Medical Reception

Over a hundred invited guests, representing Togo's health care interests, gathered for a medical reception aboard the Africa Mercy to view the hospital ship and learn about the medical services it offers during this field service.

Following refreshments, guests assembled in the International Lounge where they were welcomed by various department heads. Dr. Gary Parker, Chief Medical Officer, gave an overview of the medical services provided aboard the ship.

Then a video about the Ponseti Management Programme was shown. This programme, headed by Dr. James McDaniel, provides a method for reversing club foot in infants by using casts and manipulation.

Only minor surgery is required, with a brace worn for up to four years. The visual story of a baby born with a club foot being transformed into a toddler who could walk normally drew appreciation from the audience.

Dr. Frank Haydon, a member of the Ponseti team, made a plea for partners to help fund the implementation of this programme. He and Dr. McDaniel will be meeting with Togo's Minister of Health, His Excellency Kolman Mally, to explore ways to establish this procedure in Togo.

Guests enjoyed a tour of the hospital ship and afterward, they had an opportunity to ask questions.

Dr. Eli Agbobli Apesianyi, who represented the Minister of Health, said, "We take this opportunity to be grateful for the insight and wisdom you bring in to us. Surely, we know that you can make a difference. Many thanks, again, for the health you will give back to many Togolese people. In doing so, you are bringing back life and hope to many of them. Again, on behalf of the Minister of Health, we thank you. Let us take the opportunity to learn one from another."