How you can help in the Red Sea

Created by doina. Last modified on 2006-03-08 12:27:34
Contributors:
Countries: Egypt, Eritrea, Yemen

Yachties are often looking for ways to help in areas they visit. They carry books to the Caribbean, build houses, nurse, teach and respond to disasters. Often though, we would like to help but haven't identified an area of need.

A few years ago we were in the Red Sea and spent some time in one of the interesting and popular anchorages, Suakin, Sudan. My husband has a tendency towards high blood pressure and we carried a proper sphignometer which we eventually upgraded to one of the easier devices. I happened across the old one at anchor and we decided to try to find the local hospital and donate it. We also gathered together old reading (magnifying) glasses. We kept asking and the Sudanese kept pointing (south of the anchorage by the way) and we finally arrived at a very spartan concrete structure. No one would take our possessions, they said the doctor had to receive them. We kept collecting helpful types and finally our small group was led to the doctor's house. He was asleep and we were told to wait while they woke him. Finally we came face to face with a very young doctor who spoke some English but seemed shocked at our arrival. We explained ourselves and handed over our meagre gifts. He thanked us but still seemed uncertain as he watched us move off through the dust, dogs and curious town folks.

Part two of this story begins with our recent reacquaintance with friends who just completed a circumnavigation. The man contracted dengue fever which became full strength in Suakin. They decided it would be prudent to seek medical advice and they too found their way to the hospital on the edge of town As she described it they were ushered into the doctors office, a spartan affair with a couple of chairs, a table, and a sphignometer proudly displayed (and used) as the only instrument.

So, here it is, a way to help. They could probably use everything from medical equipment, medicine, braces and bandages, right through to sheets, blankets, towels, hygiene products, even coffee, tea and sugar. I would suggest all donations go to the hospital since they can identify those in need for anything they cannot use. Yachties could even buy something in Thailand where most things are pretty cheap and available.

Have fun and enjoy the Red Sea. It is not as bad as its reputation if you allow plenty of time and enjoy what it has to offer on the way. We loved it!

Wendy Weigman