Globally, there are five billion people who have no access to safe, affordable surgery when they need it. Mercy Ships is working hard to plug this gap. Since 1978, Mercy Ships has visited more than 70 countries, providing services worth more than £1 billion that have directly helped more than 2.5 million people. Mercy Ships has also trained more than 38,000 local health professionals in order to leave a legacy that lasts.

As many of you know I retired from the NHS a couple of years ago,. I was then fortunate to be able to train with a private company to work in Ophthalmic surgery. As a result, I have gained skills which added to my public health nursing experience have enabled me to volunteer with this organisation.

I will be travelling to Sierra Leone in February 2024 to work on the Global Mercy for four weeks. I will be the Ophthalmic day surgery nurse, working mainly with paediatrics that month.

The video below gives more information about how this work makes a difference;

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GQ0CH_W3ms

Volunteers pay their own way, as Mercy ships use all funds raised to support the costs of the ship, operating theatres, equipment etc.

My costs are approximately; flight £1400, medical examination £300 vaccinations £300 and living costs £300.

I have set a high fundraising target but I will meet some of the costs myself and if by chance I raise more than needed the rest will be donated to the ongoing work of Mercy ships.

If you are able to donate , you will have the opportunity to use gift aid i(f you are a taxpayer) to increase the amount received.

Any support offered will be gratefully received!

https://www.mercyships.org.uk