At the age of 10, Sandy was run over in an auto accident. That accident changed her life. She was taken to the public hospital where she acquired an infection, and they performed an amputation below Sandy's left knee. Since the accident she has used an external prosthesis to help her walk.  

This fall, Sandy, a 34-year-old from Honduras and Auxiliary Nurse for One World Surgery, received reconstruction of her left knee ligament in which now allows Sandy a better fit with her prosthesis.  

"I am in the process of recovery and undergoing physical therapy. I can already walk so much better. I am so grateful to One World Surgery, Dr. Antunez and all my colleagues!"

I first found out about One World Surgery’s mission from a presentation by the Dalys at an Optum partnership meeting in 2018. I immediately knew I wanted to be a part - to help in some way.  

Five mission trips to the Dominican Republic later, I still get just as excited before each trip. It is medicine in its purest form - helping people get needed healthcare - those who need it the most.  

I look forward to the camaraderie on the trip - a rare opportunity to work with wonderful clinicians and staff from all Optum CDOs, as well as their family members who join them. Seeing families experience a medical mission together is very rewarding.

Claire, Darren and all the staff at OWS DR have become like family to me and seeing them each trip is icing on an already good cake.

For all these reasons I am grateful I came and continune to come to the Dominican Republic to work and serve with One World Surgery.

Dr. Bryan Demarie