This & that...

Medical Reception

As Mercy Ships partners with the Togo ministry of health we held a reception for all the dignitaries. This was to inform them of the work Mercy Ships does, to thank them for allowing Mercy Ships into their country, as well as to make contact with the local physicians and other health providers for education and followup. The reception included speeches, tours of the hospital, tables with information on the different specialties, as well as refreshments.

Dr. Gary Parker (max-fac's surgeon with the ship for over 20 yrs)

Gwen & I (both ward RN's)

Hannah & Becca (OR & ward RN's)


Day Volunteer Orientation
The ship has approx 90 day volunteers/workers from Togo who work in all different areas of the ship: engineering, deck, construction, dental, eye team, galley, housekeeping, hospital (including translators), security, etc. We assisted with their orientation and welcoming them to the ship.



Hospital Open House

The hospital staff had an open house prior to starting surgeries for the non-medical staff to be informed of what happens down on deck 3. These crew members (housekeeping, gallery staff, reception, deck, etc) have the opportunity to get involved with the hospital by our 'adopt a patient' program. They follow the patient through their stay on the ship (pre & post op) visiting them and getting to know them. The open house was also a great opportunity for the students from the Academy to learn about the hospital. There are approximately 50 students (staff members families) and 12 teachers for Kindergarten - Grade 12.


Learning about the OR

Techniques of intubation

The OR had a game representing the fistula (abnormal holes/tears) conditions. Birthing injuries that leave women incontinent of urine and sometimes feces. Target practice in OR stirrups isn't the easiest :)

Learning and practicing suturing techniques

Nasogastric tube feeds for our maxilofacial patients

Our station - learning to start IV's

The patient race - five people trying to beat each other in patient care...including giving pills, bandaging, helping to bed pan the patient, check their temperature, hilarious!

Our trouble maker patients/co-workers :)