The Pediatric Orthopedic Project located in Carmel is quietly creating global waves. Founded by Drs. Enrico and Madelyn Stazzone, this volunteer-run nonprofit delivers free orthopedic surgeries to children in underserved communities—primarily in the Dominican Republic. What began as a mission of compassion now stands as one of Indiana’s most inspiring examples of sustainable global healthcare.
What Is the Pediatric Orthopedic Project?
Pediatric Orthopedic Project (POP) is a nonprofit organization based in Carmel that provides:
Free pediatric orthopedic surgeries (especially scoliosis corrections)
On-site medical training for local healthcare professionals
Hospital improvements and equipment donations
Sponsorships for rehabilitation, braces, and medications
Its goal is not just to heal but to empower. POP helps build local healthcare systems that continue long after the mission teams leave.
Impressive Impact
As of 2025, POP has made an extraordinary difference:
780 children treated
769 surgeries performed
14 international missions completed
56 local clinicians trained
50 hospital improvements implemented
100% volunteer-run with no paid staff
Every dollar donated goes directly to care. That level of transparency and impact is rare, and deeply appreciated by the families POP serves.
Mission Trips Rooted in Compassion and Education
POP’s teams travel several times a year to hospitals in the Dominican Republic, such as Hospital Regional Universitario Jaime Mota in Barahona. Their most recent mission (Mission 15) was completed in June 2025.
What sets POP apart is its focus on sustainability. Surgeons, nurses, and therapists from Indiana train Dominican medical staff onsite. It’s healthcare with a ripple effect, changing not just individual lives but entire communities.
Local Ties: Carmel’s Commitment to Pediatric Health
While POP operates globally, its roots remain firmly planted in Carmel, Indiana. The founders are connected to the region’s leading pediatric medical centers, including:
Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital – Carmel
Riley Children’s Health at IU Health North
Ascension St. Vincent Pediatric Rehab Services
These institutions provide families with access to world-class pediatric orthopedic care, ensuring Indiana children also receive top-tier support. Carmel continues to be one of the top Indiana towns for families and a hub for healthcare innovation.
How You Can Help
Whether you're based in Carmel or beyond, there are ways to support the Pediatric Orthopedic Project:
Donate: Every dollar supports life-saving surgery.
Volunteer: POP welcomes medical and non-medical professionals.
Sponsor a child: Help fund braces, rehab, or medication.
Share their story: Awareness brings opportunity.
To get involved or learn more, visit the official website:
Pediatric Orthopedic Project
A Healing Mission Born in Indiana
The Pediatric Orthopedic Project is more than a nonprofit – it’s a movement of hope, skill, and service. POP is creating a legacy of healing that stretches across continents and generations.
If you're looking for a cause with heart, impact, and integrity, this is one worth supporting.
