Discover our patients’ stories
Mercy Ships was founded to bring a compassionate response in a world of need. Through our hospital ships, lives are being transformed in Africa.
Mercy Ships provides free care to the poorest, regardless of origin, gender, or religion. Each surgery not only saves a life but restores dignity and quality of life.
Story of Harimalala
At the age of 12, Harimalala’s life changes suddenly. What seemed like a simple sore throat turns out to be far more serious: a goiter begins to grow on her neck. An operation on board the Africa Mercy frees her from this mass.
Story of Marie Elisa
Following an unexpected encounter with our medical team in her village, Marie Elisa received a maxillofacial surgery on board the Africa Mercy. An inspiring story that reflects the courage and resilience of our patients.
Story of Fudia
The 10-year-old can now walk by herself without struggling and is set to resume school, with hopes for the future set high: “I want to be a doctor, so that I can help other people,” she shared.
Story of Lucy
In 2021, Lucy suddenly experienced unbearable tooth pain. Although the tooth eventually fell out, the pain persisted. Her face became swollen, and it was discovered to be a tumor. Unfortunately, the cost of medical treatment was beyond the family's financial means.
Story of Mamadou
Shortly before his first birthday, Mamadou's mother realized that he was having difficulty grasping objects and that he regularly stumbled. Mamadou suffers from cataracts.
Story of Naserry
Naserry, a little 5-year-old girl, stumbled into a fire and knocked over a boiling pot: suddenly her whole childhood was shattered.
Volunteer testimonies
Aboard the two largest civilian hospital ships in the world, more than 2,000 volunteers from 74 countries join forces to help the most vulnerable in Africa.
Mercy Ships simply wouldn’t exist without these dedicated professionals who give their time aboard our hospital ships.
I want to volunteer!
Our last blogposts
A Dream Come True: African Nations unite to Strengthen Access to Dental Care
A historic moment for dental education took place in Morocco, where African leaders came together to shape the future of dental care across the continent.
From Fine Dining to Humanitarian Service: Anouck’s Path
For four years, Anouck dedicated her talents and skills aboard the Africa Mercy. Starting as dining room manager and later as Operations Director, she shares with us her unique volunteer experience on board.
Gary Parker: A Life Dedicated to Volunteer work
Dr. Gary Parker, a surgeon with 40 years of service aboard, was honored with the prestigious Humanitarian Award from the American College of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (ACOMS) for his exceptional contribution to global health. This esteemed distinction was awarded for the thousands of transformative free surgeries he has performed aboard the Global Mercy.
