The longest journey.

Health Centre

(Pusat Kesihatan Fasa 1 Nanga Bangkit, Song)

Health centre building - left.

Lower right - Bangkit River

river and longboat is the only mode of transportation in this area.

It was around quater past two in the afternoon. As it was Sunday, I was about to take a nap. But deep in my mind, I have an instinct that something unforseen might happen.

The sound of the outboard engine come closer and closer. Soon it stop right at the small jetty infront of the clinic. I am expecting some serious case. It is uncommom for patient to seek treatment on Sunday unless it's serious. My guess was right. Someone knocked my door. "Jampat dik nurun, Cikgu ari Ng Chemanong raya amai sakit".

At the clinic , I did the routine for every patient. Starting from registration then history taking, physical examination until finally come to diagnosis. It sound simple but infact this is the most crucial part of my job. To make an accurate final diagnosis is very important as it will help in giving appropriate treatment and management of patient. In this case the diagnosis is acute appendicitis and required urgent operation - appendectomy.

After all the preparation, it was about 5 pm. I know the the longboat trip to nearest hospital(Kapit Hospital) will take 6 hours meaning that we will reach around midnight. This poor patient has to suffer in pain for another 6 hours. The night trip won't be easy. There are so many risk along the way. Cruising the Katibas river then the Batang Rajang. But we have no choice. We have to confront all that and even risk ourself for the safety of the patient.

Another task is to prepare for transportation. Longboat, outboard engine, gallon of petrol, battery and spot light and etcc.. Not to forget the canvas in case it rain.

to be continue.....

p/s. As long as we haven't reach the hospital my mind is not at peace. Every minute count... that why it's the long journey for me.