Indonesia: Devastation as far as the eye can see
"I’ve been to many disasters as an emergency responder, but this one is definitely one of the worst. And this is just Palu. I can’t even imagine the situation in other cities."
The darkness of death. The smell of death. The silence of death. Over 1,300 deaths and counting.
This is what we are experiencing as one of the first teams on the ground in the aftermath of the earthquake and tsunami.
There’s no chaos. Just nothing. It’s a strange feeling. Miraculously, we found a tiny spot in the center of the city with some electricity, but still – no people around.
There is no light – save for the headlights of the few cars that are moving around this city.
We were picked up from the airport by military ambulance. The two officers were exhausted but committed to helping anyone who needed help.
On the sidewalks through the darkness we can make out the sleeping forms of people. Some are sitting and talking quietly. All are in fear of the aftershocks.
Although it is very hot, some people are gathered around big fires – preferring the light in spite of the heat. They need the reassurance of seeing each other.
The suffering is palpable. The suffering of those who are leaving. The suffering of those who are staying. Mothers with children stand in long lines at the airport hoping and praying that they will be able to take the next flight out of the city
The suffering is palpable. The suffering of those who are leaving. The suffering of those who are staying. Mothers with children stand in long lines at the airport hoping and praying that they will be able to take the next flight out of the city. But even they are sad, suffering. They are leaving their homes, their loved ones – some who may be dead, some still missing.
We’ll be sleeping on the ground in sleeping bags in an abandoned office building. We brought water and protein bars with us as we were advised to bring basic supplies that will last a few days. We are relieved to know more support is coming and two doctors and three nurses will join the team tomorrow.
I’ve been to many disasters as an emergency responder, but this one is definitely one of the worst. And this is just Palu. I can’t even imagine the situation in other cities.
In a disaster of this magnitude, health workers are quickly overwhelmed by the influx of patients, complex injuries and emergency surgeries. Our medical team is here to help ease this burden and to bring much needed medicines and supplies.
Everything is needed: food, water, medicines, people, HOPE.
That’s why we’re here: to give them HOPE.
You can help.
