Calling All Yachties! Calling All Yachties! Calling All Yachties!
Whether you are sailing on the high seas or sailing with me virtually on the Internet, Dr Ricardo Fernandez needs your help.
I first learned of Ricardo from our friends Audrey and Adam while we were Beach Fale hopping in Savai’I, Samoa. They had met Ricardo earlier during their trip and were impressed by his commitment to the Samoan people in his care.
Ricardo was educated at University of Sydney, chose to do his residency in Samoa, and fell in love with the people. He recently returned to Samoa after completing specialty studies at Harvard.
He could work anywhere, but feels called to aid the people of Samoa. He is currently working in the villages of Savai’i and will return to work at the hospital in Apia, Upolu in the near future.
I was moved by his story and jumped at the chance to accompany Audrey on a trip to visit him at his current residence, the Joelan Fales on Lano Beach. The Captain joined us for the adventure.
A significant challenge faced by Ricardo is securing basic medical supplies for patient care. Not only is this a problem in the villages, but can also sometimes be a challenge in the Apia hospital as we subsequently learned from Dr James, a former colleague of Ricardo’s in Apia.
Needed supplies include surgical gloves, antiseptic ointments and solutions (Betadine), antiseptic liquids (Dettol), gauze, sterile adhesive bandages, paracetamol, and insect repellant.
If you are a visiting Samoa by yacht or live near a post office, please bring/send supplies to Dr Ricardo Fernandez c/o Joelan Beach Fales, Lano Beach, Savai’i, Samoa.
