Martha Henderson is the manager of radiology services with Mercy Ships. She has a CT tech background. She holds several certifications and degrees, including MSc, BSc Diagnostic Radiography, PG Cert in CT (British). She works on MV Global Mercy (NGO Hospital Ship).
Her imaging journey started in Scotland.
“Growing up in the Highlands of Scotland, living and working in small communities has always been part of me. A friend’s mother was a radiographer, and she would show us different X-rays and the fractures identified,” Henderson recalls about her youth. “I was curious and fascinated that it was possible to learn more about the human body in this way. I graduated in 2008 and have worked in remote and rural hospitals in Scotland. This prepared me for working with Mercy Ships as it taught me adaptability and provided a varied foundation of clinical experiences and pathology.”
She says her greatest accomplishment was taking a leap of faith.
“Taking the first step into international work in 2012. I always knew my path would take me into the humanitarian setting, however as a CT technologist I was not exactly sure how that would unfold,” Henderson said. “Often, surgical and medical missions rely on nurses and doctors. Finding Mercy Ships – and knowing they had a full radiology department onboard their ship – I found my calling. The organization now has two hospital ships and I feel incredibly honored to have set up the radiology equipment and services onboard.”
“Earlier this year, I completed my master’s in applied global health with a focus on global radiology service delivery. I feel incredibly grateful that my experiences allow me to raise the radiology profile amongst the conversation of global surgery,” she added.
Work does not feel like a job for Henderson because she loves what she does.
“Daily, I get to interact with patients from West Africa and learn about their culture and family. Volunteering on a hospital ship, you get to work alongside colleagues from around the world, to learn from their training and experiences really grows you as a professional,” she said. “Also knowing that radiology is a profession that can take you around the world and provide the opportunity for you to use your skills in many different countries and locations.”
“As the manager, I am responsible for ensuring we have highly trained CT techs who volunteer onboard, who provide CT and X-ray examinations for the patients who come onboard. This role also allows me to interact with many different radiology vendors and those collaborations are extremely rewarding,” she added.
Henderson explained that her approach to leadership is centered on helping others.
“I have learned in a humanitarian setting, that delivering health care is a complex, multifaceted system, working with colleagues who view the world from a different perspective. There are often layers we do not see, and its important to understand that communication can be difficult,” she said. “Setting a vision for where you see a service going is important, however that must be balanced with involving your team and making space for them to own the project they are working on, and to develop areas where they see improvement.”
Her leadership style was formed with influence from those who came before her.
“Some of the humblest leaders I have worked with demonstrate a willingness to empower their colleagues. To trust their judgment and experience, yet to remain open to provide advice or suggestions when needed,” Henderson said. “I feel the most effective mentors, allow you to provide your own solution to a problem that has arisen, rather than being the one who always has the answer.”
1. What is the last book you read? Or, what book are you reading currently? I always go back and enjoying reading “To Kill A Mockingbird.” I find it incredibly powerful with its themes of injustice and empathy for others.
2. Favorite movie? “Salmon fishing in the Yemen” While a bit unique in storyline, the landscape filming is beautiful to watch. It is inspiring to see what can be possible, yet one must consider the cultural and political setting in which this occurs. Yet, it is a heartwarming film.
3. What is one thing you do every morning to start your day? But first coffee. Then, I usually read the to-do list from the day before and number the items in importance to help guide my day.
4. Best advice you ever received? “When you are being asked to do something that has never been done before, you can’t look around at others. Have the confidence to go forward and trust your own experience and calling.”
5. Who has had the biggest influence on your life? Dr. Gary Parker is the head of our maxillofacial surgical program. He has dedicated 36 years (and counting) to providing free surgeries to patients with disfiguring benign facial tumors. Through his skill and dedication, patient lives are transformed. It is a privilege to support him and his surgical team.
6. What would your superpower be? Working internationally, involves a lot of travel. While I do enjoy sailing with our ship to a new country, I would love the ability to teleport. To arrive where I need to be without spending hours in airports.
7. What is your perfect meal? When I am home in Scotland, fresh seafood from the local fish shop is always a delight.
In Focus Nomination
