Day 6: Thursday, March 6, 2025 // FIP Blog
Even with 73 surgeries already behind them, our team had one final day of operation. Any guesses for the total surgery count? It was another great day of care that ended in an evening of celebration.
Our day kicked off with a HIIT workout—though the real adrenaline rush came from spotting a snake in the pool! After breakfast, Gavin led us in devotion, setting a reflective and grateful tone for the day.
The orthopedic teams made their rounds, checking on patients with warm smiles, reassuring words, and healing hands. Today, a number of children were among those awaiting surgery (Maria’s story below) and beginning recovery, reminding us once again of the life-changing impact of this work. Today, our teams completed 20 surgeries with 4 hips, 11 knees, and 5 foot & ankle.
Today’s Heroes: The Pre- and Post-Op Teams
Our Pre-Op Team plays a crucial role in preparing patients, offering encouragement, prayer, and comfort before they head into the OR. They set the tone for welcoming our patients and helping ease any worries. Meanwhile, the Post-Op Team provides that first reassuring presence when patients wake up, ensuring they are comfortable, monitored, and surrounded by words of hope and support. Their care is the bridge between fear and relief, between uncertainty and healing. Thank you to our heroes!
Maria’s Story: A Dream to Walk
Maria, an eight-year-old girl, was born with a condition that affected her legs. At just one year and nine months old, she underwent surgery, but the procedure was unsuccessful, leaving her unable to walk. Her family, living in a remote village four hours from town, has carried her everywhere since. Despite her challenges, Maria remains determined, longing for the day she can stand and walk on her own.
At school, Maria watches her classmates play soccer while she sits on the sidelines, wishing she could join them. She dreams of helping her mother take care of her younger siblings, especially her nine-month-old sister. Her father, who works in agriculture harvesting lemons, bananas, and mangoes, does his best to provide, but the family struggles with the difficulties of carrying Maria to church, school, and other places. The burden is heavy, but their love for her is unwavering.
Her journey to surgery began when a medical team visited their village and recommended treatment. Now, Maria is excited about the future—she knows she will be in a cast for two months, but she eagerly anticipates wearing leggings and showing her friends her newly straightened legs. Her best friend at school has been cheering her on, and Maria looks forward to the day she can finally walk beside her.
As her surgery approaches, hope fills her heart. The long journey to the hospital, the years of being carried, and the longing to move freely are about to change. Soon, Maria will take her first steps, a moment that will not only transform her life but also bring immense joy to her family, who have been waiting for this day with unwavering faith and love.
Celebration
After the final surgery wrapped up, our team gathered for a well-earned evening of celebration. There were heartfelt speeches, cheers, and plenty of laughter. We reflected on the impact of the week—the lives touched, the pain relieved, and the renewed sense of hope we’ve witnessed in so many.
Tomorrow, we move forward with hearts full, knowing that this week has been about more than just surgeries. It has been about restoring dignity, rewriting futures, and answering prayers.
All the best,
Randy
Team Blogger / Photographer
