Hospital ship nurse tells of joy of work; BREAKING HEALTH newsbulletin.

A WELSH nurse has spoken of her work onboard the world's largest charity hospital ship.

Ana Glover, a paediatric nurse from Neath, is spending a year on the Africa Mercy, working in Togo.

The 32-year-old said: "Being a nurse on the Africa Mercy is very different to being a one at home. I'm seeing conditions which would not be presented in the UK.

"Also it's great to see so many different nurses from different nationalities come together and work together for the first time. Putting the patient first at all times is a fantastic experience. It really is an inspirational charity.

"It's humbling to see patients who are so happy and grateful for what we have done for them. I feel privileged to have helped change their lives and give them hope. Seeing their faces light up when they realise they've been healed is a precious moment."

Judy Polkinhorn, executive director of Mercy Ships UK, said: "Mercy Ships simply would not be able to carry on with the work that we do if not for the dedicated nurses, like Ana, who give up their time every year and volunteer.

"Mercy Ships requires around 750 nurses to volunteer each year and the dedication and commitment of those nurses who volunteer is admired and cherished. We would like to thank each one for all their hard work."