As recounted by Christian Lozano (The Godfather, AKA Big Brother), Eduardo Bustillo, Diego Sánchez, and Marcos Meninato
We cannot begin to recount this dreamlike journey without first expressing our heartfelt thanks. Our gratitude runs deep—and it is everlasting.
Thank you to the hosts, the sponsors, the attending physicians, the physical therapists, the education coordinators, the families, and the incredible, always kind support of the fellows.
From the foothills of Mount Ávila embracing Caracas, to the slopes of Monserrate crowning Bogotá, along the Costa Verde that kisses Lima, and all the way to the shores of the Río de la Plata that give life to Buenos Aires—know that you will always have friends in us.
First Stop: Andrews Institute – Pensacola, Florida
Our experience in Pensacola began with a warm welcome at the Andrews Institute from Christine Flores (Education Coordinator), Dr. Adam Anz (host), Dr. Jack Andrews, Dr. Steve Jordan, and the CEO of the Andrews Research & Education Foundation, Ashton Hayward. From the very beginning, we were immersed in an atmosphere of hospitality and excellence.
We had the opportunity to observe surgical procedures focused on patellofemoral instability, ligament reconstruction of the knee, and labral pathology of the hip. The surgical observation room and the Surgical Skills Lab offered a particularly enriching experience, highlighted by the use of cutting-edge technology such as the KUKA robot, applied to surgical training.
The second day was centered around academic activities. We began with a meeting with the research group led by Jessi Truett, where we discussed potential collaborative studies. We then visited the musculoskeletal biomechanics laboratory, where advanced motion analysis systems and virtual simulators are used to optimize athletic performance. There, we had the opportunity to exchange ideas with Jacob Hurwitz, a kinesiologist and data analyst currently pursuing his PhD.
Later, we participated in an academic session with the Institute’s current fellows, Landon Wilkinson and Garrett Mead. Each presented their research projects, and we were also able to share our own clinical and academic work in a stimulating and constructive dialogue. The day concluded with a dinner at Dr. Anz’s home in Gulf Breeze, overlooking the ocean—a relaxed and inspiring setting to connect with colleagues.
The third day included a visit to the National Naval Aviation Museum, guided by a former combat pilot, followed by lunch at McGuire’s Irish Pub, known for its unique atmosphere. We ended the day at a minor league baseball game between the Blue Wahoos and the Biscuits—a lively and local finale to a visit defined by learning, innovation, and human connection.
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Second Stop: Rothman Institute – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
We arrived in the historic city of Philadelphia, in the northeastern state of Pennsylvania. Known as the birthplace of American independence, Philadelphia served as the nation’s first capital and hosted George Washington for a decade before the founding of Washington, D.C.
The city was also a temporary home to key figures in American history and culture. Among its most notable adopted sons was Benjamin Franklin, originally from Boston, whose scientific and political contributions deeply shaped the development of the nation. Equally fascinating is that Edgar Allan Poe, master of mystery and the macabre, wrote some of his most iconic works here—including The Tell-Tale Heart and The Fall of the House of Usher.
Our academic activities took place at the Jefferson Institute in collaboration with the Rothman Institute. We had the privilege of presenting and discussing clinical cases with our host Dr. Stephen Cohen, as well as Dr. Michael Ciccotti, Dr. Fotios Tjoumakaris, and the kind and welcoming fellows: Frank (aka “Francesco”), Tai (aka “Road Dog”), and Brian.
After a stimulating academic session, the afternoon offered a truly memorable experience. Under the gentle summer sun, we strolled through Philadelphia’s Historic District—a walk through the very origins of modern democracy. We visited the iconic Liberty Bell, the house of Benjamin Franklin, George Washington’s residence during his stay in the city, the First Continental Congress, the First Bank of the United States, and other landmarks that preserve the spirit of a nation in the making.
As night fell, we gathered for an intimate dinner overlooking Rittenhouse Square, in the heart of historic downtown. Over wine and warm conversations, we shared stories and anecdotes—particularly those from Dr. Cohen’s Traveling Fellowship in Latin America—which added even more meaning to an unforgettable day.
The morning of June 24 began with anticipation and excitement as we headed into the OR. We had the opportunity to join Dr. Sommer Hammoud during a combined reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament and the posterolateral corner. Her remarkable surgical skill, energy, and motivational presence left a lasting impression. It was a high-level academic and technical experience.
After the surgical session, we enjoyed a classic lunch at Chickie’s & Pete’s, where we shared a traditional Philly Cheesesteak with the fellows and Dr. Cohen, always generous with his time and insights.
The afternoon provided a perfect change of pace with a visit to the city’s iconic Lucky Strike bowling alley. Laughter and light-hearted competition set the tone, especially after Tai’s “perfect” score.
To end on a high note, we were invited to Dr. Cohen’s home on the outskirts of Philadelphia. His charming wife welcomed us with an exquisite homemade dinner, filled with warmth and hospitality. We exchanged gifts and stories—and, as tradition dictates, finished the evening with the city’s signature dessert: the cinnamon cannoli. It was the perfect close to an unforgettable experience in every sense.
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Third Stop: Ohio State Jameson Crane Sports Medicine – Columbus, Ohio
We arrived in Columbus, the vibrant capital of Ohio, located in the heart of the American Midwest. From the very beginning, we were welcomed with warmth, kindness, and generosity by Dr. Grant Jones.
We stayed at the Graduate Hotel, located on one of the city’s main avenues—a youthful, modern, and inviting space. After settling in, we visited the Columbus Arts Center, where we enjoyed the striking contrast between contemporary art and the region’s traditional architecture.
That evening, we had the privilege of dining at the legendary Scioto Country Club, a historic venue known as the place where golf icon Jack Nicklaus began his journey. We shared the evening with Dr. Jones and sports medicine specialists Dr. Nick Apseloff and Dr. Ryan Rauck, exploring the club’s historic grounds and admiring its naturally elegant, serene atmosphere.
The following day, we visited the Jameson Crane Institute of Sports Medicine, a center recognized for both its clinical excellence and thoughtful architectural design. We joined Dr. Jones for a surgical session focused on shoulder procedures, witnessing his technical precision and meticulous approach.
We toured the institute’s biomechanics lab—an impressive, state-of-the-art facility—as well as the spacious cadaver training areas and the physical therapy and rehabilitation center, all designed to support the complete recovery of high-level athletes. This visit was both inspiring and aspirational, prompting reflections on the future of sports medicine in Latin America and the potential for building integrated centers that unite science, technology, and patient care.
Later that day, we were invited to an experience rarely found in our region: a shooting range session. It was an enjoyable opportunity to connect with our hosts in a relaxed and informal setting.
The following morning, we joined Dr. Gregory Cvetanovich in the OR for a shoulder-focused surgical session. We observed a supraspinatus tendon repair and a revision rotator cuff surgery involving partial repair and subacromial balloon placement. We then accompanied Dr. Rauck for two hip arthroscopies, completing a morning filled with valuable surgical exposure.
That afternoon, we visited the athletic facilities of The Ohio State University with Dr. Rauck. We stood on the 50-yard line of the iconic Ohio Buckeyes stadium, capturing a memorable photo at the heart of the field—home to the reigning champions of U.S. college football. We also toured the training center, where championship rings, trophies, and elite-level equipment reflect the university’s athletic tradition.
To end the day, we enjoyed a special dinner at Hyde Park with AOSSM Immediate Past President Dr. Christopher Kaeding, and Drs. Bob Magnussen, David Flanigan, and Greg Cvetanovich. We shared a robust California Zinfandel and lively conversation that ranged from surgical anecdotes to reflections on medical education and future collaborations.
We concluded our time in Columbus with a well-deserved day of rest. The morning began with a run through the peaceful Atrium Park, accompanied by the outstanding shoulder surgeon Dr. Julie Bishop. In the afternoon, we were treated to a boat outing along the Scioto River. With cold beers, wake surfing, and the calm waters of the Midwest as our backdrop, it was the perfect farewell to our time in Columbus—the birthplace of the unforgettable Toni Morrison.
We left the city with grateful hearts and our sights set on our next stop: the legendary Mayo Clinic in Rochester.
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Fourth Stop: Minnesota – Mayo Clinic and TRIA Orthopedic Center
We began our visit to Minnesota with a morning at the legendary Mayo Clinic, an iconic institution founded by Dr. William Mayo and his two sons. Its origins date back to an act of charity led by a group of nuns in response to a devastating tornado and the urgent need for a hospital to provide dignified medical care. Today, Mayo Clinic is a world-renowned nonprofit medical foundation with nearly 45,000 employees working in its Rochester facilities.
Our visit began with a guided tour led by fellows Brandon Cabarcas and Jason Ina, who showed us various areas of the institution, including Dr. Saris’ research lab and the Sports Performance and Rehabilitation Center.
Later, we had the opportunity to observe surgeries alongside Dr. Mario Hevesi, focusing on medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction and cartilage restoration procedures.
We then visited the Orthopedic Service library—a space that proudly preserves the history of the program with photographs of past department chairs and key figures in Mayo’s orthopaedic legacy. We were honored to sign the visitors’ book, leaving a small testimony of our visit and our institutions as part of this living history.
The day concluded with the presentation of our academic talks with Dr. Adam Tagliero and a valuable lecture by Dr. Aaron Krych who shared his expertise on meniscal root pathology in a warm and atmosphere of scientific exchange.
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The next day, we traveled to Bloomington to visit the renowned TRIA Orthopedic Center. Our host, Dr. Brad Nelson, warmly welcomed us to his home that evening.
The day began with an academic session led by Dr. Nelson, during which we discussed our presentations and reviewed various clinical cases. We were honored by the presence of Drs. Gary Fetzer, Jeff Macalena, Caitlin Chambers, and Elizabeth Arendt, whose insights enriched the academic exchange.
We were then guided through the clinic by Maia Knox. One of the most moving moments of the day came when we discovered, in the patient waiting area, a framed jersey gifted 20 years ago by Dr. Facundo Gigante—displayed proudly as a symbol of the strong bond between Latin America and TRIA. This was a deeply emotional gesture that filled us with connection and gratitude.
During the surgical session, we observed several shoulder procedures, including an open glenoid fracture fixation and a shoulder instability repair performed by Dr. Nelson.
We ended our visit with a memorable dinner overlooking Lake Minnetonka—whose name means “great water”—followed by a sunset boat ride accompanied by fellows Saral Patel and Brandon Stradel, along with other colleagues. It was a perfect close to an unforgettable experience.
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Fifth Stop: San Francisco, California – UCSF
During our visit to San Francisco, we were warmly welcomed by Dr. Nicolás Colyvas, a renowned sports surgeon specialized in meniscal pathology—and also an avid race car driver. We had the privilege of joining him for academic and clinical sessions at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), where we participated in high-level surgical procedures focused on meniscal repair, including complex cases such as root reinsertion and meniscal centralization.
Beyond the academic setting, we also allowed ourselves to be captivated by the spirit of this iconic city. We explored the vibrant Chinatown, immersed ourselves in history during a visit to the legendary Alcatraz prison, and enjoyed an unforgettable dining experience with an oceanfront view at the Waterfront Restaurant. We were joined for this evening by Drs. Sara Edwards, Brian Feeley, Carline Senter, and Alan Zhang, whose company enriched the moment.
One of the most memorable highlights was celebrating Independence Day at the home of Dr. Benjamin Ma and his gracious wife, Anitta, who treated us to an exquisite homemade dinner. Surrounded by friends and colleagues, we shared laughter, stories, and a magical evening crowned by a drone show lighting up the skies over the San Francisco Bay.
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Sixth Stop: Albuquerque, New Mexico – University of New Mexico
Our journey concluded in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where we were warmly welcomed by the Richter family—Dustin, Lindsay, and their two children—who opened not only the doors of their home, but also invited us into their daily lives. Albuquerque, the largest city in the state, surprised us with its landscapes painted red by the setting sun. The Sandia Mountains give the horizon a dramatic, almost spiritual character.
During our stay, we experienced the deep connection between Spanish heritage—evident in the local cuisine, adobe architecture, and interior courtyards—and contemporary American identity, a cultural fusion that gives this region a truly unique personality.
We were joined over these days by Dr. Gehron Treme, Dr. Daniel Washer and Carlotta, and our always generous host, Bob Schenk.
The surgical focus of this visit revolved around multiligament knee reconstructions—the centerpiece of the program. We observed with admiration the team’s technical mastery and the fluid coordination with which they approached these complex procedures. It reaffirmed our belief that success in such demanding surgeries comes not only from individual skill, but from careful planning and true teamwork.
Beyond the operating room, we shared meaningful moments. We took the Sandia Peak Tramway—the longest and highest aerial tramway in the United States—where the cold wind and sweeping views offered a moment of awe and pause. We also shared warm, home-cooked dinners at Lindsay and Dustin’s home, and with the Treme family, whose hospitality made us feel like part of their own.
One day included a trip to Santa Fe, a city of exotic beauty where the traditional adobe architecture seems frozen in time. There, we learned about the cultural importance of chile—a staple of local life—while cooking together, and marveled at the colors and forms of Georgia O’Keeffe’s work at her museum.
This final chapter of our trip offered not only clinical learning, but a deeply human experience, marked by the generosity of our hosts, the cultural richness of the American Southwest, and the spirit of camaraderie that accompanied us every step of the way.
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Final Stop: Nashville, Tennessee – AOSSM Annual Meeting
Our intense and unforgettable journey reached its epilogue at the AOSSM Annual Meeting in Nashville—a city where music flows from every corner and stars seem to be born every day.
The academic program was intellectually outstanding. Yet, what truly mattered was the reunion with those who made this journey one of the most meaningful personal and professional experiences of our lives: colleagues who have become friends.
Our gratitude is eternal, as are the memories we forged together—they will remain with us always.
Thank you, Kaitlin, for your tireless work and support throughout this entire journey.
Christian, Marcos, Eduardo, and Diego
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