Inventor of 'Operation' game needs actual operation, crowdfunding site helps fund it

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In 1964, John Spinello sold a university assignment to a toy invention firm for just $500. That game eventually became Milton Bradley’s Operation.

Spinello, now 77, never saw an additional dime from the game — his original concept involved players inserting a metal wand into holes while trying avoid touching the sides of the holes, which would set off an alarm — but went on to lead what he called “a good life.”

He recently admitted to some friends, however, that he was struggling to pay the bills. He was facing oral surgery that would cost him about $25,000.

So those friends launched a crowdfunding site, hoping that longtime fans of the game will chip in and help out its creator.

The $25,000 goal has already been surpassed on CrowdRise.com.

At the $15,000 mark, Spinello created a video to say thank you.

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According to Tim Walsh, Spinello’s good friend and the organizer of the fundraiser, another special thank-you video is now in the works.

Fans weren’t just asked to donate money to cover Spinello’s medical costs. They were also asked to leave Spinello notes of encouragement on the site www.ILoveOperation.com.

So they did.

"Thanks for a great lifetime of Operation. My sister and I played together 40 some years ago and my girls play it together now. In fact, there is a game somewhere in our playroom right now. I have to admit, the buzzer was a lot less annoying 40 years ago! Thanks for the memories," wrote one supporter.

"Dear John, I hope your surgery goes well. I bought one of the games. I enjoyed it SO much as a kid…I played it with my kids…and now my daughter is a doctor! Thanks for YOUR invention, YOUR game. And best of health to you," wrote another.

The site is also selling a limited number of autographed Operation games for $50. ($60 for orders outside the U.S., to cover shipping costs.)

Read more of the encouraging notes to Spinello here.