|
Larry introduced our speaker, Gary Alford. Gary, a retired truck driver, is involved with a mission organization called I-TEC. This group has been/ is involved with an indigenous tribe in the Amazon region. This tribe has had only recent encounters with the outside world and Gary described his recent trip to this region and this people. Gary described his adventures spear fishing, hunting for wild boar (with blow guns) and travelling in dugout canoes. Being isolated from developments in the wider world, the community has not had access to developments in dental and vision care. ITEC has developed a number of portable kits to help in these areas. Of specific note, Gary brought along a portable vision kit which allows individuals to have their vision tested and glasses prescribed and distributed immediately. He also brought along a portable dental kit which would allow a trained user to provide dental care (including drilling teeth). The organization provides training for the local population so that they can use these kits themselves to provide care to their own peoples. I, unforturnately, had to leave the meeting a bit early, but I think that Gary took questions after my departure. |
