Catholic charity helps Filipino seafarer who fell overboard
Sister Marian Davey, chaplain of the Apostleship of the Sea in Suffolk, UK says seafarers face constant perils. AoS PHOTO
SAN FRANCISCO—Thanks to a Catholic charity in the UK, a Filipino seafarer who had fallen overboard but escaped death had a quick recovery and comfortable holiday season. The Filipino sailor was working aboard a ship at Felixstowe port in Suffolk, UK, when accidentally fell into the water.
His crewmates were able to rescue him by throwing a lifebuoy. Although weakened by the cold water, he was able to get ashore with help from his mates, according to an email from “The Helmsman” to Seafarer.com.
He was taken to hospital where he received medical attention and observation overnight and was given support by Catholic charity Apostleship of the Sea (AoS).
AoS Felixstowe port chaplain Sister Marian Davey visited the seafarer during his stay in hospital and after his discharge to a hotel.
Sister Davey also communicated with the seafarer’s family in the Philippines, arranged for his discharged from his employers and also for his return to the Philippines.
She spoke with his wife and daughter back home in the Philippines and kept them updated on his progress. She also liaised with the shipping company about his discharge arrangements and subsequent repatriation back home.
The Apostleship of the Sea gave him fare and spending money, and his crewmates were able to see him during his recovery.
Sister Davey said the incident just shows the dangers seafarers face day-to-day and the kind of support they often need.
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