LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — A decades-long partnership between the Lima Rotary Club and Mercy Health St. Rita’s is continuing to make an impact in developing countries. On Thursday, eight incubators and several wheelchairs were loaded to begin their journey overseas as part of Rotary District 6600 Medical Equipment and Supplies Abroad program, better known as MESA.
MESA, established in 1981, provides medical supplies to communities in need. Scott Salyers, MESA’s director of operations, said the donated equipment is highly valued. “Recently, I was in Belize, and we've seen some of their clinics and hospitals there, and the equipment they have is very old and worn out. They’re very appreciative of the stuff we give them, and they put it to good use,” Salyers said.
Matt Etzkorn, vice president of Mission at Mercy Health Lima, emphasized the importance of incubators in supporting infant health. “Incubators are so important to developing a microclimate for infants so they can heal and grow in an environment where they don’t lose their body heat. We want to make sure those who need this technology can benefit from it,” Etzkorn said.
Through the MESA program, the Lima Rotary Club and Mercy Health Saint Rita’s continue to provide essential equipment to hospitals and clinics abroad, helping improve healthcare outcomes in underserved communities.
