A Mercy Ships Volunteer, a Floating Hospital, and an OOW Exam that truly mattered
By: Fred (but mainly Emma)
How did this all start?
Back in October last year, I received what looked like a fairly standard enquiry.
Femi wanted to know whether my course would help him pass his OOW unlimited oral exam.
Pretty standard question - but what wasn't standard was the boat he worked on, and the pressure on his shoulders.
Here’s some of that email:
"Well, firstly I've been fearful because I don't want to fail, considering that I am a simple volunteer on board the charity hospital ship called Mercy Ships.
My motivation for this profession stems from the humanitarian work Mercy Ships does to help thousands of poor Africans receive lifesaving surgery free of charge.
We struggle for volunteer deck officers - there's a great need for licensed deck officers on this ship - and I decided I need to upgrade from being an able seafarer into a deck officer, and potentially train many more deckhands in the future to help with this mission.
I have struggled with my studies up to this point, but I'm determined to get those stripes."
Let's face it - Femi's job is more important than most of ours
Femi has been volunteering on board the M/V Africa Mercy - a hospital ship run by Mercy Ships - for 16 years.
Mercy Ships provides free, lifesaving surgery to some of the poorest communities in Africa.
So we got him started on the course. One condition though – he had to pass – no pressure.
And did he pass?
Yes he did!
Femi worked incredibly hard. It’s not an easy exam at the best of times, and even harder when English is not your first language. But he did it – those stripes are officially his.
He recently sent me a Christmas message which made me smile:
"I have been serving as a volunteer for the past 16 years on Mercy Ships. I get financial donations from people to be able to serve with my family on the ship, but I must say that one of the greatest donations I've received is from you - supporting me to move from being an able Seafarer to a licensed deck officer."
Which made me think 🤔
I need to let people know about this great cause.
Interested in Volunteering?
If you fancy doing something meaningful with your maritime skills, or want to take some time out of superyachting, have a look at Mercy Ships. They're always looking for volunteers - deck officers, engineers, all sorts. It's not your typical contract and you won't be paid, but then again, helping a floating hospital save lives isn't exactly typical, is it?
If you'd like to know more, drop me a message and I'll put you in touch with Femi.
You can also support Mercy Ships by donating to help volunteers like Femi and his family continue their incredible work.
Check them out at mercyships.org
Well done Femi! – we’re very proud of you! You keep going and we will see you for your Masters!
Cheers
