“My name is Temidayo Aderibigbe (Temi for short) and I was born in the UK to my two Nigerian parents but raised primarily in Simi Valley, CA. I grew up playing soccer religiously and still have a massive passion for the sport, though I’m mostly just watching these days.
I went to Yale University for my undergraduate degree and New York Medical College for medical school. I always had a big interest in medicine growing up, discovered orthopedic surgery early in medical school and went on to complete an orthopedic surgery residency at Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia.
I’ve always had a big interest in medical missions, and I’m thrilled to have received the Dr. Lawrence Dorr Operation Walk Scholarship instituted by Paula Paulus. This opportunity will allow me to join Operation Walk in Havana.
I’ve been blessed with an education that’s given me the skills and tools to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. At the same time, growing up with the mentality of an immigrant has instilled in me a drive, resilience, and sense of responsibility to serve others who may not have the same opportunities. That combination—privilege balanced with perspective—fuels my commitment to using medicine as a vehicle for impact and service.
I’m currently doing an Adult Reconstruction surgical fellowship at Keck Hospital at USC, where my training is focused on complex hip and knee arthroplasty. My long-term vision is to build a career that balances excellence in clinical practice with opportunities for mission work, so that patients—whether in my local community or in underserved areas across the world—can regain the independence and dignity that mobility provides. Can’t wait to get started!”
Temi Aderibigbe, MD