Don Stephens

Don Stephens, founder of Mercy Ships, brings hope and healing to impoverished and forgotten communities worldwide. With over 35 years of experience, Mercy Ships has performed over 61,000 free surgeries and has treated over 2.35 million people in 53 developing nations and 17 developed nations. Don's organization treats all patients without cost, regardless of religion, race, or gender. The organization has also trained over 29,400 local medical professionals in areas such as anesthesia, sterilization, and surgery. Not only that, but Mercy Ships has completed nearly 1,100 community development projects such as water and sanitation, education, infrastructure development, and agriculture. In 2013, Don's board authorized the signing of a contract for a new purpose-built hospital ship to serve even more people. The new ship is set to arrive in late 2018 or early 2019.