GUINEA – Gamai was just a toddler growing up in Guinea, West Africa, when she pulled a pot of boiling water over and badly burned her arms. Her parents rushed her to the hospital but were only given ointment for treatment. Because she didn’t get proper care for her burns, Gamai’s arms healed in a constricted position—leaving her unable to straighten either arm. Over the next four years, Gamai grew more aware that she was not like other children. She wanted to play, to go to school, and even help her mother around the house—but the scars from her burns left her unable to straighten her severely deformed arms. And the stinging insults of people on the street made her hide at home. Each year, Gamai grew more isolated. When Gamai’s mother learned that Mercy Ships helps provide free surgery for people who suffered burns, it was an answer to the family’s prayers. Onboard the Africa Mercy, Gamai and her mother met other burn survivors. They were relieved to find this place of acceptance and mercy.

On the day of her surgery, Gamai’s mother was nervous. She knew her daughter faced a painful and complicated procedure. When Gamai returned from surgery, she was in pain—but her arms were straight for the first time in years.

After several weeks of therapy to restore Gamai’s mobility she can now freely lift and straighten her arms. She can play, go to school, help her mother with chores, and have the normal life of any other little girl.

About Mercy Ships

Mercy Ships is a global charity that was founded in 1978 by Don and Deyon Stephens. Since that time, Mercy Ships has performed services valued at more than $1 billion, impacting more than 2.48 million of the world’s most desperate people. More than 581 port visits have been completed in 57 nations.

Hospital ships are used to transform lives and serve nations one at a time. A ship is the most efficient platform to deliver a state-of-the-art-hospital to regions where clean water, electricity, medical facilities and skilled personnel is limited to nonexistent. And because more than 50% of the world’s population lives within 100 miles of a port city, a hospital ship can reach many people who need care.

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