"We became a volunteer family for a few reasons," said Tammy Dunne. "Firstly, because we wanted to give something back as we feel so blessed; secondly, because we felt that God has called us step out in faith to do this relying on His provision; and thirdly – why not?"
Her husband Mick, who spent 23 years in the Royal Australian Navy, first learnt about Mercy Ships 10 years ago. "As a marine engineer, he had always felt called to serve in a voluntary capacity but hadn't realised where he could serve."
After deciding on Mercy Ships, Mr and Mrs Dunne left their jobs, sold their car, rented out the family home and undertook a six week introductory course in Texas before joining the Africa Mercy on its sail to the Republic of the Congo. "It has made us evaluate what we need as opposed to what we want. It has made us be more deliberate in the decisions we make as a family. It has also forced us to become more humble as we have had to seek help to get our life packed up in Australia and to ask for prayer when we have really needed it."
"We have been fortunate to have donations from family and friends. We also have some savings," Mrs Dunne said. "Mick's former company, Capability Partners, paid for our training and Newington Family Medical Practice, in particular Dr Adnan Khan, gave us a discount on our seagoing medicals. At this stage, our funding will almost cover our commitment to serve."
While Mr Dunne works as Third Engineer onboard the Africa Mercy, responsible for the vessel's generators and auxiliary systems, Mrs Dunne works in staff training and as an interim PE teacher. Their three sons – Jack, 12, Mark, 9, and Harry, 6 – attend the onboard school for the children of the ship's crew.
"Our boys have managed the changes very well. As the school is small, the boys seem to be getting a good amount of attention and are enthusiastically tackling their school work and homework. And there are plenty of extra-curricular activities for them to pursue."
"With respect to the hospital, a big challenge may be dealing with what we see – things that we haven't seen before that are confronting and how to help our children interpret and understand what they see," Mrs Dunne continued.
"God willing, if we come back to Australia and our three boys are more compassionate towards other people, with a bigger view of the world, then that would be awesome. If Mick and I have contributed to the mission of the ship, by doing our jobs, then we will be thrilled. Hopefully, we will get to know some of the Congolese people and find out their stories, too.''