Thanks so much for visiting my page and learning more about what I’ll be doing come July 2022!!
What’s the plan?
I’m heading to Dakar, Senegal, to volunteer with Mercy Ships aboard the Africa Mercy from July 2022 to December 2022! I will be working as an inpatient pediatric ICU ward nurse with patients receiving life-changing operations from all walks of life.
Who is Mercy Ships?
The mission is to “bring hope and healing to the world’s forgotten poor.”
They do this by deploying hospital ships to the coast of the poorest countries in the world, delivering essential, accessible healthcare to people in need. They seek to “leave the host nation better equipped with training, tools, and infrastructure to care for their own. Mercy Ships Capacity-Building programs identify local needs and work closely with local governments to establish initiatives that make a lasting difference. Mercy Ships aims to leave a legacy that extends for years- and even generations.”
I’ll attach a link to the Mercy Ships website if you want more information. Check out the Stories tab to see the ship and the types of patients I’ll have the pleasure to serve!!
Where in the world is Senegal?
Dakar is the capital of Senegal, in West Africa. The capital city’s name means tamarind tree in Wolof, a native language. One nickname for Dakar is the “Paris of Africa,” while Senegal is nicknamed the “Gateway to West Africa.”
Why am I volunteering?
In this season of life, I find myself more grateful for the things I have been able to experience and the body that has guided me through them. I have traveled all over the US in my nursing career, which has helped prepare my brain and heart to serve with Mercy Ships. There are a lot of unknowns and challenges that lie ahead, but I feel confident in my decision. I’ve always felt drawn to helping others, and with its lasting impression, this organization feels like the right place to volunteer. I’m so excited to be a part of a mission that changes the lives of patients and those who serve!
Why Fundraise?
One of the challenging parts of volunteering is the cost. I applied to Mercy Ships back in 2019 but have just now felt like I was in a financial place to leap. You will be helping me to cover:
-monthly crew fees (these are in place for all crew so that every dollar donated can go directly towards the mission of Mercy Ships)
-vaccinations required for travel to/in Africa
-insurance overseas
-usual living expenses
-travel to and from Dakar
While I am putting my savings towards this goal, anything you can contribute is incredibly appreciated.
I honestly can’t THANK YOU enough for your support. Your contribution will allow me to be a part of the beautiful work onboard the Africa Mercy. I can’t wait to get there to tell you all about it!
If you’ve made it this far and for my worrywarts, my best friend, Dani, is already on board the ship! I can’t wait to be reunited and serve with her! Zilla will be living with her grandparents during my time away. She’s sure to be spoiled with many sunny porch hangs and lots of love!
www.mercyships.org