A New Day

After a long night the swelling eases, and he begins to learn to breathe through his restored face and palate. Sparkle has returned to his eyes and his mother finally relaxes on his bed. They play catch with a blue balloon and enter into all the activity and energy in D ward.

Would she have made this choice had she known how difficult that first night would be? How could she deny him that chance? His journey is not yet over, but correction at such an early age may allow him to quickly catch up to the others in speech and as his scars fade he will take his place among the boys of his community.

I am so blessed to work here. Gary Parker is so much more than a gifted surgeon. His compassion and love for the poor and broken of Africa is the foundation of hope and trust that marks Mercy Ships. He is a remarkable artist. Creating works not on canvas or sculpted from marble but rather molded from scarred and broken faces. Tissues are carefully dissected, meticulously fashioned and repositioned to form something beautiful. Each patient has his full attention and to each he gives his best work. To those with nothing has been given a gift beyond price. Though not perfect, there is something very special, almost holy, that fills this place. And I have the privilege to work among them.