About the Mission
Dr. Ted Belanger of Texas Back Institute, along with his dedicated team from USA, has been instrumental in providing life-changing spine deformity surgeries to patients in Ethiopia since 2010. With a commitment to excellence and compassion, Dr. Belanger and his team have made a significant impact on the lives of many individuals facing complex spinal conditions. Over the years, Dr. Ted Belanger and his team have successfully operated on over 235 spine deformity patients in Ethiopia.
Transforming Lives: Dr. Ted and Dr. Serena's Record-Breaking Mission in Ethiopia.
We are excited to announce the success of Dr. Ted, Dr. Serena, and their team's recent mission to Ethiopia, which took place from May 13 to June 5, 2024. With the help of over 20 volunteer health professionals, they achieved remarkable milestones that will have a lasting impact on the lives of many.
Mission Highlights:
50 Successful Spine Surgeries: Our team of experts performed 50 life-changing spine surgeries, bringing hope and healing to patients in need.
Training for Local Professionals: More than 40 Ethiopian health professionals were trained, enhancing the capacity of our local healthcare system.
This mission has set a new record, demonstrating the incredible potential of teamwork and dedication in transforming healthcare.
Dr. Ted’s Mission changed the life of an entire family!
Yishak and Loza are siblings with severe scoliosis. Their parents tried every opportunity to get them treatment since childhood, but couldn’t find anyone to help them in Ethiopia. Few years ago, they came to our clinic and was diagnosed with scoliosis. Without surgery this could progress and become life-threatening. In October 2022, they both underwent major spine surgery by, Dr. Ted and his team and are standing upright. Their parents couldn’t hold back their tears looking at them after surgery. For the first time, Yishak is taller than his dad! Please see the short video of the 2022 camapaign.
The Team
Theodore Belanger, MD
Orthopedic Surgeon | Lead Surgeon
Dr. Belanger is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon specializing in neck and back disorders, degenerative conditions, disc disorders, spinal deformity, scoliosis, and spine trauma. He completed his medical education at the University of Wisconsin and pursued residency training at Michigan State University/Kalamazoo Center for Medical Studies. Dr. Belanger further honed his expertise through a Spine Surgery and Spinal Cord Injury Fellowship at Case Western Reserve University. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and a member of the Scoliosis Research Society and the Cervical Spine Research Society. Dr. Ted is also a partner physician of the Texas Back Institute, holding leadership positions including membership in the Executive and Peer Review Committees. Additionally, he serves as the Co-director of the Spine Fellowship Program, overseeing its success with over 150 graduates. Dr. Ted is the Medical Director of Complex Spine Surgery at Medical City Plano Hospital.
Walter J Evans
Spine Consultant | Lead Coordinator
With over two decades of surgical experience, Walter has transitioned from a dedicated hospital employee to a respected industry consultant, leaving an indelible mark on the medical landscape through his commitment to excellence. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Walter's passion for humanitarian causes, particularly the Ethiopia project, drives him to make a tangible difference in others' lives. His unwavering dedication to the mission, coupled with his efforts to foster cultural understanding through learning Amharic, showcases his genuine commitment to service. As the lead coordinator, Walter ensures the success of the mission with precision and dedication, empowering the team to deliver exceptional care to those in need and serving as an inspiration to all.
Serena Hu, MD
Orthopedic Surgeon | Lead Surgeon
Dr. Serena S. Hu is the Chief of the Orthopedic Spine Service at Stanford Hospital and is also Professor and Vice Chair. She holds a joint appointment with the Department of Neurosurgery. She is immediate past president of the Scoliosis Research Society, the foremost professional association for those of care for patients with spinal deformities. She obtained her medical degree from McGill University in Montreal, completed her orthopedic surgery training at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York and her Spine and Scoliosis Fellowship at Rancho los Amigos in California.
Support our mission
You can support our mission by donating to help cover the costs of surgeries, and implants. Your contribution can make a difference in the lives of those in need and bring hope to individuals facing spinal deformities.
