Some people choose a career. Others are called to one. For Dr. Amanda Marshall-Rodriguez, orthopaedic surgery is more than a profession—it’s a purpose. Guided by her faith and a deep sense of mission, she has spent her life restoring mobility and transforming lives. With over 6,000 knee replacements performed throughout her career, Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez is not only a highly skilled surgeon but also a compassionate healer.
A Purpose-Driven Life
Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez’s journey is rooted in her belief that talents are a gift from God. “My humanitarian efforts are simply an extension of why I have been placed on this earth—to use my talents to make the world a better place,” she says. This conviction has driven her to perform over 150 pro bono joint replacements through both Operation Walk USA and Women Orthopaedist Global Outreach (WOGO), bringing life-changing care to patients who would otherwise go without.
Her dedication to giving back is unwavering. “One of my talents is providing the gift of mobility through joint replacement surgery,” she explains. “I feel driven to give my time and effort to those around the world who would otherwise not have access. It is such a wonderful privilege to be able to help.”
Operation Walk USA: Restoring Hope Locally
Since 2010, Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez has been a dedicated participant in Operation Walk USA, a program that provides free joint replacements to uninsured patients in the United States. This past December, she performed 4 knee replacements in two patients at South Texas Spine & Surgical Hospital (STSSH), continuing her annual tradition of giving back during the holiday season. Over the past 15 years, she has performed pro bono surgeries annually the first week of every December, bringing hope and mobility to those who need it most.
“We are so very committed to this program,” says Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez. “It has become an annual tradition and a way we can all give patients a new lease on life. These individuals will start the new year with mobility, renewed hope, and spirit. This is a real collaborative effort, and we so appreciate the support of our local volunteers, other orthopaedic surgeons and their staff, and the many donors and supporters for their generous time and expertise.”
Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez’s involvement is a testament to her commitment to serving her local community.
WOGO: A Global Mission of Healing
Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez’s commitment to healing knows no borders. As a key member of Women Orthopaedist Global Outreach (WOGO), she has participated in 10 international missions, including a recent journey to Tanzania in February 2025. This trip marked her medical assistant Marie Neira’s 4th WOGO mission and celebrated their 18-year work anniversary.
“Being on another WOGO mission, working side by side with Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez on our 18th work anniversary, was incredibly meaningful,” Marie shared. “It felt like everything had come full circle—celebrating such a significant milestone while directly impacting lives.”
Marie plays a critical role in ensuring every surgical instrument is properly prepared, keeping operations running smoothly during these high-intensity mission trips. “Though the workdays can be long and chaotic, the reward is much larger,” she added. “Volunteering on these missions gives me such a deep sense of fulfillment—it fills my heart with joy.”
WOGO was founded in 2009 by a group of female orthopaedic surgeons who recognized the urgent need for better access to joint replacement surgery—especially for women in under-served communities. Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez has been involved since their inception, helping the team on its first outreach trip to Kathmandu, Nepal, in 2010. Since then, WOGO has grown to include 10 female surgeons and has become a force for global medical relief, performing nearly 500 knee replacements across multiple countries and making a lasting impact on patients’ lives.
These trips require extensive preparation, from assessing patients to ensuring they receive proper post-operative care. Since joining WOGO, Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez has completed four pre-trips, ensuring every detail is in place before surgery begins. This work would not be possible without Zimmer Biomet, a key partner that provides the high-quality implants WOGO surgeons rely on to restore mobility for patients around the world.
Transforming Lives, One Surgery at a Time
The impact of Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez’s work resonates deeply with her patients, who often describe her as a beacon of hope. One patient, Kenny Copeland, shared: “I felt the presence of the Lord, and I’ve never had a doctor pray over me. I am forever grateful.”
This sentiment is echoed in countless 5-star reviews, where patients praise her skill, compassion, and the Christ-centered care she provides. Her ability to make each patient feel valued and cared for has earned her recognition as a Top Doctor numerous times, as well as a stellar reputation on platforms like Google.
Beyond the Operating Room: The WOGO Mission Continues
WOGO’s impact doesn’t end when the team leaves a country. The organization works to establish long-term relationships with local medical professionals, providing training and resources to ensure sustainable healthcare solutions.
Funding these missions requires enormous effort, and WOGO relies on supporters to make future trips possible. One of the biggest fundraising efforts is the WOGO Charity Clay Shoot, an event held every two years. The last event raised an incredible $118,000, and this year, the team is setting a goal of $120,000 to support the next mission. For those looking to contribute to this life-changing work, sponsorships and participant spots are available.
A Legacy of Giving Back
For Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez, these missions are not just a part of her career—they are at the heart of who she is. From the operating room in San Antonio, Texas, to hospitals in Tanzania, Congo, Cuba, Nepal, and beyond, her impact is felt across the world. As long as there are patients in need, she and the WOGO team will continue their mission—one knee replacement at a time.
How You Can Help
Dr. Marshall-Rodriguez’s work is a testament to the power of compassion and collaboration. But she can’t do it alone. By supporting the WOGO Charity Clay Shoot, you can help ensure that more patients receive the life-changing care they deserve.
Whether you participate, sponsor, or spread the word, your contribution makes a difference.
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