Day3

Wednesday 2nd May

Wow! Today was big and has changed my perspective significantly. Joined Timoteo today to see how he works with the even poorer communities in the mountains. Hitched a ride with one of the trachers of the two schools in La Pera. First time on the back of an open pick-up and very cool feeling riding on a first track dodging potholes and hanging on for dear life!!

Arrived at the school La Pera 2 after a 30 minute hike, past primitive huts made of branches, leaves and bark wood. Some say alcohol is a big problem here and there's some evidence it could be true. No men to be seen because they are all out working on the plantatoins for the big frit comapanies (who pay next to nothing).

The local school seems to be the meeting place for the community and many of the women can be found here. Most are young, attractive, well kept and almost all have small babies.

Timoteo visits them to take details about illnesses - very many diabetics here - as well as family size, living conditions. He then passes the information on to "Limas" or "Junto de Salud" who then send help in the form of food, medication and sometimes doctor visits.

And it didn't take long to realise that I should be doing more than just help Timoteo with his "building project", so I have spoken to the directors of both schools and have promised to return in 2-3 weeks with as many school materials as I can find in San Jose. I have no idea how I will pay for it, but perhaps I can get some financial help from friends....? Not sure how I will transport the stuff as I have been giving 2 very long shopping lists, but I'll find a way somehow....

And that was just the beginnng: now there is Timoteo's/Roberto's project which is already in danger of collapsing becuase of zero management, bad communication and unclear goals. Originally the wish to build a new private house for Timoteo with money donated by Roberto.

Need to help out here too and think I can provide some direction and focus as well as muscle work, but the 1st will be way more difficult than the 2nd.

Looks like my Spanish lessons won't be happening, but perhaps it's better that way: I can spend more time working on the new build and talking with the family. And perhaps even use the money for the school equipment...???

Exhausted already and think the real work will begin tomorrow. Hope I have the energy and endurance......