Get on board! Support Nurse Lauren to volunteer on Mercy Ships

After working as a registered nurse for over 10 years in both the public and private sector, I have decided to put my skills and passion for nursing to good use on the charity medical ship, Africa Mercy!

Africa Mercy is the largest medical ship in the world (159m), run by the non governmental organisation, Mercy Ships. Over 400 international crew all volunteer their skills to make this floating hospital run. It is based mostly in West Africa, serving some of the poorest nations in the world to deliver first world health care and surgery to people who would otherwise have no access to treatment.

Onboard are 6 operating rooms and 5 wards. We will perform free surgeries for facial disfigurement, maxilla-facial and orthopaedic conditions, reconstructive plastic surgery for injuries such as burns or congenital malformations, general surgical problems, eye diseases, dental problems, and for women with child birth injuries (fistula surgery).

Mercy Ships also works to up skill and train local health professionals and provide health education and promotion so that there is a lasting impact upon the nations they serve.

I will both live and work onboard full time as a ward nurse, caring for patients post surgery until they are well enough to return to their homes/communities.

I will not be paid for my work, but will be required to pay crew fees that cover my rent and board of $620 USD per month. I will also need to fund my flights, insurance, immunizations and spending money. I will be taking a leave of absence from my current job and I am signed up to serve onboard for 9 months! I would be extremely grateful for any donation that you could offer to support me in this endeavor!!

This is a great step of faith for me and I am very excited to be involved with such an amazing organisation that makes a lasting impact on the people, communities and the countries they serve. Please take a minute to view my video and for more info about Mercy Ships please see there website: https://www.mercyships.org