Thomas Kaschak, DPM

“Our first patient actually crawled in on his hands and feet,” said Dr. Thomas Kaschak, recalling the first time he volunteered at an orthopedic clinic in Da Nang, Vietnam in 1998. Inspired by the courage of that patient and hundreds of others just like him, Dr. Kaschak created the Vietnam Medical Project.

For the past 13 years, he has been the project’s heart and soul, gathering supplies and recruiting other medical volunteers to join him on annual visits. Each trip changes the lives of 40 to 60 children and young adults suffering from polio, cerebral palsy, birth defects and rare musculoskeletal disorders that would otherwise be left untreated.

Says Dr. Kaschak of the work that brings hope to so many people: “The best part about providing podiatry care in Vietnam is the satisfaction that comes from helping people who are so extremely appreciative.”