Belfast Anaesthetist Awarded MBE for Service with Mercy Ships

Dr. Michael McBrien, a consultant anaesthetist based in Belfast, has been awarded an MBE by the Princess Royal at Windsor Castle. The honor recognizes his long-term commitment to Mercy Ships, a Christian medical charity that has operated hospital ships along the African coast since 1978. Dr. McBrien has volunteered with the organization since 2011, recently completing his 16th mission.

Mercy Ships reports that approximately 2,500 medical professionals volunteer annually to address the lack of accessible surgical care in sub-Saharan Africa, where the charity estimates that 90 percent of the population lacks access to safe surgery. This year, the organization performed 3,000 surgeries. Reflecting on his service, Dr. McBrien highlighted the life-changing impact of these procedures, specifically recalling the successful treatment of a patient with a severe facial tumor. He dedicated the award to the broader volunteer crew, describing himself as a small part of a larger team effort.