Free surgeries performed at St. Vincent Infirmary

LITTLE ROCK, AR-- 18 patients had hip and knee replacement surgeries at Saint Vincent Infirmary Saturday at no charge.The procedures are part of the Operation Walk Program.

Operation Walk allows patients with no insurance or money to have the procedure free.

"Everything has been donated. People have donated their time and their efforts and their skills," said Dr. Lowry Barnes.

In addition to Barnes, Drs.Gordon Newbern and Paul Edwards also volunteered their services. Patients are thankful because living with the leg pain is so great.

"It has affected all facets of my life.I can't walk very well. I can't sleep well. It really affects your whole life," said patient Thomas Ross.

Local high school students and orthopedic residents also gave a little help.

"I've needed hip replacement for almost six years. And I didn't have insurance. So the program has been a godsend," said Ross.

Before bringing the national program to Little Rock, doctors also performed surgeries to patients in other countries.

"This is what medicine is all about, being able to give back to people what we have to deliver," said Barnes.