Mercy Ships Brings “Hope And Healing” in ‘Mercy May’ Campaign!

Mercy Ships, a not-for-profit (NFP) enterprise offering free healthcare and life-saving surgeries to those who cannot afford medical care, on board state-of-the-art hospital ships, has launched a ‘Mercy May’ campaign, in a bid to raise much needed funds in the continued support of its patients.

With 1300 volunteers on board each year, Mercy Ships has delivered 100,000 surgical procedures and trained 42,000 medical professionals in “vital medical procedures” since it began its mission to provide “Hope and Healing”, in 1978.

“Our selfless crew members volunteer their time and talent and pay their own expenses to deliver the highest quality medical care to those desperate in need. Over 1300 people volunteer to be an integral part of the Mercy Ships crew every year,” (MercyShips.org.au).

“Our floating hospitals efficiently bring safe, sterile operating rooms and hospital beds directly to people in need so that our volunteer medical staff can provide free surgeries.”

Meet Marie Madeleine

As a child, Marie Madeleine had limited mobility and a severe limp in her right leg, caused by a muscle contracture that left her knee hyperextended backward.

According to University of Pittsburg Medical Centre (UPMC), “A Contracture occurs when your muscles, tendons, joints or other tissues tighten or shorten causing deformity.”

“Contracture symptoms include pain and loss of movement in the joint.”

Marie Madeleine’s mother was unable to afford surgery and had been waiting for help to arrive, when she came across Mercy Ships.

“We are waiting for god’s help, because we couldn’t afford her surgery. We were waiting and now god’s help has arrived, because of this I knew everything was going to be alright,” (Marie Madeleine’s Mother).

Marie Madeleine received free corrective surgery that restored mobility to her leg, and volunteer Physical Therapist, Allie, suggests the results were immeasurable.

“It’s just amazing to see her leg come out and be in a straight or bent position this is not painful for her to move it, and she has the strength to lift it.”

I can’t wait to see her healed and running with her friends…and to see the difference in Madeleine’s legs after the operation,” (Marie Madeleine’s mother).

Mercy May

Throughout the month of May, friends and groups are encouraged to get together in Mercy Ships’ annual Mercy May campaign, raising funds for Mercy Ships’ medical and surgical procedures. Mercy May events can include BBQ’s, lady’s days, cake stalls, dinners and morning teas, and all events will be supporting a worthwhile cause, with 100% of funds donated going directly to providing free healthcare and surgeries.

“Gather your friends together for a good time and raise money for a great cause,” (MercyShips.org.au).

To host an event, click here.