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2019 World Marathon Challenge - Ginny Turner

Tax deductible
This fundraiser supporting Operation Walk-Freedom to Move is my testimonial for how thankful I am to be able to continue to enjoy the sport I love, thanks to Dr. Paul Duwelius (the very talented surgeon and Founder of Freedom to Move) who replaced both of my knees in 2017.  This organization's medical teams provide orthopedic surgeries to those needing life-improving procedures, ensuring that they have the ability to work, move, and engage in life.  

Help me make a difference in the lives of patients who would not otherwise have access to orthopedic care.  Your donation is gratefully appreciated!

I am a 66 year old grandmother of 6 who loves destination races. No stranger to travel, I have completed marathons on each of the 7 continents of the world TWICE, all 50 States in the USA plus DC TWICE, all the provinces and territories of Canada, plus The North Pole Marathon.

Twelve years ago I held two Guinness World Records:  1) The shortest duration for a woman to complete marathons on all 7 continents of the world—113 days.  2) The shortest duration for a woman to complete marathons on all 7 continents of the world and the North Pole—324 days.

After 208 marathons/128 half-marathons, I effectively wore out my knees.

In January 2017 total knee replacement was on my schedule.  My surgeon did not recommend both at the same time, so the right knee was first.   I was up walking on my “new” knee the day of surgery.  Pain meds for the first 5 days, and started physical therapy a week after surgery.  I followed my PT schedule and was thrilled with the results.  The toughest PT challenge with my right knee was gaining full extension.  I race-walked a 5K less than 3 months later, just a week before my left knee surgery.

My left knee was replaced in April 2017, three months after the first one.  Again, up and walking day of surgery.  Only used pain meds for 3 days and physical therapy began a week after surgery.  This time my biggest challenge with my left knee was getting as much flexion as possible.  I worked diligently and was able to gain more range of motion in both of my knees; more than I had experienced in decades.  My knee replacement goal was to achieve the best possible outcome.  The best parts are my “straight” legs and being PAIN FREE!

I completed the half-marathon distance (13.1 miles with my new knees) on each of the 7 continents in 7 DAYS with 2019 World Marathon Challenge. 

Operation Walk-Freedom to Move is made up of an all-volunteer team of orthopedic surgeons, anesthesiologists, scrub techs and surgical nurses who are dedicated to transforming the lives of people living in poor, rural communities around the globe.  The doctors, nurses and volunteers fund their own travel expenses. 

NOTE: I personally funded 100% of my travel and expenses for the 2019 World Marathon Challenge.  ALL donations to this Go-Fund-Me campaign will go directly to Operation Walk-Freedom to Move


Organizer

Ginny Turner
Organizer
Hillsboro, OR
Freedom To Move Medical Missions
 
Registered nonprofit
Donations are typically 100% tax deductible in the US.

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