Medical Capacity Building in Liberia
Canadian team member Ms. Annick Sylvestre, on secondment to Mercy Ships part of the Country Engagement Team (CET) – Operations Liaison, provides an update on Mercy Ships recent medical capacity building work in Liberia.
Through the Africa Mercy had to depart Africa in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mercy Ships partnerships and programs have continued, running a range of training and capacity building programs this year on the continent.
Mental Health Training in May
The medical capacity building included training:
- Thirty-seven individuals (primarily healthcare workers/mental health clinicians/social workers in Monrovia) in partnership with the Ministry of Health.
- Forty-six spiritual leaders (Catholic and Evangelical) in Gbarnga in Bong County for a week with two partners.
- Twenty people, including healthcare workers, police, spiritual leaders and bailiffs, participated in the training in partnership with the Ministry of Health.
The mental health training uses Dr. Lyn’s book called The Understanding People, Mental Health, and Trauma (UPMHT) throughout the training.
Mercy Ships received the following endorsement from a partner following the mental health training that was delivered in Gbarnga, Liberia:
I feel highly honoured to say some words of such a powerful mastermind book for humanity by Dr. Lyn Westman, who upon meeting her continues to be for me a ‘contagiously’ good encounter still wonderfully unfolding. The Understanding People, Mental Health, and Trauma (UPMHT) is a must ‘experience’ book, especially for persons interested in helping relationships. It proves easy to read, to learn and to apply in one’s life and others. It forms a solid bridge linking intellectual knowing and practical knowing. UPMHT is an amazingly powerful pedagogical tool that incarnates the reality of mental health and trauma to the level of every person – regardless of the individual’s origin, age, sex, race, culture, religion, tradition, status, etc. I am highly grateful to God to have met Dr. Lyn Westman and honoured to have experienced this book through her tutorship. Anyone searching for a clear, down-to-earth, and a real blend of knowledge, experience and wisdom book about helping self and/or others live a better and flourishing life in this our fallen world, I highly recommend you consider this book.
Biomedical Training on Anesthesia Machines
After receiving a request from our governmental partner, Mercy Ships received and shipped eight anesthesia machines with monitors and training tools. Mercy Ships will train 18 biomedical technicians in three blocks of two days on those machines (six per group). We were also ensuring that healthcare workers who will use the equipment know how to use them.
There will be an eight-week Biomedical Technician Training for the first nine participants in two blocks: 21 June – 16 July and 26 July – 20 August. Additionally, there will then be a second training program for the final nine participants that is scheduled to start in September 2021.
Visiting Healthcare Professional
We are preparing to welcome an otolaryngologist (ENT) surgeon. There is no ENT surgeon in Liberia – as you can imagine, there is a great need, and we are very much looking forward to getting started! Our ENT surgeon will be mentoring general surgeons and providing surgeries at local facilities.
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.
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