The who,what,where,when, & why?

Hmm, where to start? Well, here I am on the world's largest nongovernment charity hospital ship called the Africa Mercy being swayed about as we're sailing the Atlantic to Togo, West Africa. I boarded the ship in Tenerife, Grand Canary Islands Spain on January 24th, 2010 and will be working with the team till end of July/beginning of August 2010. One of the nurses on the ship asked us for the top 10 reasons why we're here...let's see if I can come up with five...my lack of articulation is being challenged here:
1. To make my dream of nursing overseas a reality.
2. To experience Africa - people, culture, health challenges, life challenges
3. Because of my previous experience of working with Mercy Ships on the Anastasis being so positive, I wanted to return.
4. Be surrounded,challenged, & influenced by inspirational & passionate Christian people who challenge the norm/status quo.
5. To be a small part of this Christian ministry to the less fortunate - addressing not only the physical need but also spiritual, emotional, mental, & social.

"Mercy Ships is a global charity that has operated hospital ships in developing nations since 1978. Mercy Ships brings hope and healing to the forgotten poor by mobilizing people and resources worldwide, and serving all people without regard for race, gender, or religion." (Mercy Ships website)
For more information click on Mercy Ships link on the right.