The Steps2Walk Program reminded me of a quote by Doug Place, Chief Marketing Officer of Nando’s Africa, Middle East and South Asia: “It is our privilege to fix things.” In this case, it is our privilege to transform lives for the better.
From 10 to 14 June 2024, Windhoek, Namibia, was transformed by the Steps2Walk Program, an initiative dedicated to restoring dignity and improving the quality of life for Namibian children through life-changing surgical interventions. Medical professionals at the event expressed their commitment to these noble goals, highlighting the profound impact on the community.
Steps2Walk, an esteemed international non-profit organisation, focuses on providing surgical care for foot and ankle deformities in underserved regions worldwide. The organisation also prioritises educating orthopaedic surgeons on various treatment alternatives, empowering local medical professionals to address pressing healthcare needs within their communities.
Founded in 2000 by orthopaedic surgeon Dr Mark Myerson, Steps2Walk (formerly known as The Foot and Ankle Association) emerged from the urgent need for ongoing and advanced training opportunities for international foot and ankle surgeons. Dr Myerson envisioned equipping orthopaedic surgeons in underserved countries with the necessary knowledge and skills to treat lower limb disabilities effectively, enabling patients to reclaim their lives.
This year, the Steps2Walk Program returned to its original location at Windhoek Central Hospital, fostering collaboration between state and private hospitals, endorsed by the Ministry of Health and Social Services. The week-long event commenced on Monday, 10 June, with lectures and conferences attended by local and regional doctors. Patient examinations followed on Tuesday, 11 June, culminating in 21 life-changing surgeries performed on children and one adult on 12 and 13 June at both Windhoek Central Hospital and Lady Pohamba Private Hospital. The Program concluded on Friday, 14 June, with case presentations and ward visits to patients at Lady Pohamba Private Hospital and Katutura State Hospital.
The dedicated team for the week included Program Chair Dr Mark Myerson (Denver, USA), Program Co-Chairs Dr TK Majojo (Namibia) and Jacques Jonck (Namibia), and the international faculty members such as Dr Andy Molloy (Liverpool, UK), Dr Anish Kadakia (Chicago, USA), Dr Jose Sanhudo (Brazil), Program Director Dr Shuyuan Li (Denver, USA), and Program Coordinator Dr Joshua Ramirez (USA), along with international participants Dr Mohammad Mutawakkil (Chicago, USA) and Dr Roshmi Bhattacharya (Denver, USA).
In addition to their educational endeavours, Dr Myerson and his colleagues actively participate in humanitarian programs worldwide, conducting surgeries and sharing invaluable expertise. The overarching goal of Steps2Walk is to deliver humanitarian foot and ankle care in countries where the need is most urgent, and resources are limited. While immediate surgical interventions enhance an individual's ability to stand, walk, and regain independence, the true vision of Steps2Walk lies in creating sustainable solutions through the education and training of local surgeons, multiplying the impact of orthopaedic care worldwide.
A videographer, Andre Nel and I met a little boy named Nande, one of the Steps2Walk operation beneficiaries, at the entrance of the Windhoek Central Hospital while filming interviews. Warm and friendly, he shared his love for soccer and his favourite player, Cristiano Ronaldo. Nande's story is just one of many that demonstrate how initiatives like Steps2Walk enable a better future for children.
This program beautifully showcased the love Namibian organisations have for their communities through the support garnered from local Namibian companies and individuals. For example, the Shoprite/Checkers Group provided food parcels and goody bags to support the patients, participants, stakeholders, and most importantly, the healthcare professionals who are the true miracle workers.
The Gondwana Care Trust supported the filming of the entire Steps2Walk journey, sharing the amazing work and its profound impact on many lives. By raising awareness, they aim to inspire other like-minded organisations to support this cause through various means.
For more information about Steps2Walk, their life-changing initiatives, and how to support them, please visit www.steps2walk.org.
Author: Ndinelao Shikemeni
Photos: Gondwana Collection Namibia