Orthotics & Prosthetics
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One of the many things Michael Ansbach ‘27O&P learned while attending his first Wonderland event held by the Orthotics and Prosthetics (O&P) program at Drexel University, Elkins Park Campus was that an amputee, as an individual, is so much more than their limb difference.
“Being able to have conversations with our VIP guests throughout the night showed me how active and adventurous the patients remain without letting their limb difference bring any negative attitude into their lives,” said Ansbach, who earned his undergraduate degree in kinesiology from Penn State.
The second annual Wonderland highlighted VIP guests, children who use orthotics, prosthetics and adaptive equipment as well as offered an opportunity to connect with the community and different adaptive organizations.
The evening, which drew a crowd of approximately 80 people, included games such as ring toss, pin the tail on the Cheshire Cat, mini golf and bean bag toss as well as a raffle.
This was the second Wonderland for Rebecca Semko ‘27O&P, who co-chaired this year’s festivities and said it provided countless opportunities for learning and growth.
"Every patient that we see is special and I view each opportunity to gain exposure as a chance to learn something new,” said Semko, who earned her undergraduate degree in biomedical engineering at Mississippi State University. “In terms of pediatric patients, we don't really see many, however Wonderland is the event where we get to. It is honestly a really cool experience to see their resilience and attitude.”
Semko added that the children don't let their limb difference or their pathology stop them from getting involved, participating in activities, and just enjoying life.
“Most people outside our field would view amputees as ‘limited,’ however getting to see them run around and play games just like any other kid shows how important O&P is and how much we can truly make an impact in the lives of our patients,” she said.
The event is the brainchild of alum Victoria “Tori” Page, MSOP ‘25. She co-founded AccessAbility UnLimbited, a non-profit, with Reagan Thompson ‘26O&P, Kayla Connelly '26O&P and Julie Quinlan, MPO, MS, CPO/L, ATC, FAAOP, assistant professor in the O&P department. The mission of AccessAbility UnLimbited is to provide support and assistance to adaptive individuals who use orthoses and prostheses, including raising funds for master's students to participate in trips to underserved countries to help children that need orthotics and prosthetics care. The Wonderland event is one way the group fulfills its mission.
Both Semko and Ansbach said Wonderland is important because it allows O&P students a chance to see how patients are using their orthotics and prosthetics to remain active and have fun. And, it helps master's students advance their professional careers as many of the sponsors are O&P companies and manufacturers who sent representatives to the event.
“It’s just a special night and makes you really appreciate the field that we are going to be a part of and the impact that we can have on those we get to help,” said Semko.
Gold level sponsors for Wonderland were Tamarack, the Abrahams and ArentFox Schiff. Bronze level sponsors included Surestep, Hanger Clinic, Komfort & Kare, Neshaminy Ridge Apartments and the Semkos.
