Maria Alicia has been suffering from arthritis for several years and had been depending on a walker to move around her home for the past twelve months. During Operation Walk’s most recent visit to Antigua, she received a left knee replacement. Maria Alicia’s recovery progressed rapidly, with her moving from a walker, to crutches, and finally to a cane. During her physical therapy, Kyle Baldwin PT, noticed the identifying sticker on the pink cane in her hand. He quickly moved to tell her about OpWalk Angel Winnie Crawford’s story and how she had collected the very cane Maria Alicia was using.
Winnie has been collecting canes, walkers, crutches, and wheelchairs for over sixteen years. She has been a major contributor to Operation Walk LA because she understands what it means to have limited mobility.
We sent Winnie Maria Alicia’s picture and told her the story of her cane and how it was helping Maria Alicia after her knee replacement. Here is Winnie’s reply:
“Thank you ladies for all sent information regarding your recent trip. I really like to think about you and also see the amazing results of your hard work. Your emails and photos this time, were over the top. I did see Kyle B. after his return, so much more first hand info was terrific I will always treasure “meeting ” my new friend, Marie Alicia, Cami. I can share her happiness, thanks to you.
And so, I came home and on my front porch were three crutches.
Next OpWalk mission here they come. ”
-Winnie Crowley
