Operation Walk is all about family. Whether we are speaking of our sister-teams 20 strong across North America and Europe, our volunteers that work side-by-side on each mission, or the families that give of their time and talents and volunteer together to help Operation Walk continue to restore mobility: it is truly a family affair.
Below we feature a family that traveled together during our most recent mission to the Philippines. Thank you for sharing your experiences and your stories.
Jeff and Sarina Parks
My daughter, Sarina, has often expressed an interest in pursuing a career in healthcare. As a parent, I sometimes find myself questioning whether to encourage or discourage this path, especially after experiencing the challenges of the profession firsthand. Reflecting on my own journey into healthcare, I remember that my motivation was rooted in a deep desire to help others during their most difficult times. Becoming a physician felt like the most meaningful way to make a positive impact on people’s lives.
The Philippines marked my second trip with Operation Walk, the first being to Tanzania. These missions have been incredible experiences, where a diverse team of experts—surgeons, nurses, physical therapists, surgical technicians, anesthesiologists, logistics coordinators, and sterile processing staff—all come together with one goal: to improve lives through the application of medical science and compassionate care. I knew that if Sarina could witness this, she might gain clarity on whether a career in healthcare was truly right for her. I was thrilled when Sarina decided to apply for the Philippines’ mission as a student volunteer. She approached the application process thoughtfully, even devising a way to contribute meaningfully to the team’s mission. Her idea was well-received, and she was selected to join the trip.
In the Philippines, I had no doubt that our team would ensure Sarina’s safety, and was eager for her to embrace this opportunity for growth. Her experiences during the trip far exceeded my expectations. From pre-operative preparations to post-operative care, and all the behind-the-scenes efforts, she saw firsthand how we all work together to help those in dire need. I believe she returned home not only with a deeper understanding of healthcare but also as a more compassionate and mature individual.
Thank you, Operation Walk Los Angeles, for giving Sarina this transformative experience.
-Dr. Jeff Parks