About

My name is Ayla Lopez and Two years ago, I stepped onto a ship that would change my life forever…

Before I joined Mercy Ships, I wasn’t a Christian. I had spent years wandering—chasing meaning across countries, experiences, and relationships—yet no matter how far I went, I carried an unshakable emptiness inside. I thought fulfillment could be found in adventure or in people, but nothing ever settled the ache of being lost.

Everything changed when I came to Mercy Ships. In the simple act of serving others, I encountered Jesus. In His presence, I was redeemed. For the first time, I realized that I was deeply and unconditionally loved. The weight of my past no longer defined me. Old wounds began to heal, and I stepped into a new identity—one grounded in faith, hope, and purpose.

Through nursing, I discovered my calling. What began as an opportunity to volunteer on a hospital ship grew into a mission. Today, I work with the Educations, Training and Advocacy team, helping strengthen Sierra Leone’s healthcare system for the future. My passion is not just to provide care in the moment, but to help build something lasting—change that continues long after the ship has sailed.

This is my story: a journey of redemption, healing, and renewed purpose. And this space is where I share the lessons, challenges, and miracles I’ve encountered along the way.