Freetown, Sierra Leone – September 2, 2025. The Global Mercy™, the world’s largest purpose-built civilian hospital ship, has officially launched her third consecutive field service in Sierra Leone, with the successful surgery of its very first patient, 40-year-old kekeh driver Mohamed. This pivotal moment represents the beginning of a mission dedicated to providing hope and healing while strengthening the nation’s anesthetic and surgical systems.

Now 12 years old, David's journey began in the quiet village of Sama Nywalinga, nestled at the end of a long, dusty road, 120 miles from Sierra Leone's second-largest town of Bo. His world changed forever when, at just a year old, a boiling pot of water spilled on him in a tragic accident.

In a landmark moment for Sierra Leone’s healthcare system, the country’s first-ever cohort of physiotherapy graduates earned their Bachelor of Science (B.S) degrees in 2023. This achievement marked a significant step in addressing the critical shortage of rehabilitation professionals.