The Orthotic and Prosthetic Group of America (OPGA) and Össur are now accepting applications for two grant programs available to orthotics and prosthetics (O&P) professionals in the United States.
A Jan. 17 news announcement from OPGA and VGM & Associates said the organizations are seeking nominations for the Russell Walker Emerging Leader grant and the Todd Eagen Advocacy in Action Memorial Grant.
Each grant provides funding for a current O&P resident and certified orthotist or prosthetist, respectively, to “attend and participate in two non-clinical events that are highly important to the O&P profession and the patients it serves,” the announcement said. “These events include the AOPA Policy Forum and the Challenged Athletes Foundation Triathlon Challenge.”
Matt Ballantine, Vice President of Lower Limb Prosthetics Americas for Össur, said in the announcement, “Össur is honored to continue our partnership with OPGA and supporting the next generation of O&P leaders. Through these awards, we honor the legacies of Rusty Walker and Todd Eagen and their incredible contributions to the O&P community and their patients. We look forward to supporting the grant recipients as they continue their work in elevating the O&P profession.”
OPGA noted that the Russell Walker CP, LP, Emerging Leader Grant is in honor of Rusty Walker, “a practitioner who was passionate about mentoring the next generation of O&P leaders.”
The Todd Eagen Advocacy in Action Memorial Grant honors the memory of the former President of OPGA, who passed away in June 2022.
Adam Miller, President of OPGA, added, “Both Rusty Walker and Todd Eagen will always be remembered for their commitment to helping others and making the O&P profession the best it can be. That is why Össur and OPGA are privileged to honor both of these amazing men by providing these grants.”
