Jefferson Award for Piedmont Woman

Here's what UCSF anesthesiologist Dr. Philip Bickler had to say about a Piedmont resident:

““I have never in my life met someone more dedicated, more determined, or more capable than Laura Escobosa,” he told KPIX TV.

The occasion for his comment was Escobosa being named the latest recipient of the Bay Area Jefferson Awards, sponsored by the TV station to honor those who've made a significant contribution.

Escobosa is director of Operation Rainbow, a nonprofit that organizes teams of surgeons and other medical professionals who travel to developing countries to provide free orthopedic and plastic surgery to children in need but lack the means to receive treatment.

"It was wonderful to get the award," she told Patch. "I didn't expect it at all."

Escobosa said she joined the 34-year-old organization in 1990 after she'd been asked help a small team arrange a trip to Guatamala.

"I went on the first mission in 1990," she said. "I was really taken by it because the impact is so enormous. Right off the bat, you realize you're making a huge impact in the lives of the children and their families."