By Canti Yohana
Discovering the Need for Medical Outreach in Remote Villages
In October 2024, Tzu Chi volunteers in Kalimantan Tengah, Indonesia, discovered a remote village called Desa Tumbang Manjul in Kabupaten Seruyan Hulu, severely lacking in medical facilities.
Upon investigation, the volunteers found the journey to the village extremely challenging. Poor road conditions often left vehicles stranded, especially in bad weather. "Traveling 180 kilometers on damaged roads, even with four-wheel-drive vehicles, takes over eight hours," said Ridwan Ashari, a volunteer who participated in the initial survey.
Seeing the dire need for medical care, the volunteers decided to organize a medical outreach, not only for Desa Tumbang Manjul but also for neighboring villages like Desa Marandang, Desa Tumbang Suei, and Desa Tusuk Belawan, which faced similar challenges.
The Journey Begins
On December 9, 2024, 75 volunteers and medical personnel set out for Seruyan Hulu. After an entire day of travel, crossing 18 villages, they reached their destination. "It was a unique journey, filled with winding roads for eight hours," recalled Tuti Purwasih, a first-time volunteer. Despite the exhaustion, the warm reception from the villagers turned their fatigue into joy.
The next morning, the volunteers arrived in Desa Tumbang Manjul. Villagers started arriving early for the medical services. Volunteers Kuspan, Hasanudin, Rachmad, and Wisnu warmly greeted each patient, offering them comfort and care. With many villagers speaking only their local dialect, Devita Nianti, a volunteer from Kalimantan, acted as a crucial bridge, facilitating communication and bringing smiles and laughter to the interactions.
Continuous Support for Patients
The volunteers accompanied the patients throughout their check-ups, while the medical team educated them on basic health knowledge. "This is my first time participating in such an outreach, especially in a remote area like Seruyan Hulu. The rugged journey was challenging, but the experience was incredibly meaningful. I hope to continue serving areas with limited medical resources in the future," said Dr. Regina.
At the medication distribution area, three local healthcare workers collaborated with volunteers, patiently explaining the prescribed medication instructions. The outreach was warmly welcomed by the villagers. Fatmawati, a villager from Desa Tumbang Manjul, expressed her gratitude, saying, "I rushed here right after returning from the fields. I am very grateful for the medicine provided by the volunteers. I hope you all live long and healthy lives!"
Spreading Love Through Medical Outreach
On December 11, the volunteers traveled to Desa Marandang and Desa Tumbang Suei. Despite the steep and forested roads, their enthusiasm remained undeterred. They were determined to spread love and care through the medical outreach.
Volunteers Indra Manurung and Chris Siahaan skillfully accompanied the patients. For Riska, another volunteer, the experience was unforgettable. "The road to the village was full of potholes and very rough, but being able to help made me very happy," she said.
Continuing the Mission of Love
On December 12, the outreach entered its third day, continuing in Desa Tumbang Suei and Desa Tusuk Belawan. Children joyfully welcomed the volunteers, and villagers eagerly assisted in organizing the event, helping with medication sorting and setting up tables and chairs, creating a comfortable environment for the patients. Over three days, the outreach served a total of 549 villagers across four villages.
"I am grateful the villagers came to the outreach, but I am also concerned about their situation. There is only one midwife here, and her contract ended on October 13, 2024. For medical care, villagers must travel to the distant Desa Tumbang Manjul," Devita said.
The outreach not only served adults and the elderly but also cared for children. Throughout the event, the warm interactions between the volunteers and villagers filled the atmosphere with joy and laughter. The volunteers' presence aimed to enhance the physical and mental well-being of the villagers.
