The parents of Emmanuel, a three-year-old boy from Sierra Leone, are celebrating a life-changing milestone after volunteers aboard the charity hospital ship Global Mercy™ removed a large and painful growth from his face.
Emmanuel had lived with the condition since birth, and his family had endured years of social stigma, financial strain, and fruitless medical consultations before finding help.
Emmanuel’s mother, Manteneh, first noticed a white swelling near his ear shortly after birth. The swelling worsened despite her efforts, and local doctors could only prescribe pain medication for his rare condition, lymphangioma—a noncancerous abnormality of the lymphatic system that can cause severe complications.
Doctors explained that if untreated, the growth could compress facial nerves, leading to disfigurement and impaired movement. The family’s situation was dire, with Emmanuel’s father, Yirah, a student, and Manteneh, a tailor, forced to stop working to care for him.
Hope arrived with a public announcement that the Global Mercy, operated by the nonprofit Mercy Ships, would be providing free specialized surgeries in Sierra Leone. The family relocated to Freetown, overcoming financial and logistical challenges to ensure Emmanuel received care.
“There are significant barriers for patients with conditions like this,” said Mollie Felder, a volunteer nurse aboard the ship. “In Sierra Leone, there are no maxillofacial surgeons and only one pediatric surgeon, making advanced care inaccessible to most families.”
After several preparatory procedures, Emmanuel underwent surgery to remove the mass. The operation was a success, and he quickly regained his playful nature. His parents were overwhelmed with relief and gratitude, comparing his recovery to a rebirth.
“When he came home from surgery, it was like we had just given birth to Emmanuel,” said Yirah. “The entire community was very happy. People were saying Emmanuel is a newborn baby!”
The boy’s transformation brought joy not only to his family but also to their community, who celebrated his newfound health. Emmanuel now enjoys playing with friends, free from pain and stigma, while his parents look forward to a brighter future.
This inspiring story highlights the impact of organizations like Mercy Ships, bridging gaps in healthcare for the world’s most vulnerable populations.