What we take for granted

It was during the pandemic that we became big walkers. My husband, three daughters and I participated in a walking challenge together. Walking strengthened my physical and mental health so I continued long after restrictions were lifted, yet I realize now that I took it all for granted. I was able to enjoy nature and companions on my daily adventures. At some point, however, I pulled a groin muscle and each step became less enjoyable. Two of our daughters are runners so I asked for stretches but nothing seemed to help. After seeing a physical therapist who recommended x-rays, bone-on-bone arthritis was discovered in my hip. I was healthy and way too young at age 62! Anti-inflammatory meds and PT exercises helped for around a year but the pain impacted every area of my life. I had hip replacement surgery in late January 2025 and it’s now a whole new world! 

When I heard about the Ghanaians with Sickle Cell Disease whose hips or knees are destroyed at very young ages, my heart was greatly moved. They live in a walking society and, as many of us have discovered, hips and knees are something we do not notice until they malfunction and then our lives are greatly impacted. Many of the men and women with joint issues in Ghana are under 30. They are attempting to provide for their families and parent their children. PT and the anti-inflammatory medications that helped me are not as available. 

Operation Walk is an organization dedicated to alleviating their suffering. From the wellspring of gratitude, it is my hope that a whole new world opens for the many unknown Ghanaian friends who will benefit greatly from the care of these generous orthopedic surgeons and the whole medical team. It is an incredible organization! If you are looking for a way to make a difference, I can tell you that helping people get a new hip or knee joint is literally life changing for them and a such great way to contribute to our world.