A New Ship: Announcing the Global Mercy
The world’s largest civilian hospital ship designed to double the hope and double the healing.
The dream was born long ago.
What if we designed a new hospital ship? One that could hold more patients? Support more crew members to volunteer overseas? Deliver more medical training? What if we built a vessel that could provide even more hope and more healing in Africa?
Responding to an Overwhelming Need
The dream of a new hospital ship came in response to a harsh reality. Each year, 16.9 million people die due to lack of access to surgical care.* A large percentage of these deaths occur in Africa’s developing nations, where the fragile healthcare systems simply cannot support the overwhelming need for safe surgical procedures.
For over 40 years, Mercy Ships has been on a mission to change that. Through the support of our faithful partners and volunteers, we provide access to safe surgery and deliver medical training. As a result, countless lives have been transformed through a holistic approach to healthcare. From surgical care to medical training to long-lasting infrastructure development, we strengthen healthcare systems by treating patients and providing sustainable solutions to nations in need.
But in all of our efforts to reach more and teach more, we needed a ship equipped to do more.
A Medical Marvel
It’s with much joy and gratitude that we announce the Global Mercy—the world’s largest civilian hospital ship, built to more than double our capacity to deliver safe healthcare and medical training to Africa. This 174-meter, 37,000-ton ship is outfitted with state-of-the-art technology and instrumentation, six operating theatres, and 199 hospital beds. And because medical training is a critical part of our in-country engagement program, the Global Mercy is equipped with a training centre that includes a simulation lab, virtual reality stations, and more. Powered by an international crew of more than 600 volunteers, the ship also has ample accommodations to make its surgeons, nurses, maritime crew, cooks, teachers, electricians and more, feel at home. (Interested in volunteering? Submit your application today!)
The Global Mercy will join the Africa Mercy to serve Africa together. With their combined medical technology, passionate crews, and the support of partners, many more people will experience life changing transformations.
Free surgical procedures by some of the most well-trained physicians in the world remain an important part of our life-changing work. And while our patients experience physical healing through the surgeries they receive, they often find much more. Children are able to go to school. Mothers and fathers are able to work and provide for their families. Community relationships are restored. For so many of our patients, access to surgery means finding hope again.
Over the next 50 years, it is estimated that more than 150,000 lives will be changed onboard the Global Mercy through surgery alone, and countless more lives will be impacted through the ship’s medical training and infrastructure programs. In close collaboration with our host nations in Africa, the Global Mercy, together with the Africa Mercy, will more than double the impact of our work.
Join us on the journey of making dreams a reality!
Learn more about the Global Mercy and how you can leave a lasting legacy >>
*Source: The Lancet Commission on Global Surgery
Diacko: The Courage to Trust
As we approach the close of this year, let us take a moment to reflect on the challenges and trials faced by so many, especially those who have experienced profound loss. This season, while we gather with loved ones to celebrate, let’s also remember those who are still suffering, those who have lost their way, and those who have lost their faith in a better tomorrow.
During this holiday season, we invite you to join us in this mission of compassion, faith, and renewal.
Your generosity can make a real and lasting impact.
Teneng and Ibrahima: Gifts from God
This Christmas season, let’s come together as a community of faith and support to bring restoration to people who have lost so much. Mercy Ships Canada is on a mission to heal and transform the lives of Children and adults in need. Your gift, rooted in faith, can make a significant difference in the lives of countless people. Your support will bring back smiles, health, and faith to children and adults who have suffered for far too long. Donate today and make this Christmas truly meaningful.
Kadidja: A Future as Bright as her Smile
At Mercy Ships Canada, we serve those who have lost hope, bringing healing and transformation. Our volunteers, inspired by their faith, work selflessly to perform surgeries that renew not only bodies but also faith and hope. This Christmas, be a part of the miracle by making a donation to Mercy Ships Canada. Your contribution will help renew faith and offer a second chance at life. Together, we can make a significant impact on those who have suffered for too long.
Aissatou Finds Healing
As we approach the holiday season, we are reminded of the immense power of faith and the importance of giving back to those in need. This Christmas, you have the opportunity to be a beacon of hope, healing and transformation for those who need it most.
Your support this Christmas will not only change lives but also reaffirm the spirit of giving and faith. Join us in spreading love, hope, and healing.
Make a donation today, and together, we can transform the lives of people who have lost so much.
Grateful Hearts-Thank you message from Darryl Anderson
Our journey continues, and we’re excited to have you by our side as we embark on new adventures of compassion and change.
Face-to-Face after Decades: Catherine and Aly Reunite on the Global Mercy
The last time Catherine Conteh saw the deeply familiar smile in front of her in Freetown, it was under dramatically different circumstances. Learn more about Aly’s act of kindness!
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