala, May 16th

Annandale Golf Club

Cheers to 30 Years! Join us for a glamorous gala night celebrating Operation Walk. Invitations have been sent, entertainment booked, and the stage is set. All we need is you.

Thirty years have passed in a heartbeat, and what a journey it’s been. We invite you to join us for a special evening to reflect on three decades of shared experiences, growth, and commitment. You have been part of our story since the beginning and we would be honored to have you with us for this milestone celebration.

Join us for an unforgettable evening of cocktails, dinner, and dancing. 

Contact Marion at marion@operationwalk.org or call 424-465-3600 to RSVP and purchase your tickets. You can also find tickets and more information on our website.

We look forward to seeing you all on May 16th!

Spring is a time for rebirth and transformation. At Operation Walk Los Angeles, that is our mission. 

Through teamwork, dedication, and heart, we help to transform lives one surgery at a time.

Wishing you all a wonderful season of beauty, growth, and renewal.