Ohana One Annual Report 2022
Mentor & Multiply
Our work is not limited to single mission trips, but to establishing long-term sustainable surgical training programs utilizing mentorship relationships and advanced technology. We strive to be a trusted advisor to the NGOs we partner with, supporting them in attaining their missions. "I mentor because I find it so gratifying to know that I can help patients I will never meet through the eyes and hands of the surgeons I train" Marc Levitt, MD"The surprising benefit for me was that my techniques evolved and developed as a result of this international work. Graham Watson, MD"Feeling the appreciation and impact of my role as a surgical mentor continues to be one of the most fulfilling aspects of my medical career." Marshall Partington, MDCaring for the patient helps one patient. Training the surgeon helps thousands of patients.
Our Mission
Ohana One aims to bridge global gaps in surgical care by providing access to advanced surgical training and mentorship programs, innovative technology, and educational resources to developing areas.
Our Vision
The lifetime impact of a surgeon in a developed country is an estimated 10,000 patients during their entire career. In 10 years, if we have 1,000 surgeons enrolled in our mentor program, those new surgeons can go on to operate on 10 million people worldwide— closing the surgical gap.
Dear Friend of Ohana One,
I am delighted to present to you the 2022 Annual Report, showcasing Ohana One’s significant achievements, innovative initiatives, and unwavering commitment to transforming surgical care around the world.
At Ohana One, we have long recognized the invaluable role of mentorship in shaping one's career and fostering professional growth. Our core belief in the power of mentorship has led us to marry this concept with cutting-edge technology through our revolutionary Surgical Sight Program. This program has not only brought mentorship to the forefront but has also revolutionized the way surgical skills are imparted and shared globally.
In 2022, the Surgical Sight Program reached new heights, expanding its presence to an astounding 48 countries and serving over 130 surgeons. Using smart glasses, we have facilitated innovative, collaborative learning between mentors and mentees, as well as peer-to-peer knowledge exchange. This technology has proven to be a game-changer, enabling an unprecedented level of engagement and expertise sharing among surgeons worldwide.
We take immense pride in witnessing the transformative impact of the Surgical Sight Program on patient care. The knowledge gained, and skills honed by surgeons trained with Ohana One are being put into practice in their home countries, ensuring that children and adults receive the highest quality of care and paving the way for brighter futures. It is a joy to see the tangible difference our collaborative learning approach has made in improving healthcare outcomes both locally and globally.
Furthermore, we embarked on a new initiative focused on mental wellness for surgeons, recognizing the immense pressure and challenges they face in their demanding profession. By providing comprehensive support and resources for mental well-being, we aim to foster a healthy and resilient surgical community that can thrive both personally and professionally, in turn resulting in enhanced patient care around the world.
In addition to these remarkable milestones, we were thrilled to resume in-person missions in Ethiopia and Mozambique in 2022. These missions allowed us to directly engage with communities in need, extend our expertise, and make a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals. The opportunity to work hand-in-hand with local surgeons and healthcare providers reaffirmed our commitment to building sustainable surgical capacity and empowering communities to take charge of their own healthcare.
None of these accomplishments would have been possible without the unwavering support and dedication of you, our supporters, our dedicated volunteer mentors, and the entire Ohana One family. Your belief in our vision and commitment to our mission has been the driving force behind our success.
As we delve into the pages of the 2022 Annual Report, we invite you to celebrate with us the strides we have made and the lives we have touched. Your continued support and partnership inspire us to push the boundaries of what is possible and create a future where surgical care knows no boundaries.
Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey.
Warm regards,
David Kulber, MD
President, Ohana One Board of Directors mentor
/ˈmenˌtôr,ˈmen(t)ər/ • noun An experienced and trusted adviser.David Kulber, MD Founder & President
My mentor story begins when I first met Dr. Myles Cohen as a general surgery resident at Cedars Sinai. His reputation went well beyond that of a superb hand surgeon. He was known as a person of integrity and principle, guided by the pursuit of excellence in everything he did, no matter how menial the task.
Read More
Jennifer Bepple, MD Digital Health Consultant
My mentor story begins when I was a resident and mentee of Dr. Kurt McCammon in the Eastern Virginia Medical School urology program. He generously shared his extensive surgical knowledge, his compassionate and friendly approach to bedside manner, and his ability to manage life's various demands professionally and personally.
Read More
Dr. Dimuthu Tennakoon
Sri Lanka
Mission Trip
Mozambique & Ethiopia
Dr. Giulia Brisighelli
South Africa
Dr. Gilles Natchagande
Benin
Ohana One Homebase
Board & Staff
Helping at Home
Consulting
Humanitarian Crisis
Ukraine
Partnerships
Nigeria
Dr. Pramila Shakya
Nepal
Dr. Giselle Coelho
Brazil
Ohana One has a presence in 48 countries at the end of 2022. We have collected stories from surgeons across the globe who have been impacted by Ohana One's medical education training.
Explore Stories
Click to Explore
location_on Maputo, Mozambique
Ohana One Mission Trip:
Transforming Lives Through Surgical Care
Throughout the past three years, the Surgical Sight Smart Glass Program allowed Ohana One mentors to maintain contact with local mentee surgeons and provide ongoing training. The mission trip to Mozambique presented an opportunity to further this vital work. These missions, which impact countless lives, would not be possible without the generous support of donors and volunteers who contribute to these trips.The Ohana One team, consisting entirely of 19 dedicated volunteers, served 50 patients, and performed 17 surgeries during the mission trip, forever transforming the lives of others.
Fatima, a single mother and sole provider for her two children, as well as her sister’s children, had been struggling with macromastia for years. This condition caused chronic pain in her neck, back, and shoulder, severely impacting her daily life. The Ohana One team performed a reduction mammoplasty on Fatima, providing immediate relief from her pain. This life-changing surgery allowed Fatima to focus on her work and family without the burden of constant discomfort, significantly improving their overall quality of life. Although Fatima was incredibly nervous about the surgery, the Ohana family assured her that she was in the best care and she was so happy immediately following the procedure. Notably, Fatima received this surgery free of charge due to donations from our supporters and friends.
Another patient, Walter, suffered severe burns to his neck and hand due to an accidental workplace explosion. The burns rendered his neck and hand non-functional due to contracture. The Ohana One team, led by Dr. Pedro Santos, the very first mentee of the Surgical Sight Program, executed a complex surgery to restore functionality to Walter’s hand. The procedure required utmost precision and skill to avoid further damage. Thanks to this surgery, Walter can now regain the use of his hand and return to the workplace, restoring his dignity and ability to support his family. Like Fatima, Walter received this life-changing surgery at no cost to him because of mission trip donations.
These stories represent just a glimpse of the immense impact that Ohana One's mission trips have on individuals, families, and entire communities.
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location_on Cotonou, Benin
Dr. Gilles Natchagande
Urology Surgeon
Centre National Hospitalier et HKM NGO IVU Med
Dr. Giles Natchagange:
Revolutionizing Urological Care in Benin
Dr. Gilles Natchagande, has significantly enhanced his surgical skills and confidence in performing Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) procedures, thanks to the Surgical Sight Program. PCNLs are minimally invasive procedures used to remove kidney stones when the body is unable to pass them naturally. With the rising demand for PCNLs in Benin, Dr. Natchagande’s mentorship relationships with Dr. Graham Watson and Dr. Kymora Scotland has proven to be invaluable
Dr. Natchagande vividly remembers a patient he will never forget. The patient was a four-year-old boy who required a PCNL. Dr. Watson virtually assisted Dr. Natchagande during a successful bilateral PCNL surgery on the child. Two years later, the boy’s mother returned to express her gratitude to both Dr. Natchagande and Dr. Watson, creating a moment that will forever stay with him. Dr. Natchagande takes pride in the progress he has made in his surgical skills and remains optimistic about the continued positive impact of smart glass technology on his community.
In 2023, Dr. Natchagande anticipates performing PCNL procedures on 70-100 individuals, marking an increase from the previous year. We at Ohana One are thrilled to support Dr. Natchagande’s surgical training and eagerly await the accomplishments he will achieve this year. Read More
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location_on Sao Paulo, Brazil
Dr. Giselle Coelho
Pediatric Neurosurgeon
Santa Casa Hospital and Sabará Hospital NGO Neurokids
Dr. Giselle Coelho: Transforming Children’s Lives in Brazil
Dr. Giselle Coelho’s fascination with neuroanatomy and the physiology of brain function led her to the discovery of her life’s purpose: neurosurgery. In her opinion, the most rewarding aspect of being a neurosurgeon is the ability to transform the lives of children by treating life-threatening pathologies. Currently, Dr. Coelho is working on mastering a procedure, called Third Ventriculostomy combined with choroid plexus coagulation using flexible neuroendoscopy, with the guidance of her mentor, Dr. Michael Dewan.
Dr. Coelho emphasized that hydrocephalus affects 2 out of every 10,000 children in South America, making this project crucial in reaching a significant number of children with this diagnosis in Brazil and creating a noticeable social and economic impact in the country.
With the support of Dr. Dewan, Dr. Coelho successfully treated a 4-month-old boy diagnosed with hydrocephalus, experiencing a progressive increase in head circumference and developmental delays. The child underwent an endoscopic third ventriculostomy and choroid plexus coagulation, resulting in significant improvement within 30 days after the surgical procedure.
Dr. Coelho expressed that the Ohana One Surgical Sight Smart Glass Program has significantly enhanced her surgical training and continues to do so. It serves as an important complement to in-person training, enabling high-quality follow-up and distance learning. The program promotes continuing medical education, especially in the discussion of complex cases. Read More
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location_on Johannesburg, South Africa
Guilia Brisighelli
General + Colorectal Surgery
Chris Hai Bargwanath Academic Hospital NGO Surgeons for Little Lives
Dr. Guilia Brigshelli: Addressing a need for pediatric surgical care in South Africa
Dr. Guilia Brisighelli chose to specialize in pediatrics because she believed it would allow her to establish a strong connection with patients and positively impact their outcomes. Under the mentorship of Dr. Marc Levitt, she has focused on mastering Posterior Sagittal Anorectoplasty (PSARP) procedures for patients with anorectal malformations. Dr. Brisighelli now feels more confident in performing these specific procedures and successfully completes around 20 PSARPs and 12 pull-throughs per year. However, there is a waitlist of approximately 80 patients, highlighting the significant demand for these surgeries, especially when compared to high-income countries.
South Africa is ranked #53 in terms of best healthcare and has approximately 11 surgeons per 100,000 people in a population of 59.39 million people. The country is experiencing a large health inequality gap. Poverty levels in the country have been growing at an alarming rate since 2015, increasing the difficulty for accessing affordable healthcare.
Dr. Brisighelli says that seeing the impact of her surgical care is “intrinsic with giving proper colorectal follow-up to patients.” During her work relationship with Dr. Levitt, which started 8 years ago, he taught her the importance of long term follow up, and in sharing knowledge and uplifting others. She shared that in her practice she is trying to do the same and believes that many families (and many other surgeons) are benefitting from it.
We are proud to have Dr. Brisighelli in our Ohana and we look forward to following her surgical training journey.
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location_on Kirtipur, Nepal
Pramila Shakya
Plastics + Reconstructive Surgery
Kirtipur Hospital NGO ReSurge
Dr. Pramila Shakya:
Healing children in Nepal
Since childhood, Dr. Pramila Shakya had a dream of becoming a doctor. She chose reconstructive surgery because she finds it rewarding to witness immediate changes in patients. Dr. Shakya has been a part of the Surgical Sight Smart Glass Program since 2020 and is currently working alongside her mentor, Dr. Lori Howell, on cases involving cleft lip, cleft palate, and craniofacial conditions.
Nepal is ranked #61 in terms of global healthcare, with a population of 30 million people and only 3 surgeons per 100,000 individuals. As a low-to-middle-income country, Nepal faces significant challenges in accessing healthcare, with 25% of the population living below the poverty line, surviving on just 50 cents per day. Geographic difficulties, such as challenging terrain, long distances to clinics, and limited transportation options, pose additional barriers to healthcare access. In fact, approximately 79% of Nepal’s population resides in rural areas. The country’s primary and rural healthcare system is further constrained by a lack of sufficient healthcare personnel, high staff attrition rates, and inadequate supply chain logistics.
Dr. Shakya has witnessed the direct impact of her surgical care on the quality of life of her patients and their families, which has deeply resonated with her and continues to motivate her. She shared a story about a two-year-old girl with bilateral facial clefts whom she worked on with Dr. Howell. The girl’s parents were pleasantly surprised by the surgical outcome, as they initially had low expectations. Following the surgery, the girl’s ability to eat and speak improved dramatically. The family felt a sense of relief, knowing that their daughter would grow up with increased confidence and being able to interact more comfortably with others at school.
Through her participation in the Surgical Sight Smart Glass Program, Dr. Shakya’s confidence has also grown. She values the program’s ability to connect her with surgeons from other countries, allowing for collaborative case discussions, planning, and guidance during procedures. She describes the program as amazing and highly necessary in the present time. Read More
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location_on Colombo, Sri Lanka
Dr. Dimuthu Tennakoon
Orthopedic Surgeon
Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children NGO Steps2Walk
Dr. Dimuthu Tennakoon: Helping Children With Clubfoot Repair in Sri Lanka
Dr. Dimuthu Tennakoon chose to work in orthopedics after interning as a medical officer in orthopedics and is extremely passionate about his specialty. He is currently working on learning a variety of pediatric foot and ankle procedures with his mentor, Dr. Maryse Bouchard. He enjoys the planning of deformity correction with her and is grateful for the resulting improvement in decision-making for these conditions. For Dr. Tennakoon, this improvement and the ability to share his knowledge with colleagues from around the country is vital.
Although all types of surgical care areneeded in Sri Lanka, orthopedic care is considered to be a priority, considering the immediate need for orthopedic procedures. Dr. Tennakoon disclosed that he is now able to help 5-6 new cases per week because of his time in the Surgical Sight Program.
One patient, in particular, has resonated with Dr. Tennakoon. This patient was a 3-year-old girl and sole survivor of a road traffic accident who presented with Bilateral Clubfoot. With help from Dr. Bouchard, he successfully treated her injuries with recasting, re-tenotomy, and tibialis anterior lateral transfer.
The Ohana One Surgical Sight Smart Glass Program has helped him through live surgical trainings, ongoing mentorship and education, guidance in decision making, and the sharing of knowledge. Especially during the pandemic and subsequent economic crisis making traveling overseas difficult, the Ohana One Surgical Sight Smart Glass Program has proven to be indispensable. Read More
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location_onUkraineOhana One Extends Support to Ukrainian Surgeons in Humanitarian Crisis
In response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, Ohana One has taken a proactive step by partnering with Vuzix and TeleVu to send twenty pairs of smart glasses to assist surgeons working under incredibly challenging conditions. The medical professionals in Ukraine have been overwhelmed by the influx of military and civilian casualties resulting from the Russian invasion. Despite the relentless demand for medical attention, doctors continue to workdiligently while their fellow countrymen and women bravely defend their nation, with no end in sight to the conflict. Consequently, numerous medical facilities find themselves inundated and unable to cope with the overwhelming demand.
Marchelle Sellers, Ohana One's executive director, and Sharon Oreck, an Ohana One board member, personally delivered ten donated pairs of Vuzix M400 smart glasses, preloaded with TeleVu remote software, to the Meest-International shipping center in Glendale, CA. Thanks to a very special friend and donor, in partnership with Ohana One, a container full of medical and surgical supplies and baby items were shipped to Ukraine as well. Then, a dedicated Ukrainian volunteer hand-delivered this technology to surgeons in Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine, in a demonstration of national pride. From there, the smart glasses were shared with hospitals in Lviv and Kyiv.
This vital collaboration between Vuzix, TeleVU, MEEST, and the volunteer surgeons is what makes the Ohana One Surgical Sight Smart Glass Program possible!
The provided technology plays a pivotal role in assisting Ukrainian surgeons as they navigate the challenges of providing care to those injured in the war zone of Eastern Ukraine. The smart glasses offer indispensable support, empowering the surgeons to deliver crucial medical interventions more effectively and efficiently.
As the humanitarian crisis continues to unfold, Ohana One remains dedicated to supporting medical professionals on the front lines, providing them with the tools they need to save lives and restore hope in communities affected by conflict.
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location_onNigeriaOhana One Offers a Unique
Solution For Rural Nigerian Healthcare Ohana One partner NGO, Healing the Children, alerted us to a dire situation rural northern Nigerians face. Their primary care doctors have been lured away to Dubai and Abu Dhabi with higher pay, leaving residents in remote rural areas without access to basic care. Dr. Mariette Ahmadi, a Nigerian surgeon, was determined to find a solution for her fellow country people. After connecting with Dr. Ahmadi, Ohana One quickly responded with a grant of ten smart glasses and software to easily connect the community members with larger, urban medical clinics. In the hands of Nigeria’s community liaisons, this technology is already greatly impacting patients in rural areas of the country!
Working in partnership with the Nigerian State Ministry of Health (SMOH), Dr. Ahmadi has staffed a call center with doctors on call 24/7. The SMOH and private donations have furnished the call center. The call center doctors are available to provide medical assistance virtually to the remote Primary Health Care Clinics (PHC), which often do not have a doctor on staff. The Smart Glasses are located at the Primary Healthcare Clinics and allow the call center doctors to do a virtual consultation with the PHC staff and their patients. This collaboration provides a level of care that was not available before the deployment of the smart glasses.
The SMOH is working to promote this service in rural areas through the distribution of fliers as well as radio programs. Tarek El-Shayal, a biomedical engineer from New York, has also volunteered to represent Ohana One as he travels to Nigeria this July to further assist their expanding efforts.
Smart glasses have vastly improved the capacity of locally run medical clinics. Thanks to the Ohana One smart glasses, they can now offer telehealth via regional medical centers. This is the only healthcare rural Nigerians can access without lengthy and expensive travel.
Please stay tuned for updates as we track the impact this project is having. Back to Map
FROM OHANA HQlocation_on Los Angeles, California, USA
New Board Members
Ohana One welcomed three exceptional individuals to its board of directors in 2022. They bring diverse backgrounds and expertise to the table. Together, these three dynamic individuals have brought invaluable expertise to Ohana One's board of directors. Their unique backgrounds and skill sets have enriched Ohana One's strategic decision-making, fostered innovation, and reinforced its commitment to revolutionizing the healthcare industry through advanced technology. Bill Pope has an exceptional eye for detail, creative storytelling abilities, and a knack for transforming raw footage into captivating visuals. He used these unique talents working alongside fellow board members Jay Roach and Sharon Oreck during the filming of the upcoming Ohana One documentary. Sharon Oreck is a respected professional known for her work as a filmmaker, producer, and branding consultant, Sharon brings a wealth of knowledge in storytelling, marketing, and strategic planning. Her strategic insights and innovative ideas have already helped to shape Ohana One's brand identity and marketing strategies. Dr. Jennifer Bepple's extensive experience as a medical professional, coupled with her dedication to improving patient care, aligns perfectly with Ohana One's mission. With her in-depth knowledge of healthcare systems, clinical workflows, and patient needs, Dr. Bepple has already provided invaluable guidance in developing Ohana One's healthcare technology solutions to better serve medical professionals and patients alike.
Executive Board David Kulber, MD
President Adrian Ashkenazy
Vice-President Kylie Tanabe,
PA-C
Secretary Susan K. Laffer
Treasurer
Michele Dee, MD
Immediate Past
President
Board Aaron Bregman
Gracie Fermelia
Marshall Geller
Tom Gordon
Harry Levitt
Karissa Sharifan
Garry Pearson
Jay Roach
Sandra Rodriguez, RN
Robert Uhlaner
Larry Taylor
Jennifer Bepple, MD
Sharon Oreck
Bill Pope
Team Marchelle Sellers, MBA
Nasim Hafiz
Marvee Turk, MD
Eva Williams, MD
Megan McCullough, MD
Megan Demijohn
Scott Moe
Maggie Bohlman
Tarek Elshayal
Jeanne Bray
Edward Ray, MD
Rachel Buigas-Lopez
Sidra Bugsch
Flávia Cavicchioli
Kamala Pillai
Nikitha Garapaty
View full team
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FROM OHANA HQlocation_on Los Angeles, California, USA
Helping at Home
Ohana One partnered with MendingKids during their Hometown Mission to make a difference in the lives of children in the United States who are unable to access life-changing surgeries due to insurance limitations. The Ohana One team traveled to Long Beach, California, to perform surgeries on children whose insurance does not cover the necessary procedures.
Additionally, Ohana One surgeons volunteered their services to operate on children through the Burnt Children's Relief Foundation, a partnership we have maintained for the past three years.
The dedicated volunteers from Ohana One included founders, Dr. Michele Dee, Dr. David Kulber, and Kylie Tanabe, PA.
Kylie expresses her enthusiasm, saying, "We truly enjoy working with the Burnt Children's Relief Foundation because we have the privilege of working with the most remarkable patients! Each and every one of them is incredible, and it is absolutely amazing to provide them with the opportunity for a better quality of life by restoring the function of their hands. They have endured so much, yet we gain more fulfillment from helping them than they receive from us. Their remarkably positive outlook on life and their ability to find happiness even in the darkest of circumstances are truly inspirational, and we are grateful to have them in our lives!" Back to Map
In 2022 we...
group Coordinated 65 mentor/mentee pairs with surgical education support
Added 60 new surgeons to the program
Organized 2 mission trips with 50 life-changing surgeries completed
computer Conducted 4 webinars, providing access to new surgical training tools
Completed over 800 surgical calls using Ohana One supported technology
Reached 43 countries with Ohana One program support
Supported 45 partner NGOs Introduced technology in 103 hospitals2257 hours of time donated from volunteers
$286,958 of in-kind surgical expertise donated
View the full list of hospitals, menotr/mentee pairs, and partners
Financials
Ohana One is disrupting the way remote surgical education happens through increased access and new technologies. We are a lean organization with minimal overhead which allows us to focus funds raised on the development of and investment in technologies and training modalities that are shared with surgical partners around the globe. Your support is what makes this possible.
FROM OHANA HQlocation_on Los Angeles, California, USA
Empowering Surgical Care Partnerships
In pursuit of our vision to transform surgical care globally, Ohana One’s team works with various partner organizations to leverage our team's expertise and support their impactful initiatives. Through these partnerships, we aim to empower surgeons and healthcare providers in low- and middle-income countries, ultimately improving access to safe and effective surgical care for all. Let's take a closer look at some of the remarkable organizations we are proud to work with.
Click on each organization to learn moreFIENS is a trailblazing organization dedicated to enhancing the care of individuals with neurological diseases worldwide by fostering education in neurosurgery. Through partnerships between established and emerging neurosurgical programs, FIENS provides hands-on training and education to neurosurgeons in low-resourced countries. Their volunteer neurosurgeons and personnel spend months on-site, working side-by-side with local neurosurgeons, teaching techniques, and setting up neurosurgery residency programs. This hands-on approach ensures the effective transfer of knowledge, positively impacting both surgeons and patients in these countries.
GICS is on a mission to ensure that every child has access to safe surgical care. With a steadfast commitment to building optimal resources for children's surgery in resource-poor regions, GICS engages with providers of all disciplines of children's surgical care worldwide. Their network includes over 1,100 members from 66 countries, comprising physicians, surgeons, nurses, medical students, and other practitioners dedicated to improving outcomes for children's surgery.
InterSurgeon plays a crucial role in fostering global collaborations and improving surgical care worldwide. Through their interactive website, InterSurgeon brings individuals and organizations together to create partnerships that enhance surgical capacity in low- and middle-income countries. By leveraging the expertise of previously untapped resources, they facilitate learning and education, empowering healthcare providers to create their own opportunities for growth. Intersurgeon's membership-based platform enables all members of the surgical team and other stakeholders to contribute to strengthening surgical care.
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Looking Ahead
2022 proved to be an exceptional year for Ohana One, and our ambitions for 2023 and beyond are even more remarkable. Our unique combination of technology and human expertise has revolutionized medical education, particularly in countries and regions that have historically lacked access to high-quality training.
Click on each image to learn moreEnabling surgeons to receive local training significantly increases the likelihood of them remaining in their home countries, where their services are desperately needed. Through the Surgical Sight Program, surgeons can acquire essential skills without having to leave their families and communities behind. The impact is both immediate and exponential as mentee surgeons evolve into mentors themselves, sharing their knowledge with colleagues.
Our board members Sharon Oreck, Bill Pope, and Jay Roach, all possessing extensive industry experience, have collaborated to produce a compelling documentary showcasing our work in Mozambique. We eagerly anticipate the film's premiere in New York and L.A. this fall and invite you to witness our achievements firsthand. Our OO app nears completion, heralding a transformative era for surgeons in both LMICs and HICs. This app will grant access to our expanding educational video library, spanning seven specialties we support. Furthermore, we are excited to introduce new technologies and enhance existing products, offering a comprehensive suite of tools to cater to the diverse needs of our surgical community.
Driven by the same spirit of responsiveness, we have developed mental wellness resources for the dedicated surgeons we support. The relentless pressure and stress surgeons face worldwide, particularly in under-resourced countries, necessitates our commitment to providing them with tools to navigate these challenges. We are working alongside a team of experts to ensure that surgeons, who are genuinely changing the world, receive the support they require.
Stay updated with our latest developments by subscribing to our newsletter and following us on social media. There is much more to come, and we would be honored to have you join us on this journey. Back to Map
Your donation will impact the lives of
patients and surgeons worldwide!
Do you believe every person deserves access to the very best surgical care regardless of where they live? Do you believe that surgeons should have access to the very best training regardless of where they practice and live? If you do, then please make your tax-deductible donation to Ohana One, and make a direct impact on the health and lives of patients worldwide.
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Looking Ahead
Financials
Impact
Welcome Letter
Mission Statement
Mentor Stories
Stories Around The Globe
Ohana One Annual Report 2022
Mentor & Multiply
Our work is not limited to single mission trips, but to establishing long-term sustainable surgical training programs utilizing mentorship relationships and advanced technology. We strive to be a trusted advisor to the NGOs we partner with, supporting them in attaining their missions. Caring for the patient helps one patient. Training the surgeon helps thousands of patients.
Our Mission
Ohana One aims to bridge global gaps in surgical care by providing access to advanced surgical training and mentorship programs, innovative technology, and educational resources to developing areas.
Our Vision
The lifetime impact of a surgeon in a developed country is an estimated 10,000 patients during their entire career. In 10 years, if we have 1,000 surgeons enrolled in our mentor program, those new surgeons can go on to operate on 10 million people worldwide— closing the surgical gap.
Dear Friend of Ohana One,
I am delighted to present to you the 2022 Annual Report, showcasing Ohana One’s significant achievements, innovative initiatives, and unwavering commitment to transforming surgical care around the world.
At Ohana One, we have long recognized the invaluable role of mentorship in shaping one's career and fostering professional growth. Our core belief in the power of mentorship has led us to marry this concept with cutting-edge technology through our revolutionary Surgical Sight Program. This program has not only brought mentorship to the forefront but has also revolutionized the way surgical skills are imparted and shared globally.
In 2022, the Surgical Sight Program reached new heights, expanding its presence to an astounding 48 countries and serving over 130 surgeons. Using smart glasses, we have facilitated innovative, collaborative learning between mentors and mentees, as well as peer-to-peer knowledge exchange. This technology has proven to be a game-changer, enabling an unprecedented level of engagement and expertise sharing among surgeons worldwide.
We take immense pride in witnessing the transformative impact of the Surgical Sight Program on patient care. The knowledge gained, and skills honed by surgeons trained with Ohana One are being put into practice in their home countries, ensuring that children and adults receive the highest quality of care and paving the way for brighter futures. It is a joy to see the tangible difference our collaborative learning approach has made in improving healthcare outcomes not only locally but also globally.
Furthermore, we embarked on a new initiative focused on mental wellness for surgeons, recognizing the immense pressure and challenges they face in their demanding profession. Dear Friend of Ohana One,
By providing comprehensive support and resources for mental well-being, we aim to foster a healthy and resilient surgical community that can thrive both personally and professionally. Caring for the well-being of surgeons will result in enhanced patient care globally.
In addition to these remarkable milestones, we were thrilled to resume in-person missions in Ethiopia and Mozambique in 2022. These missions allowed us to directly engage with communities in need, extend our expertise, and make a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals. The opportunity to work hand in hand with local surgeons and healthcare providers reaffirmed our commitment to building sustainable surgical capacity and empowering communities to take charge of their own healthcare.
None of these accomplishments would have been possible without the unwavering support and dedication of you, our supporters, our dedicated volunteer mentors, and the entire Ohana One family. Your belief in our vision and commitment to our mission has been the driving force behind our success.
As we delve into the pages of the 2022 Annual Report, we invite you to celebrate with us the strides we have made and the lives we have touched. Your continued support and partnership inspire us to push the boundaries of what is possible and create a future where surgical care knows no boundaries.
Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey.
Warm regards, David Kulber, MD
President, Ohana One Board of Directors mentor
/ˈmenˌtôr,ˈmen(t)ər/ • noun An experienced and trusted adviser.David Kulber, MD Founder & President
My mentor story begins when I first met Myles Cohen when I was a general surgery resident at Cedars Sinai. His reputation went well beyond that of a superb hand surgeon. He was known as a person of integrity and principle, guided by the pursuit of excellence in everything he did, no matter how menial the task.
Read More
Jennifer Bepple, MD Digital Health Consultant
My mentor story begins when I was a resident and mentee of Dr. Kurt McCammon in the Eastern Virginia Medical School urology program. He generously shared his extensive surgical knowledge, his compassionate and friendly approach to bedside manner, and managing life's various demands professionally and personally.
Read More
View Photos
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location_on Maputo, Mozambique location_on Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Ohana One Mission Trips:
Transforming Lives Through Surgical Care
One of Ohana One's recent mission trips occurred in Mozambique, marking their first mission trip since COVID-19 pandemic restricted travel. Throughout the past three years, the Surgical Sight Smart Glass Program allowed Ohana One mentors to maintain contact with local mentee surgeons and provide ongoing training. The mission trip presented an opportunity to further this vital work.
Fatima, a single mother and sole provider for her two children, as well as her sister's children, had been struggling with macromastia for years. This condition caused chronic pain in her neck, back, and shoulder, severely impacting her daily life. The Ohana One team performed a reduction mammoplasty on Fatima, providing immediate relief from her pain. This life-changing surgery allowed Fatima to focus on her work and family without the burden of constant discomfort, significantly improving their overall quality of life. Notably, Fatima received this surgery free of charge due to donations from our supporters and friends.
Dr. Giles Natchagange:
Revolutionizing Urological Care in Benin
Dr. Natchagande has been able to increase his surgical skills and confidence in performing Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) procedures thanks to the Surgical Sight Program. PCNLs are minimally-invasive procedures that remove stones from the kidney when the body is unable to pass them on its own. PCNLs have become increasingly in demand in Benin, so his mentorship relationships with Dr. Watson and Dr. Scotland have been life changing for many.
Dr. Natchagande is very passionate and dedicated to helping his community and it is evident.Benin has a population of 13 million people. It is ranked #171 in terms of best global healthcare, with only 2 surgeons per 100,000 people. There is a severe doctor shortage as there are only four hospitals within the national borders. Furthermore, 51% of the Beninese population lives in rural areas far from hospitals and clinics. Benin. Since his hospital doesn’t have a Pediatric Urologist, he has to perform on children as well. Because of the Surgical Sight Smart Glass Program, he now feels in his ‘comfort zone’ when performing PCNLs on children and adults. He is now even training some colleagues of his!
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location_on Cotonou, Benin
Dr. Gilles Natchagande
Urology Surgeon
Centre National Hospitalier et HKM NGO IVU Med
Dr. Giselle Coelho:
Transforming Children’s Lives
Dr. Giselle Coelho chose to be a Neurosurgeon because she became “fascinated by neuroanatomy and the physiology of brain function, naming neurosurgery as her ”life’s purpose”. In her eyes, the best part of being a neurosurgeon is “undoubtedly the possibility of transforming children's lives forever by treating a pathology that can often be life-threatening. It is very rewarding.”
Dr. Coelho is currently working on mastering a Third Ventriculostomy combined with choroid plexus coagulation using flexible neuroendoscopy with her Mentor, Dr. Michael Dewan. In fact, Brazil was the first country in Latin America to receive the training to perform this procedure through Ohana One’s partner organization NeuroKids.
With the support of Dr. Dewan, Dr. Coelho successfully treated a 4-month-old- boy who had a diagnosis of hydrocephalus and a progressive increase in head circumference and neuro psychomotor development delay. He was treated with endoscopic third ventriculostomy and choroid plexus coagulation, presenting significant improvement 30 days after the surgical procedure.
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location_on Sao Paulo, Brazil
Dr. Giselle Coelho
Pediatric Neurosurgeon
Santa Casa Hospital and Sabará Hospital NGO Neurokids
Dr. Guilia Brigshelli: Addressing a need for pediatric surgical care in South Africa
With Dr. Marc Levitt’s mentorship, Dr. Brisighelli has been working on mastering Posterior Sagittal Anorectoplasty’s (PSARPs) on patients with anorectal malformations. Dr. Brisighelli now feels more comfortable performing specific procedures and accomplishes around 20 PSARPs a year and 12 pull-throughs a year, with a wait list of around 80 patients. In comparison to high income countries, these numbers are enormous.
Dr. Brisighelli says that seeing the impact of her surgical care is “intrinsic with giving proper colorectal follow-up to patients.” During her work relationship with Dr. Levitt, which started 8 years ago, he taught her the importance of long term follow up, and in sharing knowledge and uplifting others. She shared that in her practice she is trying to do the same and believes that many families (and many other surgeons) are benefitting from it.
location_on Johannesburg, South Africa
Guilia Brisighelli
General + Colorectal Surgery
Chris Hai Bargwanath Academic Hospital NGO Surgeons for Little Lives
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Dr. Pramila Shakya:
Healing children in Nepal
Dr. Shakya has been in the Surgical Sight Smart Glass Program since 2020 and is working with her mentor Dr. Lori Howell on cleft lip, cleft palate, and craniofacial cases.
Dr. Shakya has seen the direct impact of her care on her patients and their families quality of life which has really resonated with her, and has continued to motivate her. She recounted a story about a patient she worked on with Dr. Howell. The two year old girl presented with Bilateral Facial Clefts. The parents of the girl were so happy with the surgical result as they had not initially expected much change. After the girl’s surgery, her abilities to eat and speak improved drastically. The family of the patient felt relieved that their daughter would grow up feeling less self-conscious and interact more with others at school.
Dr. Shakya’s confidence has grown enormously through her involvement in the Surgical Sight Smart Glass Program. She shares “from my surgical table, I can discuss the case with surgeons in other countries. They can help in the planning and guidance during the procedure. It is an amazing program and is needed at this time.” location_on Kirtipur, Nepal
Pramila Shakya
Plastics + Reconstructive Surgery
Kirtipur Hospital NGO ReSurge
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Dr. Dimuthu Tennakoon:
Helping Children With Club Foot Repair
Dr. Dimuthu Tennakoon chose to work in orthopedics after working as a medical officer in orthopedics in an internship and is extremely passionate about his specialty. He is currently working on learning many related Pediatric foot and ankle procedures with his mentor, Dr. Maryse Bouchard. He enjoys the planning of deformity correction with her and believes that his improvement in decision-making in managing conditions and sharing his knowledge with other colleagues all over the country is a highlight.
One patient, in particular, has resonated with Dr. Tennakoon. This patient was a 3-year-old girl who was involved in a road traffic accident and was the only survivor of her family and presented with Bilateral Club Foot. With help from Dr. Bouchard, he successfully treated her injuries with recasting, re-tenotomy, and tibialis anterior lateral transfer.
location_on Colombo, Sri Lanka
Dr. Dimuthu Tennakoon
Orthopedic Surgeon
Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children NGO Steps2Walk
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location_onUkraineOhana One Extends Support to Ukrainian Surgeons in Humanitarian Crisis
In response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, Ohana One has taken a proactive step by partnering with Vuzix and TeleVu to send twenty pairs of smart glasses to assist surgeons working under incredibly challenging conditions. The medical professionals in Ukraine have been overwhelmed by the influx of military and civilian casualties resulting from the Russian invasion. Despite the relentless demand for medical attention, doctors continue to strive diligently while their fellow countrymen and women bravely defend their nation, with no end in sight to the conflict. Consequently, numerous medical facilities find themselves inundated and unable to cope with the overwhelming demand.
This vital collaboration between Vuzix, TeleVU, MEEST, and the volunteer surgeons is what makes the Ohana One Surgical Sight Smart Glass Program possible!
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location_onNigeriaOhana One Offers a Unique
Solution For Rural Nigerian Healthcare Ohana One partner NGO, Healing the Children, alerted us to a dire situation rural northern Nigerians face. Their primary care doctors have been lured away to Dubai and Abu Dhabi with higher pay, leaving residents in remote rural areas without access to basic care. Dr. Mariette Ahmadi, a Nigerian surgeon, was determined to find a solution for her fellow country people. After connecting with Dr. Ahmadi, Ohana One quickly responded with a grant of ten smart glasses and software to easily connect the community members with larger, urban medical clinics. In the hands of Nigeria’s community liaisons, this technology is already greatly impacting patients in rural areas of the country!
Working in partnership with the Nigerian State Ministry of Health (SMOH), Dr. Ahmadi has staffed a call center with doctors on call 24/7. The SMOH and private donations have furnished the call center. The call center doctors are available to provide medical assistance virtually to the remote Primary Health Care Clinics (PHC), which often do not have a doctor on staff. The Smart Glasses are located at the Primary Healthcare Clinics and allow the call center doctors to do a virtual consultation with the PHC staff and their patients. This collaboration provides a level of care that was not available before the deployment of the smart glasses.
Smart glasses have vastly improved the capacity of locally run medical clinics. Thanks to the Ohana One smart glasses, they can now offer telehealth via regional medical centers. This is the only healthcare rural Nigerians can access without lengthy and expensive travel.
Please stay tuned for updates as we track the impact this project is having.
FROM OHANA HQlocation_on Los Angeles, California, USA
New Board Members
Ohana One welcomed three exceptional individuals to its board of directors in 2022. They bring diverse backgrounds and expertise to the table. Together, these three dynamic individuals have brought invaluable expertise to Ohana One's board of directors. Their unique backgrounds and skill sets have enriched Ohana One's strategic decision-making, fostered innovation, and reinforced its commitment to revolutionizing the healthcare industry through advanced technology.
Bill Pope has an exceptional eye for detail, creative storytelling abilities, and a knack for transforming raw footage into captivating visuals. He used these unique talents working alongside fellow board members Jay Roach and Sharon Oreck during the filming of the upcoming Ohana One documentary.
Sharon Oreck is a respected professional known for her work as a filmmaker, producer, and branding consultant, Sharon brings a wealth of knowledge in storytelling, marketing, and strategic planning. Her strategic insights and innovative ideas have already helped to shape Ohana One's brand identity and marketing strategies.
Dr. Jennifer Bepple's extensive experience as a medical professional, coupled with her dedication to improving patient care, aligns perfectly with Ohana One's mission. With her in-depth knowledge of healthcare systems, clinical workflows, and patient needs, Dr. Bepple has already provided invaluable guidance in developing Ohana One's healthcare technology solutions to better serve medical professionals and patients alike.
View full team
FROM OHANA HQlocation_on Los Angeles, California, USA
Helping at Home
Ohana One partnered with MendingKids during their Hometown Mission to make a difference in the lives of children in the United States who are unable to access life-changing surgeries due to insurance limitations. The Ohana One team traveled to Long Beach, California, to perform surgeries on children whose insurance does not cover the necessary procedures.
Additionally, Ohana One surgeons volunteered their services to operate on children through the Burnt Children's Relief Foundation, a partnership they have maintained for the past three years. The dedicated volunteers from Ohana One included founders, Dr. Michele Dee, Dr. David Kulber, and Kylie Tanabe, PA. FROM OHANA HQlocation_on Los Angeles, California, USA
Empowering Surgical Care Partnerships
In pursuit of our vision to transform surgical care globally, Ohana One’s team works with various partner organizations to leverage our team's expertise and support their impactful initiatives. Through these partnerships, we aim to empower surgeons and healthcare providers in low- and middle-income countries, ultimately improving access to safe and effective surgical care for all. Let's take a closer look at some of the remarkable organizations we are proud to work with.
FIENS is a trailblazing organization dedicated to enhancing the care of individuals with neurological disease worldwide by fostering education in neurosurgery. Through partnerships between established and emerging neurosurgical programs, FIENS provides hands-on training and education to neurosurgeons in low-resourced countries. Their volunteer neurosurgeons and personnel spend months on-site, working side-by-side with local neurosurgeons, teaching techniques, and setting up neurosurgery residency programs.
GICS is on a mission to ensure that every child has access to safe surgical care. With a steadfast commitment to building optimal resources for children's surgery in resource-poor regions, GICS engages with providers of all disciplines of children's surgical care worldwide.
InterSurgeon plays a crucial role in fostering global collaborations and improving surgical care worldwide. Through their interactive website, InterSurgeon brings individuals and organizations together to create partnerships that enhance surgical capacity in low- and middle-income countries. By leveraging the expertise of previously untapped resources, they facilitate learning and education, empowering healthcare providers to create their own opportunities for growth.
View All Partners
In 2022 we...
group Coordinated 65 mentor/mentee pairs with surgical education support
Added 60 new surgeons to the program
Organized 2 mission trips with 50 life-changing surgeries completed
computer Conducted 4 webinars, providing access to new surgical training tools
Completed over 800 surgical calls using Ohana One supported technology
Reached 43 countries with Ohana One program support
Supported 45 partner NGOs Introduced technology in 103 hospitals2257 hours of time donated from volunteers
$286,958 of in-kind surgical expertise donated
View the full list of hospitals, menotr/mentee pairs, and partners
Financials
Ohana One is disrupting the way remote surgical education happens through increased access and new technologies. We are a lean organization with minimal overhead which allows us to focus funds raised on the development of and investment in technologies and training modalities that are shared with surgical partners around the globe. Your support is what makes this possible.
Looking Ahead
2022 proved to be an exceptional year for Ohana One, and our ambitions for 2023 and beyond are even more remarkable. Our unique combination of technology and human expertise has revolutionized medical education, particularly in countries and regions that have historically lacked access to high-quality training.
Enabling surgeons to receive local training significantly increases the likelihood of them remaining in their home countries, where their services are desperately needed. Through the Surgical Sight Program, surgeons can acquire essential skills without having to leave their families and communities behind. The impact is both immediate and exponential as mentee surgeons evolve into mentors themselves, sharing their knowledge with colleagues.
Our board members Sharon Oreck, Bill Pope, and Jay Roach, all possessing extensive industry experience, have collaborated to produce a compelling documentary showcasing our work in Mozambique. We eagerly anticipate the film's premiere in New York and L.A. this fall and invite you to witness our achievements firsthand.
Our OO app nears completion, heralding a transformative era for surgeons in both LMICs and HICs. This app will grant access to our expanding educational video library, spanning seven specialties we support. Furthermore, we are excited to introduce new technologies and enhance existing products, offering a comprehensive suite of tools to cater to the diverse needs of our surgical community.
Driven by the same spirit of responsiveness, we have developed mental wellness resources for the dedicated surgeons we support. The relentless pressure and stress surgeons face worldwide, particularly in under-resourced countries, necessitates our commitment to providing them with tools to navigate these challenges. We are working alongside a team of experts to ensure that surgeons, who are genuinely changing the world, receive the support they require.
Your donation will impact the lives of patients and surgeons worldwide!
Do you believe every person deserves access to the very best surgical care regardless of where they live? Do you believe that surgeons should have access to the very best training regardless of where they practice and live? If you do, then please make your tax-deductible donation to Ohana One, and make a direct impact on the health and lives of patients worldwide.
DONATE NOW!
Looking Ahead
Financials
Impact
Welcome Letter
Mission Statement
Mentor Stories
