SMS Updates From Jerald, Medan - Aceh

These text messages came in from Jerald today.

8 Jan 2005 23:07:53 (GMT +7) We still at medan airport waiting for clearance to fly in.we may go in at 1am.tired.also check if we can get more doctor volunteers.

9 Jan 2005 09:22:31 (GMT +7) We are well-finally i got sleep after 42hours-today have lots of work.

9 Jan 2005 12:35:49 (GMT +7) Bodies everywhere.stench.collosal destruction.absolutely unfathomable.sad many would never know where their loved ones died.many will never know.

9 Jan 2005 15:39:19 (GMT +7) People living in very difficult conditions.now main focus is food n clothes.will update later.cleaning up process is slow.very few shops open. trsnptatn susah to find n petrol also scarce n expensive

It is very grim and sobering indeed. Yet, admist all the depression - life goes on for the living, and there's work that needs to be done.

Our ERM team brings all medical supplies along with them (KL -> Medan -> Aceh) direct to the affected villages and refugees, and provide them with whatever aid we are capable of. Our short-term goal is to build three Posko (aid centres) in Aceh by mid-January, and the long term plan, 16 centres.

At the top of our list is providing medical aid for the affected victims - we need volunteers, mostly medical personnel for our next mission (27 Jan - 7 Feb), as well as funds to purchase medical supplies. We appeal to both individuals and organizations for assistance. Please forward all enquiries to komas_aceh@yahoo.com.