For years, Ramses’s family searched for a specialist who could help with his limb deficiency. Answers were hard to come by—until a cousin living in El Centro told them about LuskinOIC. That recommendation led them to our Border Clinic in Mexicali, where Ramses was seen through our International Children’s Program (ICP). From there, he was quickly referred to Dr. Anthony Scaduto, LuskinOIC’s CEO and a leading expert in pediatric orthopaedics.

Starting treatment was a big step, not just physically but emotionally. Ramses’s mom shared that he was nervous about starting kindergarten, unsure of how he’d be received or how he’d manage day-to-day tasks. But with care and support, things began to shift. “It was a little uncomfortable at first,” she said, “but now he’s feeling more confident—and he’s actually a class leader.” That confidence has changed the way he sees himself, and it’s given him room to grow socially and emotionally.

When asked what he’s most excited to do with his hands, Ramses has a simple, sweet answer: “I want to be able to play with my friends.” That goal—something many might take for granted—captures the heart of why access to specialized care matters. For Ramses, it’s not just about treatment; it’s about building a future full of connection, confidence, and play.

Mateo is a bright and curious student who loves learning—and he’s always one of the first to finish his classwork. Rather than sitting idle, he jumps at the chance to help his classmates, earning a reputation as both a fast learner and a kind friend. His eagerness to support others is just one of the many things that make him stand out.

For the past two years, Mateo has also been a patient at LuskinOIC through the International Children’s Program (ICP). In January, he underwent his first surgery to begin correcting a leg deformity that had made movement more difficult. Despite the challenges, Mateo faced the experience with the same positivity he brings to the classroom.

His journey isn’t over yet. LuskinOIC CEO Dr. Scaduto continues to monitor Mateo’s progress closely, ensuring his leg continues to grow and strengthen properly. With the right care and support, Mateo is not only on track to thrive physically—he’s also staying true to what he loves most: growing, learning, and helping his friends along the way.

Born with multiple deformities in her feet and spine, Valentina has faced more challenges in her young life than many do in a lifetime. Yet, her resilience and determination shine through every step of her journey. With the unwavering support of the International Children’s Program at LuskinOIC, what once seemed like distant dreams are now within reach.

Valentina began her medical journey at just 2 years old, undergoing surgeries to correct her foot deformities and starting treatment for her curved spine. Each milestone has brought her closer to better health, and her most recent checkup with Dr. Mauricio Silva on March 3rd marked another encouraging chapter in her progress. The care and expertise she’s received have made a profound impact on her quality of life.

Thanks to supporters like you, Valentina is not only healing physically but is also growing in confidence and ambition. She dreams of becoming a veterinarian one day—and of visiting New York! With continued support and access to life-changing care, Valentina is well on her way to making both dreams a reality.

For the past five years, Alysson has been a dedicated patient of the International Children’s Program (ICP) at Luskin Orthopaedic Institute for Children. Her doctors closely monitored her spinal deformity with biannual checkups, carefully watching for any changes. When her condition progressed more rapidly than expected, Dr. Bowen made the decision to move forward with surgery in October 2022—a choice that would transform Alysson’s life.

Since the operation, the results have been remarkable. Alysson no longer experiences the chronic pain that once affected her daily life, and her spine shows a clear and significant correction. Her mother shares that beyond the physical changes, Alysson has grown more confident—especially at school, where she now feels more comfortable and engaged.

That newfound confidence has carried into new passions. This year, Alysson joined a dance class at school and is already preparing for her first spring recital. After years of facing physical challenges, she’s now embracing new opportunities, moving freely, and dancing alongside her friends—proof of just how far she’s come with the right care and support.

For more information, please contact Mary Beth Perrine at mperrine@mednet.ucla.edu or (213)-742-1534. Funds raised from the Swing for Kids Golf Classic will allow LuskinOIC to care for even more patients, with proceeds going directly to patient care through the LuskinOIC Care for Kids Fund. Contributions are tax deductible as allowed by law, less the value of any goods or services provided. Federal Tax ID: 95-1644029