It is with great pleasure that SpineHope announces a new global outreach effort in the Ukraine. In collaboration with host surgeon, Dr. Igor Kurilets (International Neurosurgery Center in Kiev), and the nonprofits, Razom for Ukraine and the National Foundation for Scoliosis in Ukraine, we will be working together in efforts to build a pediatric spine program for Ukrainian children suffering from severe spinal deformities and other complex spine conditions. In addition to providing charity spine surgery and post-op care to children in need, this program will offer training and education to surgeons, medical staff, and medical students in the region on advanced surgical techniques and spine safety protocols.

Our inaugural surgical trip took place October 7-13, 2019 at the Stryi Central District Hospital. The trip was a considerable success. Thank you to the following SpineHope volunteers who made this trip possible:

• Matthew Geck, Spine Surgeon

• Luke Tomycz, Neurosurgeon

• Jorge Guerrero, Anesthesiologist

• Brandon Black, Medtronic Implant/Product Representative

• Bridges Gordy, NuVasive Neuromonitoring Tech

• Kimberley King, Co-Onsite Coordinator

• Anya Siryk, Co-Onsite Coordinator/Translator

We are deeply appreciative of the volunteers who donated their time and resources to join the SpineHope team as well as the host hospital team, all dedicated to launching a sustainable program that will impact Ukrainian children for years to come. A special thank you to Medtronic (donated critical implants and biologics for this trip), as well as NuVasive (donated neuromonitoring services).

We look forward to the beginning of a transformational partnership!