MAF in Liberia plays a crucial role in strengthening rural healthcare by
supporting the J.J. Dossen Memorial Hospital in Harper with emergency patient transfers, the transport of medical supplies and enabling healthcare workers to reach remote communities swiftly and safely.
“I didn’t think my son would survive,” said Lue Harris, her voice trembling. “Seeing his hand look burned and his nose decline was terrifying.”
In February, George Alison, a young boy, began suffering from persistent abdominal pain, hand swelling, weakness and intense skin itching. His condition quickly deteriorated, leading to a severe soft tissue infection that disfigured his hand and caused tissue damage to his nose, resulting in a partially collapsed, ‘melting’ appearance.
“I am grateful to God and to the medical team who took care of my son,” she added. “Please keep praying for his full healing.”
One of the caring professionals working at the hospital in Harper is Patience Toe a paediatric nurse known for her passion and perseverance. She sees cases like George’s far too often.
“We see too many cases where a child could have been treated early, but by the time they reach us, it’s critical,” Patience said. “Some recover and are discharged, while others are tragically lost in the process.”
“The team doesn’t just fight illness they fight time, distance and poverty.”
“The team doesn’t just fight illness they fight time, distance and poverty.”
“To maintain this level of care in a remote setting, partnerships are essential,” said Charles Jarsor, Director of Nursing and Midwifery. “One of the most vital partnerships is with Mission Aviation Fellowship flights.”
Charles flew from Monrovia to Harper in order to reach his post at the hospital. It’s a short journey by air, saving him from a three-hour road-trip in the dry season. But when roads are affected by the wet season, the journey by car can be a week-long ordeal.
“MAF helps us fly critically ill patients to Monrovia in just 90 minutes – a journey that would otherwise take days,” Charles said. “Their flights are more than just transportation they are a lifeline.”
MAF helps us fly critically ill patients to Monrovia in just 90 minutes.
J.J. Dossen Memorial Hospital not only serves people from the local Maryland County, but also assists people from neighbouring areas such as Grand Kru, River Gee and Sinoe. In fact, some patients come from the capital, Monrovia, and even from across the border in Ivory Coast.
MAF’s invaluable support ensures that people from these remote communities continue to receive the care they need in a timely and efficient manner, despite the vast distances and logistical challenges.
“I’ve flown internationally, and no flight has ever prayed before take-off. But with MAF, they pray before each flight and that spiritual grounding speaks volumes,” added Charles.
“We are thankful for MAF’s continued assistance in helping us care for our patients and strengthen our healthcare system.
“Without MAF, so many people would not have access to urgent care.”
As Charles reflects on Liberia’s future, he calls on MAF and others to keep praying – not just for patients, but for change at the highest levels.
“Since MAF is a Christian and charitable organisation, I would encourage them to keep praying for our country for good leaders who will prioritise healthcare and improve the system,” he said.
“Because truly, health is wealth.”
Since MAF is a Christian and charitable organisation, I would encourage them to keep praying for our country for good leaders who will prioritise healthcare and improve the system.