Leading With Compassion During COVID-19

Leading with compassion

At Mercy Ships Canada, your support allows us to provide free, life-changing surgeries to those in need. While COVID-19 has physically prevented people from coming together this past year, it has not stopped communities from uniting to help transform medical care to those who need it most in this world. Here’s one story of a local business that led with compassion during this trying time – and how it resulted in one of our newest volunteers.

In early March, the COVID-19 vaccination plan was underway in Canada, but the challenges of the pandemic were still felt by many. As a small business, Parametric Pro Consulting – a local consulting firm based in Victoria, BC – understood the impact of COVID-19 on today’s organizations, as well as the power of community support. For the past few months, Parametric Pro Consulting had shared an office space with members of our team, leading to casual hallway conversations and elevator interactions. While the firm had been familiar with Mercy Ships Canada, their Vice President knew it was the perfect time to extend a helping hand.

After connecting with our team, Parametric Pro Consulting was ready to help and – more importantly – they knew exactly how to help. One of the firm’s current co-op students, Marissa Louie, had expressed a strong interest in finding a way to create a positive social change in her community. With this understanding, we were immediately introduced to Marissa, which led to the beginning of her volunteer journey with us.

Marissa is a fourth-year commerce student at the University of Victoria. Two years ago, she worked at a non-profit organization that was dedicated to improving access to healthcare for kids across Vancouver Island. Through this experience, Marissa instantly realized her passion for helping others. Specifically, she was motivated to use her writing skills to share the stories of meaningful causes and inspire others.

“I can’t wait to start volunteering with Mercy Ships Canada. In the next few weeks, I have the opportunity to participate in StoryBrand training, which will help me better understand Mercy Ships Canada’s messaging. Moreover, it’s exciting to see how the organization is redefining today’s definition of medical care. I have witnessed the impact of improving access to healthcare on a local scale, and I am excited to bring this enthusiasm to a global scale. “

Through stories like Parametric Pro Consulting, we are reminded of the value of supporting each other during difficult times. We are so thankful for our volunteers, supporters, and partners who have continued to help us bring hope and healing to those in need for nearly 40 years. If you are interested in getting involved, visit our Volunteer and Get Involved pages to see how you can help today!

volunteer Florence Bangura

The Woman Who Forged Her Way Through Walls: Florence Bangura’s Story

Florence’s journey from oldest to newest Mercy Ship came full circle when she met the Global Mercy™ in 2023, the same year that the purpose-built hospital ship began welcoming its patients on board. Today, you can find Florence, now 49 years old, down in the engine room as a hotel engineering assistant.

Dr Austin Demby

Transforming Sierra Leone’s Healthcare: A Vision for Safe and Affordable Surgery

As experts from the surgical and healthcare world gather for the 64th Annual Conference and Scientific Meeting of the West African College of Surgeons in Sierra Leone this week, a profound dedication to advancing surgical knowledge and practice in the region is palpable. At the forefront of discussions lies the conference’s pivotal theme: access to safe and affordable surgical and anesthetic care in West Africa. This theme highlights the pressing need to address disparities in healthcare capabilities and capacities across the region, especially the critical importance of equitable access to quality surgical interventions.

Mission Madagascar

The Africa Mercy Arrives in Madagascar to Bring Hope and Healing Anew

Freshly refitted hospital ship, the upgraded Africa Mercy® has arrived at the island nation to build on the charity’s longstanding collaboration and will provide specialized surgeries in various fields, including maxillofacial and ear nose and throat, general, pediatric specialized general, pediatric orthopedic, cataract surgery, and reconstructive plastics. 

Patient Vanya

Reuniting with Vanya, Years After Surgery

In 2015, in an operating room on board the Africa Mercy while docked in Madagascar, the course of Vanya’s life changed.
Years have now passed since Vanya’s journey toward healing. In the time since, her improved ability to walk allowed her to return to school, where she loved studying environmental science and learning about the world around her.

Kadidja

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.

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