Sharing Hope Together on World Health Day
On April 7, people around the world celebrate World Health Day by amplifying this year’s theme: building a healthier, fairer world. It’s a mission that strikes a particularly resonant chord with Mercy Ships. We are founded on the belief that everyone deserves safe, timely, and affordable surgery. For more than 40 years, we have been committed to meeting the global surgery crisis and providing lifesaving and life-changing care to those who would otherwise lack access. The dream of a healthier, fairer world ignited Mercy Ships — and it continues to guide us forward.
Lucy Quist, Mercy Ships international board member and the Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at Morgan Stanley, understands the vitality of this vision. With roots in both Ghana and the U.K., Lucy has published a book — The Bold New Normal: Creating The Africa Where Everyone Prospers — speaking directly to the dream of a healthier, fairer world.
In Lucy’s words, providing free surgery isn’t the finish line. It is just the beginning. For the patients we treat, surgery means more than you can imagine.
“Before they get surgery, a patient’s day-to-day life is really about survival,” says Lucy. “Many of these surgeries are critical. Their life is about not dying, not getting sick from another disease, not working, relying on others for help, trying to survive day to day. By having this surgical intervention, they have a real chance at thriving. Some people have surgery and can now go to school; go to work; look after their families.
“Really, an intervention isn’t just life-changing because their body changes. Their whole life changes. Suddenly, they can become a functioning member of their community and make a real contribution, as opposed to being dependent.”
Working Together to Build Sustainable, Stronger Healthcare Systems
We know that real, sustainable change can only happen when we work together.
This is why Mercy Ships Medical Capacity Building (MCB) programs partner with governments, hospitals, and medical professionals in the African nations we serve in order to strengthen and support the existing healthcare systems. These programs often continue long after the ships have sailed away from our host nation’s port.
“By being a part of this initiative, healthcare professionals have the opportunity to learn best practices that they can take back to their communities and local hospitals. Some of these best practices are basic, some are more complicated — but they all matter,” said Lucy. “In healthcare provision, every step matters. It’s not just about having one person with a big surgical brain. Knowing the right hygiene protocol among all healthcare workers, for example, makes a difference for patient outcomes.”
Doubling the Impact with a New Purpose-Built Ship
In addition to providing training and mentoring programs, we strive to make an impact in Africa through our hospital ships. The Global Mercy™, our newest vessel, will soon be fully equipped to join our flagship, the Africa Mercy®. As both a floating hospital and a floating training center with a state-of-the-art simulation lab, the Global Mercy will blend surgery and training in an unprecedented way. As a result, Mercy Ships will be able to share hope like never before.
“The world has had a hard time in 2020,” said Lucy. “The need remains great and is perhaps even greater after the pandemic. Now, Mercy Ships is doubling down. By God’s grace, Mercy Ships is going to do more than we usually do.”
Together, we can share hope of a healthier, fairer world. Together, we can transform healthcare systems on an individual and community level. Together, this is only the beginning.
Want to join us in sharing hope and transforming lives? Learn how you can get involved >>
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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