We – Dr. William Long, Paulina Andujo, Matt Sandusky, and Lisa Fujimoto-Yamaguchi – recently returned from our pre-trip to Cuba, an important step in preparing for our upcoming mission later this year. These pre-trips are essential because they allow us to make sure everything is in place so that when the full team arrives, we can immediately focus on what matters most: the patients.
Although we have been to the Fructuoso Rodríguez Orthopedic Hospital in Havana, Cuba, many times before, we always conduct a pre-trip to confirm that everything is in working order. This includes carefully reviewing X-rays to ensure we bring the correct implant types and sizes for our patients. While we were there, we toured the hospital, made sure all necessary equipment was functioning properly, and spent meaningful time with the local medical team. All of this helps us prepare thoroughly so we can deliver the best possible care.
One of the highlights of the trip was reconnecting with Dr. Roberto Balmaseda, Orthopedic surgeon and hospital director. Dr. Balmaseda has been a dedicated partner of Operation Walk since our very first mission to Cuba nearly 30 years ago. His ongoing leadership, support, and deep commitment to this work are vital to making each mission possible. We are truly grateful for the strong partnership we’ve built with him over the years.
We also used this visit to finalize logistics for the team, researching hotels, restaurants, and ensuring all the details are in place to keep everyone comfortable and supported during the mission.
We are thankful to everyone who helps make this work possible and are excited to return to Cuba later this year to continue helping patients in need.
-Lisa Fujimoto
Team Leader