Transforming Lives: Indiana Medical Nonprofit Gifts Hope with Free Surgeries for Dominican Republic's Children with Scoliosis and Other Orthopedic Conditions
Carmel, Indiana, August 11th, 2023 — Imagine a child's life transformed from pain and societal exclusion to hope and acceptance. This July, the Indiana non-profit Pediatric Orthopedic Project (POP) did just that, embarking on its 11th mission trip to the Dominican Republic, a nation where many children lack access to essential medical care. Led by the passionate Carmel locals, Drs. Enrico & Madelyn Stazzone, POP's mission is not just to provide life-changing surgeries but also to empower local medical communities.
From July 8th-16th, 2023, eight more children experienced this transformation firsthand. Seven received corrective surgeries for scoliosis and one for cerebral palsy. Today, they're back home, thriving and looking forward to brighter futures. This year, the POP team had 13 Hoosier volunteers out of 18 total.
Dr. Madelyn Stazzone poignantly remarked, “These children, burdened by their medical conditions, often face societal exclusion and are even denied education. Our surgical interventions not only alleviate their physical pain but also uplift their spirits, enabling them to flourish in society.”
Since its inception in 2012, POP, a non-profit (501c3) organization, has been a beacon of hope, providing free surgeries for over 531 children, primarily those with scoliosis. These surgeries, performed by a dedicated team of volunteers, have been pivotal in changing the trajectory of these children's lives. What's even more heartwarming? No salaries; just pure dedication.
Discover the heartwarming stories of the lives touched by POP here.
Stay with us for more updates and events that promise to make a difference.
In the News
POP has Earned Candid’s Highest Seal of Transparency
Candid (formally known as GuideStar) is the world’s largest source of information on nonprofit organizations. The Platinum Seal of transparency is the highest level of recognition and puts POP among the top 0.1% of charities in the nation in terms of transparency! It is a testament that the foundation shares crucial information with the public regarding our goals, strategies, capabilities, achievements and progress, which serves as evidence of the difference, that POP is making in the world.
As a result, potential donors, grant makers, peers, and online audiences can access in-depth financial information about our organization which will help them make an educated decision regarding a contribution that will support our mission: to operate and treat needy children with orthopedic conditions like scoliosis in the developing world.
Check out POP’s Candid profile here
Co-Founder of POP, Dr. Madelyn Stazzone receives Jefferson Award for Multiplying Good
POP’s very own Mady Stazzone is making headlines! This month's Jefferson Award for Multiplying Good shines brightly on Mady, the visionary behind POP. Her selfless dedication to providing free orthopedic surgeries for underprivileged children is making an impact in the world! Watch her story of compassion and courage. Check out her press release statement as well!
Board Member Missy Shopshire's New Book 'Forces at Work' Hits Best Seller List, Raising $830 for POP
We are thrilled to announce that our esteemed board member, Missy Shopshire, has recently released her much-anticipated book, "Forces at Work," which has quickly climbed the ranks to become a best seller. Not only has this achievement garnered well-deserved recognition for Missy, but it has also proven to be a remarkable opportunity for our organization, POP. Through Missy's book sales, we were able to raise an impressive $830 in support of our mission and initiatives. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Missy and express our sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to this success.
Click here for Missy’s new book!
TopGolf Fundraiser June 1, 2023
Thanks to all who attended. We raised over $8200!
POP TopGolf Fundraiser Tickets
POP Featured in the Christmas Issue of “Catholic Moment”
InCycle Fundraiser Was a Huge Success!
Special thanks to Cathy Miller (featured below on left), owner of InCycle who on October 21st, 2022 hosted a cycling event for POP. The house was packed and after an hour of cycling, all enjoyed food, drinks while partaking in a silent auction and raffle. Our sincere gratitude to Andrea Sartorius (featured below on right) for organizing. This event raised over $8,300 for POP!!!
