“I am humbled by the growth and meaning of Operation Walk throughout Orthopedics and the countries where it has operated, including our own. The thousands of people it has touched, both the givers and the receivers, have better lives because of the good and goodness that is OPWALK.”

-Lawrence D. Dorr, M.D.

Founder Operation Walk

He shared these words at our 20th Anniversary Gala. A defining moment that honored what had been achieved and hinted at what was still possible.

Since then, that impact has only grown. Together, we’ve transformed the lives of more than 17,000 patients across twelve countries, including right here in the United States.

But we are just getting started. We can’t slow down now.

Join us as we celebrate 30 years of restoring mobility, dignity, and hope and help us power what comes next.

This unforgettable evening on May 16th will bring together music, stories, laughter and powerful reminders of what compassion in action can achieve. And yes, there are a few exciting surprises waiting in store.

One highlight you won’t want to miss: a rare opportunity to bid on a Fender Stratocaster generously donated and signed by Sir Mick Jagger. Inspired by Operation Walk’s mission, he has already sponsored two joint replacement surgeries and now he’s inviting you to be part of that impact through this extraordinary piece of rock and roll history.

Tickets are limited and selling quickly. Don’t wait! Secure your seat today and be part of an evening that truly changes lives.

To reserve your tickets now, click the link below. For questions, phone purchases, or to make a donation, please call Marion at 424-465-3600.

Be part of the movement. Help Operation Walk Los Angeles continue to restore mobility.

Operation Walk has had a long-standing partnership with Cornell College and its pre-healthcare program, Dimensions. This program for Health Professions provides comprehensive support for pre-health students, including specialized advising, internships, and research opportunities.

With Cornell College being Dr. Dorr’s undergrad alma mater, this program fits perfectly with his vision to immerse students at the ground level of Operation Walk, experiencing healthcare at its truest form. This tradition has given dozens of students throughout the years an introduction to medicine and service to others. 

Our upcoming mission to the Philippines welcomes two student volunteers, Eva Plathe and Tansy Graves. Learn more about these motivated students and why they are excited to volunteer.

My name is Eva Plathe. I am currently a junior Biochemistry and Molecular Biology student at Cornell College in Mt. Vernon, IA. I am also a member of the women's soccer team. 

My desire to work in healthcare began in high school when I worked as a dietary aide at a nursing home. Building trust and gaining the respect of the residents made me realize how rewarding the work was. Currently, I work as a home health aide and love the diversity of the clients and their medical needs.

One thing I have learned is that every patient has a story that deserves to be heard. I am so excited to be a part of Operation Walk Los Angeles and experience the power of medicine in another country. The physicians and staff traveling overseas to volunteer for the betterment of these patients embodies what I hope to bring to the medical profession one day.

Hi, my name is Tansy Graves, and I am a junior at Cornell College in Mount Vernon, Iowa. I am originally from Mililani, Hawaii. I have always been passionate about aiding in healthcare and interacting with patients. I especially enjoy hearing about their experiences with healthcare and its positive impact on their lives.

At home, I have experience working as a nurse aide on a stroke and telemetry medical-surgical floor. Operation Walk and its mission interests me because I enjoy being able to help and see patients after surgery and through the entirety of their stay in the hospital. When I have the opportunity to aid patients during their rehabilitation, seeing the joy on their faces when they are able to do things considered “second nature" to us, like walking or holding a phone, is so rewarding.

I am so fortunate for the opportunity to be a part of Operation Walk and am so excited to join their mission this summer to the Philippines!

Our mission to the Philippines is quickly approaching and OpWalk is getting the best messages from our 2024 patients and their families.

Recently, Je Wel shared this note and update about her mom, Eliza.


“Hello, Operation Walk Los Angeles! 

I can’t wait to see you all again this summer. My mom, Eliza, is one of your patients from 2024 here in General Santos City. 

Almost two years later, she is doing so well. She can walk without pain and can do things on her own here at home and can’t wait to show the doctors and nurses her progress. 

Thank you so much for helping us!”

“The influence of a mother in the lives of her children is beyond calculation.”
— James E. Faust

We love this quote because it so powerfully reflects the spirit of our volunteers. Operation Walk is privileged to work alongside remarkable women who are not only devoted mothers, but also leaders in health care — guiding both their families and communities with compassion and purpose.

For thirty years, these extraordinary women have balanced their careers, personal lives, and motherhood while helping transform lives through joint replacement surgery. In doing so, they lead by example, showing their children and grandchildren what it means to care deeply, act selflessly, and serve others through meaningful work in health care.

Through their leadership and generosity, they are raising the next generation to value service and community. Their sons and daughters are learning firsthand the importance of giving back, sharing their time, talents, and resources to help create a more equitable, just, and compassionate world.

To all our incredible moms, grandmothers, aunts, and godmothers: thank you for leading with heart, for inspiring through action, and for shaping a better future for us all.

Happy Mother’s Day!