Since our Bring Back Hope event just one year ago, Ethiopia's National Spine Centre is well on its way to becoming a reality. The new outpatient clinic is on track to open by early 2026, followed by the construction of two state-of-the-art modular operating rooms and renovation of the pediatric wards and physical therapy clinic – creating a comprehensive facility for world class spine care.

In the meantime, impact is already being felt across the country: over 6,000 individuals in Addis Ababa and in rural clinics received spine care in the past year. During our May surgical campaign, a team of top spine surgeons worked alongside Ethiopian colleagues to perform 50 highly-complex surgeries. One young patient, Simegn Dinegde, made history as the first to undergo a halo traction procedure in country prior to her surgery, avoiding a months-long treatment abroad.

Now, five months after her successful operation, Simegn has fully recovered. She can move without pain and is happy with her much-improved posture. She has returned to her 8th grade class and is working towards her dream of becoming a fashion designer.

The ripple effect of Bring Back Hope continues to grow, with 160 health professionals trained in spine care this year, including 49 surgeons mentored by the team and two nurses trained in India. Our two dedicated local surgeons who completed advanced spine training are already performing transformative corrective surgeries for children with spinal deformities using top-quality implants from India. These young patients are regaining height, balance, and confidence—returning to school, work, and life with renewed mobility and hope.

Ethiopia Expedition | April 20-24, 2026

In other exciting news, I am thrilled to invite you to join me on a special visit to Ethiopia on April 20th-24th, 2026 to see the transformation of the National Spine Centre firsthand and enjoy many other unique aspects of this historic country.

We are proposing a small group experience offering a unique opportunity to witness the impact of your generous support and be a part of the official opening of the Spine Centre.

During the visit, you will tour the updated facilities and partake in many other Signature Experiences. We can also assist with arranging additional days to experience other parts of Ethiopia. If you are interested, please take two minutes to complete the "I'm Interested" form found in the middle of the Signature Experiences page.

The CEO of JDC, Ariel Zwang was recently visiting Ethiopia to see the progress of the Spine Centre renovation; please see linked below an onsite video message she recorded for us.

I truly hope you can join me on what is sure to be a fascinating, fun and meaningful trip.

Gary Segal.
BBH Founder & Chair

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