*photo by Ali Boyd

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The first time I heard of Mercy Ships, I was 14 years old and sitting excitedly in church as two missionaries talked of the work they did and the lives they changed. As they shared their stories and explained about the free healthcare and surgery that the ship offers to the people of Africa, I remember thinking that this was something I wanted to do someday. The team of volunteer doctors and nurses on the ship provide surgical and medical care, changing and improving thousands of lives, whilst a land based team works to create sustainable water, agriculture and education systems with the local communities.

 It's now 4 years later, and it's actually happening! At the end of March 2016, I will be travelling to Madagascar to join the crew aboard the Africa Mercy. I will be serving in the Ship Shop, Gift Shop and Café and Snack Bar for three months, helping to ensure the crew have everything they need whilst on the ship. I will also have the opportunity to spend time with some of the local people, and see first hand the life-changing difference that Mercy Ships offers to people who cannot easily access healthcare.

 However, I will not be paid for serving on the ship and will have to cover living costs, as well as paying for flights. I am aiming to raise £3000 to help make this possible, and would greatly appreciate any and all support. Your donations will help myself and Mercy Ships continue God's work in Madagascar and offer hope and a better quality of life to people who live in extreme poverty. Thank you for your support, and I look forward to sharing my experiences when I return!

UPDATE (22/06/16)

The ship is now in a shipyard in Durban, South Africa, undergoing maintenance and repairs after a week long sail from Madagascar. I was due to be departing the ship this coming weekend, but after a lot of prayer and discussion I have extended my time on board until 15th September, meaning that I will be sailing to Benin at the start of August to help set up the field service there. This was a huge decision, but I believe that God has not yet finished using me on this ship. As I am staying an extra 3 months, doubling my intended time on board, I will need to raise money to cover my additional crew fees and my flight home later this year. Many of you have already helped to get me out here, which I am hugely grateful for, but I still need your support. If you are able to donate, please do so and help me get to Benin to continue to work with this amazing charity. Thank you so much, and I look forward to sharing the next stage of my adventure with you.

 Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

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