OUR STORY

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 Walk South is a compassionate volunteer-run medical humanitarian organization with a noble mission to gift mobility to those in need through life-changing total joint replacement surgeries at no cost. Founded in 2018 by three individuals – Thomas Fleetwood, Dr. Stephen Smith, and Katie Smith – the organization was born out of their desire to use their skills to alleviate the suffering of impoverished people disabled by joint-related conditions.

Specializing in total knee replacements, Walk South undertakes week-long medical missions in underserved countries. These missions are made possible by generous donations of implants, surgical materials, medications, and recovery equipment from Thomas Fleetwood's team at Crosslink Orthopedics, local hospitals, medical vendors, and private donors.

In countries with limited government and social assistance, where survival hinges on the ability to work, these surgeries are truly life-changing. Before surgery, many patients are debilitated, unable to work and provide for their families. However, after receiving the gift of mobility through joint replacements, these patients can return to work, provide for their families, and actively contribute to their communities.

Selecting surgical candidates is a crucial aspect of Walk South's mission, which is entrusted to a local orthopedic surgeon. The goal for each medical mission is to provide new knees for 30-40 patients, selected based on the severity of their condition and the extent of their disability. 

Beyond providing immediate medical assistance, Walk South also focuses on educating local healthcare professionals during their international surgical missions. In-country orthopedic surgeons, orthopedics fellows, nurses, and others are taught advanced treatments and surgical techniques for knee diseases, leaving a lasting contribution to patient care in developing countries. The organization also ensures that unused donated medical supplies, implants, walkers, crutches, and other equipment are left behind for the local patients, further supporting the communities they serve.

Driven by a vision to expand their services globally, Walk South continues to make a significant impact on the lives of those in need, instilling hope and transforming mobility for those who once faced adversity due to joint-related conditions.