31 July
On the River

The expedition's medical team, Dr. Sam Allen of London, Dr Michelle Phillips of Bristol, Graham Catchpole of Taunton and Cpl Jenny Campbell QARANC of Perth, are working with a guide from the Presbyterian de Manaus Church and the International Charity, 'Youth with a Mission'. Together they visit communities along the Rio Madeira treating people who lack regular access to doctors and dentists.

Many children have benefited from these health services, and in most cases timely interventions have prevented a number of children from acquiring permanent disabilities. The medical team was invited by one local school to treat children suffering from worm infections. There is evidence of leprosy and polio, but fortunately these diseases are gradually being eradicated following World Health Organisation (WHO) initiatives.

Just this morning a young couple arrived at our support boat with their baby who had taken ill. Having no doctor at their village, they travelled all night in an open boat to
reach us. Very sadly, Dr. Sam Allen found that the child was already dead.

Since the beginning of our expedition in May, dentist Graham Catchpole has extracted over 900 teeth, and is still hard at work. Whenever we meet local doctors, our medical team work alongside them, and cooperate with the local health services. From the overwhelming welcome our teams have received, our efforts seem to be greatly appreciated.