The MIVO Foundation

The MIVO Foundation was created in 2009 by orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Gracia Etienne, on two basic truths:

1) Trauma is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity in Haïti;

2) Healing is not complete without addressing the spiritual component.

Dr. Etienne received his call to service in 2008 when he realized how dire the orthopaedic needs were in Haiti.  He was cutting a suture during a simple surgical procedure and the scissors broke. They were simply too old and have been recycled too many times. That was certainly an “eye opener” for Dr. Etienne. He came back to the States with a heightened interest in helping the underserved. That interest grew into a passion that led to multiples meetings, pleas, and requests. Dr. Etienne's wife partnered with him in a systematic campaign of information and public relations. The MIVO foundation was founded in 2009 as a formal 501(c3) organization after a thorough assessment of needs and a full feasibility study. The local York, Pennsylvania community responded with volunteerism as well as donations of supplies and equipment. Through the commitment of our executive committee, we have organized regular scheduled trips every year. The foundation is now operating a fully staffed center in the town of L’Estère, Haïti. Our local staff is trained to run a comprehensive outpatient orthopaedic service. We then performed various orthopaedic surgeries during our regular mission trips. The services that we offer have greatly impacted the orthopaedic care in the region and the country as a whole.