Mercer on Mission is a dedicated team of 53 professors, doctors, technicians, and students from Mercer University in Macon, Georgia, who are making a significant impact in Vietnam. This compassionate group has traveled to Kien Giang Province, southern Vietnam, to offer their expertise and assistance to those in need.
Through their efforts, 600 low-income individuals with musculoskeletal pain are receiving free medical examinations, and 360 people who have experienced the trauma of losing limbs in traffic accidents or wars are being fitted with life-changing prosthetics. It’s a project that brings hope and restores independence.
The value of the medical equipment and supplies provided by Mercer on Mission is estimated at nearly VND4.4 billion (US$172,000). This generous contribution is making a direct impact on the lives of those they serve.
Phan Thanh Son, a 62-year-old resident of Duong Dong Ward in Phu Quoc City, shared his story. He lost his leg during the war in Cambodia in 1988, and while he had received a prosthetic leg from local authorities in the past, it eventually broke. Thanks to Mercer on Mission, he now has a new prosthetic leg. “I am able to continue fishing to support my family,” he said, expressing his gratitude. “I can now walk on such a comfortable artificial leg.”
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| A Mercer on Mission doctor fits a life-changing prosthetic leg to a disabled resident in Kien Giang Province. Photo: Buu Dau / Tuoi Tre |
Truong Thang Tran, chairman of the Sponsoring Association for Poor Patients in Kien Giang Province, commended the team’s efforts: “The musculoskeletal check-up and prosthetic limb attachment program is meaningful and empowering. It enables disabled individuals to regain their independence and actively contribute to the province’s economic growth.”
This is not Mercer on Mission’s first trip to Kien Giang Province. In fact, it’s their third time providing free medical check-ups and treatment to the poor in the region. Their dedication and commitment are evident, as they continue to make a lasting impact on the community.
During their 2023 visit, the group provided musculoskeletal check-ups and prosthetic limbs to over 1,200 poor patients, further emphasizing their commitment to making a difference.
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| Mercer On Mission in action: Sponsoring a $172,000 program to provide essential medical services to nearly 1,000 underprivileged individuals in Kien Giang Province. Photo: Buu Dau / Tuoi Tre |
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