Dr. Gary Parker Honored for Transforming Lives with Free Surgeries Across Africa
A surgeon whose career has been defined by compassion and service has been honored with one of the highest recognitions in his field. Dr. Gary Parker, 72, has received the prestigious Humanitarian Award from the American College of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (ACOMS) for nearly four decades of providing free, life-changing surgeries across Africa through Mercy Ships.
Since joining Mercy Ships in 1986, Dr. Parker has performed thousands of surgeries, helping patients with facial tumors, cleft lips and palates, noma, and other debilitating conditions. His work has restored health, dignity, and hope to children and adults in 18 African nations.
The award was presented during ACOMS’ 44th Annual Scientific Conference held in Savannah, Georgia on May 4, 2025, where Dr. Parker also delivered a lecture reflecting on his humanitarian journey.
“Dr. Parker’s lifelong dedication to providing surgical care to underserved populations truly embodies the spirit of the ACOMS Humanitarian Award,” said Melissa Admundson, DDS, a member of the ACOMS Board of Regents. “His work has changed thousands of lives.”
Dr. Parker, originally from Los Angeles, began his journey in oral and maxillofacial surgery at UCLA and later served in the UK’s National Health Service. A short-term volunteering opportunity with Mercy Ships in 1986 turned into a lifelong mission—both professionally and personally. Onboard, he met his wife Susan, who now serves as the international hospital chaplain. Together, they raised two children aboard the ship.
Throughout his career with Mercy Ships, Dr. Parker not only served as lead surgeon but also took on the role of Chief Medical Officer. His influence extends beyond surgeries; he mentors African surgeons and champions access to safe and affordable surgical care globally.
Dr. Parker’s humanitarian service has been recognized with numerous accolades, including national honors from countries like Senegal, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, and The Gambia. He also holds honorary fellowships from prestigious medical institutions in the U.S. and the UK.
Reflecting on the award, Dr. Parker said, “This recognition is a tribute to the courageous patients who trust us and to the Mercy Ships teams who serve with such dedication. Together, we’ve seen that when compassionate surgery meets human resilience, lives are restored and dignity reawakened.”
Each year, over 2,500 volunteers from more than 60 countries join Mercy Ships’ missions aboard the Africa Mercy® and the Global Mercy™, the world’s largest non-governmental hospital ships. These professionals—ranging from surgeons and nurses to cooks and engineers—bring vital healthcare to some of the world’s most underserved regions.
His previous awards include:
2022 – Commander of the National Order of the Lion, Republic of Senegal, Dakar
2018 – Daily Point of Light Award (Parker Family), USA
2018 – Knight of the Order of Valor, Republic of Cameroon, Douala
2017 – Kriser Medal, New York University, New York City
2014 – UCLA Medal, University of California, Los Angeles
2013 – AAOMS Humanitarian Award, American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Orlando
2012 – Honorary Fellowship, AAOMS, San Diego
2012 – UCLA School of Dentistry, Alumni of the Year, Los Angeles
2008 – President’s Lecture, British Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, Cardiff, UK
2007 – Fellowship by Election, Royal College of Surgeons, London, UK
2002 – Grand Commander, Order of the Republic of The Gambia, Serrekunda
2001 – Commandeur de l’Ordre National du Benin, Cotonou, Benin
1992 – Ordre de la Sante Publique, Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, Abidjan
