Communication Down

The Kusuri Clinic and Medical Base is very remote. The Island of Halmahera is one of the approximate 17,000 islands in the nation of Indonesia. It is a very historic place also know as the Spice Islands. The Dutch, Portuguese and Japanese controlled these islands over the years. The islands are amazing and the rich volcanic soil and the tropical climate make is a rare growing environment. It is so beautiful and yet it is remote. The Kusuri base does not have phone connection. We have a satellite connection in order to maintain email communication.

It works well but on occasion we have either a problem with the access to the satellite. I maintain regular contact with Peter Scarborough with regular updates and communication about the work. I got a note from Peter that he lost the satellite connection. He went methodically over each of the components and it would not connect. He had to travel 20 miles to the nearest city to send an email. There is one business which has computer access. Their on-line service is on and off--mostly off. Peter was able send me a note and inform me about the loss of satellite access.

We are working on getting the needed equipment and problem solve the possible problem. It just reminded me how easily the lines of communication can be disrupted can how important it is to maintain contact.