Local dentists get their teeth into Amazon mercy mission

The rainforest 
 
For Nadia, a passionate wildlife enthusiast, the trip offered a unique opportunity to see plants and wildlife very different from home.

She said: “We were fortunate that on our trip one of the local volunteers who translated for us was also a wildlife guide.

“Anselmo was a fountain of knowledge about all the flora and fauna of the area. We would get up at dawn and go birdwatching and he’d help me identify the birds we were seeing and hearing.”

Adapting to challenges 
 
The trip wasn’t without its logistical difficulties. Drought conditions in the Peruvian Amazon meant water levels were the lowest in recorded history.

“Climate change is wreaking havoc with the seasons. It should have been the rainy season when we were out there but it hadn’t rained in weeks which impacts the boat’s ability to sail,” explained Nadia.

Ross added: “The organisers were fantastic at adapting to the situation to provide small boats to bring the villagers to us until the water had risen high enough for us to leave.”

Despite the challenges, the team delivered vital care to hundreds of people.

Supporting the Vine Trust 
 
Vine Trust’s mission is to strengthen health systems in isolated communities in Peru and Tanzania. Since 2001, its medical programmes have delivered more than 2.5 million consultations, with teams of volunteers providing vital support on the ground. 
 
Ross and Nadia funded their own trip, with all the donations they collected going directly to the Vine Trust.

“We’re so grateful to everyone who supported the charity,” said Ross.

“Every pound raised helps the Vine Trust continue its invaluable work and we hope to inspire others to get involved as well.”

A journey that will stay with them 
 
Reflecting on their time in the Amazon, Ross said: “It was an incredible experience.

“Seeing how these communities survive day-to-day was eye-opening. The work Vine Trust does is vital and it is a privilege to be part of it.” 
 
Nadia added: “This trip has deepened our appreciation for the beauty of the Amazon and the resilience of its people.

“It’s also made us more determined to do what we can to support the region and raise awareness of its challenges.” 
 

Ross and Nadia are already organising their next trip with the Vine Trust and are sharing their experiences with others to raise awareness and encourage more professionals to volunteer. 
 
For more information about Vine Trust and how to get involved, visit vinetrust.org. Their fundraising page can be found at www.vinetrust.org/u/fae49.