OPGA

Todd Eagen Advocacy in Action Memorial Grant

Why

Anyone who knew Todd Eagen knew that he was passionate about everything he did. Todd was especially passionate about fighting for legislative change that would help further the O&P profession. Todd was heavily involved with several of our profession’s advocacy champions, including NAAOP and AOPA. Whether it was serving on boards for NAAOP and AOPA, lending his time and focus to O&P, or simply providing advice, Todd was always there to help in any way he could.

Todd was the President of OPGA for many years until his untimely passing on June 4, 2022. He will always be remembered for his fierce commitment to helping others, his tireless efforts to make the O&P profession the best it can be, and above all, the friendships that he made along the way. Össur and OPGA are privileged to provide the Todd Eagen Advocacy in Action Memorial Grant.

What

Now in its second year, the Todd Eagen Advocacy in Action Memorial Grant is co-sponsored and co-supported by Össur Americas and OPGA. It is designed to provide annual funding to a certified orthotist or prosthetist, or both, to attend and participate in two different events that are outside of the clinical setting and realm but are highly important to the O&P profession and the patients it serves.

  • The first event is the annual AOPA Policy Forum. This event gathers people from the profession to Washington D.C. for a two-day meeting, including one day of meetings with their state’s legislative contingency to advocate for better policies affecting O&P.
  • The second event is the annual Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) Triathlon Challenge held in San Diego. It is the mission of the CAF to provide opportunities and support to people with physical challenges so they can pursue active lifestyles through physical fitness and competitive athletics. The CAF believes that involvement in sports at any level increases self-esteem, encourages independence, and enhances quality of life.

When

Application period will open Jan. 8, 2024, and close Feb. 14. A selection committee consisting of five O&P professionals will review all applications, and the recipient will be notified and announced during the AAOP Annual Meeting, March 6-9, 2024.