When Isabella Lopez was born, her neonatologist quickly noticed signs of concern and referred her to an orthopaedic specialist. The diagnosis—clubfoot and arthrogryposis—meant Isabella would face significant challenges with joint movement and mobility. For her mother, Claudia Munoz, the news was overwhelming. “I knew she would need special care,” Munoz recalled, “but I didn’t know much about her conditions or what they would mean for her life.”

Unable to find affordable, high-quality care in Mexico, the family turned to the Luskin Orthopaedic Institute for Children’s (LuskinOIC’s) International Children’s Program, thanks to a referral from Isabella’s orthopedist. Confident in LuskinOIC’s expertise, they made the journey from Mexicali to Los Angeles for treatment. With help from family members in the area who provided housing, the Munoz family began regular visits—each one a step forward. Although Claudia initially worried about missing work and the cost of care, those fears were eased when she learned all of Isabella’s treatment would be provided free of charge.

Over time, the support they received extended far beyond the clinic walls. The LuskinOIC team not only improved Isabella’s mobility but also empowered her parents with knowledge and confidence. From expert surgeons to the compassionate staff in the International Children’s Program, everyone treated the family with warmth and respect. “They treat Isabella, my husband, and me like we are part of their family,” Munoz said. “I personally had never experienced this kind of attention and compassion, and I’m very grateful for that.”