For many, the hospital ship arrives too late — their condition has progressed beyond the point where medical intervention will bring healing. While those with terminal illnesses are suffering, their families are also suffering alongside them.

The Mercy Ships Palliative Care team assists these patients and families during this sensitive time. We train family and caretakers to meet the physical needs of these patients.

Often, terminally ill patients are the primary breadwinners in their families. In these cases, Mercy Ships works with surviving family members to help develop new income opportunities.

We follow the model of Jesus as we tenderly care for these patients and their grieving families, and we also invite local religious leaders to offer spiritual and practical support.