01/15/2026
Sometimes care goes far beyond borders. 💙
During a recent Hands International PAGE medical mission in Trinidad, our very own Elliott Leitman, M.D. met Reinette—a patient living with chronic knee pain and severely restricted mobility in a region where access to advanced orthopedic care and joint replacement surgery is extremely limited. Without the necessary equipment or financial means, surgery simply wasn’t an option.
Reinette’s pain affected her independence, made everyday tasks difficult, and threatened her ability to fully participate in work, family life, and her community.
Recognizing both the medical need and the lack of available resources, Dr. Leitman made her a promise:
“If you can come to Delaware, I’ll do your surgery.”
Last month, that promise became reality when Reinette traveled to our First State Surgery Center in Newark, DE to receive a charity knee replacement surgery performed by Dr. Leitman. The goal was simple but life-changing—to restore her mobility, independence, and ability to thrive.
As an added benefit, Reinette also received a Zimmer Biomet Persona IQ Smart Implant, allowing Dr. Leitman to remotely monitor her recovery through the MyMobility® app—even after she returned home to Trinidad. From the operating room to recovery across the miles, her care continues.
Today, Reinette is on the path to reclaiming her independence—and yes, she’s excited to return to doing something she loves most: dancing. 💃
Stories like Reinette’s remind us why mission-based charity care matters: restoring movement, dignity, and opportunity—one patient at a time. We’re incredibly proud of Dr. Leitman and inspired by Reinette’s resilience. ❤️🦵