River Crossings, Rain, & Radio Silence: Notes from the Field in Peru
Day 7: Soaked Packs and a Fading Signal
Raúl’s team crossed the last bend of the Madre de Dios River with low food, waterlogged gear, and a satellite unit running at 13%. We hadn’t heard from them in 48 hours. When his transmission came through, it was short: “We made it. Everyone safe.”
A Simple Delivery with Complicated Edges
This expedition was intended as a follow-up drop of solar lights and field medicine. But the rain season started early, cutting off the route 48 hours into the trip. The team rerouted through an older forestry trail — one not used in at least two years.
“Sometimes progress is just showing up. We didn’t bring anything fancy. But the clinic will have power tonight.”
Raúl’s log
Why We Still Send Teams Here
Trusted local partnership with the clinic
No reliable road access
Nearby communities rely on this hub year-round
What Comes Next
We’ll return in the dry season with a team of volunteers and new filtration kits. This mission held. The next one builds on it.
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