Transformed from Rescued to Rescuer – Daily Star

Freetown – Found as an infant by a veterinarian in Kenya and later embraced by a family from the UK, 31-year-old occupational therapist Becky Chaplin has completed her journey.

Currently, she leads the rehabilitation service on the Global Mercy, the largest civilian hospital ship dedicated to humanitarian efforts, run by the international charity Mercy Ships (MercyShips.org).

Becky’s path is characterized by resilience, identity, and a commitment to service.

Abandoned at birth while still attached to her umbilical cord, she was rescued by a passing vet and adopted by a British missionary couple when she was seven weeks old.

“Mum said that as soon as she held me, she felt a divine message saying ‘this is your daughter,’” Becky recalled, beaming with pride. “I’m Kenyan by birth but British by adoption.”

As she grew up in both Kenya and the UK, she values her dual heritage and uses her distinct perspective to bridge cultural gaps in her profession.

“Living in Kenya, I saw both sides of the spectrum,” she reflected.

“I encountered extreme poverty and the life-changing influence of education. I was fortunate to be adopted by a family that provided me that opportunity.”

Her early education spanned both countries, allowing her to experience a range of schooling systems.

When she was ten, her family moved to the UK, where she continued her studies.

“I believe I represent both cultures. I can connect with various people from different backgrounds.”

This realization led her to become an occupational therapist.

After working in multiple hospitals in the UK, especially in burn and hand therapy, Becky felt a pull to volunteer her skills abroad. In 2023, she joined Mercy Ships for a three-month sabbatical in Senegal.

“I absolutely loved it. It was wonderful being back in an African country among people who look like me,” she shared.

Now, as the Rehabilitation Team Leader aboard the Global Mercy, Becky is part of a diverse crew of volunteers providing free surgeries and medical training to strengthen local healthcare systems.

She manages post-operative rehabilitation for patients recovering from life-changing surgeries, many of whom are children dealing with severe burns or congenital issues.

A ten-year-old girl from Senegal with a contracture is one of the patients who left a significant mark on Becky.

“She pushed me to creatively weave exercises into play,” Becky explained.

“We painted, drew, and decorated the walls together. It was a meaningful process because it wasn’t just straightforward.

“Nonetheless, the joy and fulfillment of achieving the desired movements were immense.”

As the Global Mercy embarks on its next mission to Sierra Leone, Becky’s story exemplifies the core purpose of Mercy Ships: delivering hope and healing where it’s needed most.

For anyone contemplating a service opportunity with Mercy Ships, Becky offers this straightforward advice: “If you’re looking for a rewarding experience that challenges you and aids your growth, then this is for you.

“You’re not merely giving; you’re also gaining priceless lessons and experiences. My recommendation is to take that leap of faith, and you won’t regret it.”

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