Published 02/03/2012 - 7:15 a.m. CST
GARDEN VALLEY, TX - Today is “Give Kids a Smile
Day.” While many dentists in the U.S. will
contribute time to provide free oral health care
services to children from low-income families
across the country, Mercy Ships volunteer dental
professionals are also doing the same and more in
Lomé, Togo, alongside the Africa Mercy, the
world’s largest privately owned hospital ship. In
essence, the dental team celebrates “Bring Kids a
Smile Day” everyday.
Dr. Doug Daehlin, from
Spokane, Washington, is one of more than 400 Mercy
Ships crew members, including dental team and
oral/maxillofacial team members, who are currently
volunteering their expertise in Togo. “While there
are lots of opportunities to be a volunteer
dentist around the world, I was immediately drawn
to Mercy Ships. During my volunteer service, I
will work side-by-side with dental colleagues from
other parts of the U.S. and around the world. Our
collaboration and exchange is an invaluable
experience,” stated Dr. Daehlin.