In a month of giving thanks, Syracuse Orthopedic Specialists (SOS) celebrates the incredible community support that made the recent Operation Walk New York (OpWalk NY) mission to Ghana the most successful yet! For ten days in October, SOS medical professionals joined dozens of volunteers from Central New York to provide free surgical care to patients suffering from debilitating bone and joint conditions. This marked the sixth OpWalk NY mission to Ghana.
Drs. Seth, Brett, and Max Greenky of SOS led the surgical team, joined by SOS colleague Dr. Stephen Bogosian and local surgeons, Drs. Tim Damron, Kevin Kleis, and Mike Canfield. From October 9–18, the team performed 110 joint replacement surgeries for 95 patients aged 19–60.
Many patients suffer joint damage caused by sickle cell anemia, a genetic blood disorder prevalent in Africa that can severely impair mobility at a young age.
One of the patients was Edna (39 yrs), who had struggled with hip pain since age 9. After surgery, she began a journey toward restored mobility and independence. This was made possible by the dedication of the OpWalk NY team and the generous financial support of our donors and sponsors.
At the host hospital, St. Joseph in Koforidua, the team collaborated with local medical staff to perform surgeries, share expertise, and train physicians, nurses, and physical therapists in post-operative care. OpWalk NY physical therapists taught rehab exercises and instructed family members on the ways to support their loved ones through recovery, to ensure the best outcome from surgery.
“This work could not happen without the support of our community,” says an OpWalk NY team member. “From donating medical supplies and equipment to fundraising events like the annual golf tournament and smaller efforts like wearing jeans on Friday—every contribution helps bring life-changing care to patients in Ghana.”
For this mission, the staff at Specialists' One-Day Surgery Center also coordinated a drive to collect diapers and wipes, which volunteers donated to the hospital’s maternity ward.
Giving Tuesday (December 2)
While the Ghana 2025 mission has concluded, hundreds more patients await the care that only OpWalk NY can provide. The team is anxious to return as soon as possible to continue restoring mobility. Your Giving Tuesday gift can help fund the next mission, providing life-changing orthopedic surgeries, rehabilitation, and hope for patients who have waited years for relief. YOU can be a part of this, by making a donation.
Follow OpWalk NY on Facebook for stories from team members and patients: https://www.facebook.com/OperationWalkSyracuse
Donate at https://operationwalknewyork.org
Operation Walk New York is a 501 (c)(3) charity