Hi everyone,

I just got back from an Operation Walk mission trip in Antigua, Guatemala with the Pittsburgh group, and it was truly an unbelievable experience. Being part of the team in the operating room and seeing how much these surgeries mean to the patients was something I’ll never forget.

The people we cared for showed incredible strength. Many go home after surgery with only Tylenol for pain, yet they’re smiling and grateful beyond words. In clinic, there were tears just from hearing they might have the chance to get a new hip or knee, the kind of care we take for granted in the U.S. Some of our patients were only in their 40s, living with pain every day from things that could have been prevented early on, like hip dysplasia. These surgeries completely change their lives by helping them walk, work, and care for their families again.

This trip reminded me why I became a nurse and how powerful it is to give back through our work. 

I’m also proud to share that I’m the OR team lead for Operation Walk NYC, which we’re building right now. Our first mission trip will be in June 2026, and I couldn’t be more excited to help bring the same kind of life-changing surgeries to more people who need them most.

All donations will go directly toward mission expenses such as supplies, travel, and everything that makes these surgeries possible. Any amount truly helps and means so much.

Thank you for supporting this mission and helping us change lives one step at a time.

Ashlyn