Dr. Leo Cheng, one of Mercy Ships maxillofacial volunteer surgeons, was serving on board the newest hospital ship, the Global Mercy, last May, in Dakar, Senegal. During its time in Senegal, the ship’s volunteer’s team performed 875 complimentary surgeries, of which 238 were maxillofacial operations, with 76 of those patients being children.

Currently, the Global Mercy, the world largest civilian hospital ship is docked in Freetown, Sierra Leone, where it will remain till the end of June 2024. Dr. Leo Cheng is set to return on board in November to continue his free maxillofacial surgeries. The first operation in Freetown took place on September 12th, and it was a maxillofacial procedure.

Over the upcoming 10 months, the dedicated team aboard the ship is anticipated to conduct more than 2,350 lifesaving and life-changing surgeries. However, the mission of the Global Mercy extends beyond just surgical procedures. The ship’s team aims to collaborate with the Sierra Leone government to offer mentoring, training, and a platform to best assist patients and enhance the nation’s healthcare system.

Through this combination of direct surgical care and training, Mercy Ships remains committed to its goal of delivering hope and healing to those in need.