The YWAM Medical Ships received a cheque for K500,000 from West New Britain Governor, Sasindran Muthuvel, last week, on behalf of the West New Britain Provincial Government.
The cheque is a fulfilment of a pledge toward operational expenses for YWAM’s training and medical ship, the MV Pacific Link.
The MV Pacific Link set sail to West New Britain for the first time this month. The vessel will spend a number of months in the province, delivering healthcare and training to remote communities in collaboration with provincial health authorities.
YWAM Medical Ships Director, Brett Curtis, said he was grateful for West New Britain’s strong support.
“We are really looking forward to developing our partnership with West New Britain’s provincial administration as we work together to deliver healthcare and training to remote coastal and island communities in the province.
“Since 2010, YWAM Medical Ships has delivered over 700,000 healthcare and training services to hundreds of remote villages in PNG.
“There are many stories of lives that have been transformed, including Willie – he had been blind for 11 years. After a 30 minute cataract operation, his sight was restored.
"I'll never forget the shouts of joy from family members and patients as the patches were removed, Willie couldn’t wait to go home to be re-introduced to his grandchildren, what a special moment of joy to witness.
“It is wonderful to see our work expanding in West New Britain, we are very much looking forward to what is to come,” said Curtis.
In collaboration with West New Britain provincial health authorities, the MV Pacific Link and her team of volunteers will deliver immunisations, maternal health services, dentistry procedures, eye care, health promotion, and collegial support and mentoring for local health workers.
Governor Muthuvel said he was looking forward to welcoming the MV Pacific Link to his province this month.
“We have some real challenges when it comes to delivering healthcare to the remote coastal and island communities in our province.
“By partnering with YWAM Medical Ships, the ship gives us the capacity to bring supplies, services, and health professionals to the places that need it most. I’m very proud to be supporting this program,” said Governor Muthuvel.
The MV Pacific Link arrives in Kimbe for the first time today.
Picture: Governor Muthuvel with MV Pacific Link ship manager, Julie McLaughlin