To The Ends Of The Earth (and back)
January 7, 2011
This past month took us to a place few have heard of, let alone visited. At the very top of the world, on the tiny island of Viagach, is the village of Varnak Russia. (if you look in the dictionary under the words “isolated” or “remote”, chances are you’ll see Varnak!)
Because the straight is not yet frozen, the only way to reach Varnak the majority of the year is by helicopter from Vorkuta (a full two-day journey from Canada). Varnak is as remote a place as you can find – but in that village are dozens of wonderful people who need help.
We brought with us a dentist and basic first aid and medical supplies. Most on the island had never seen a dentist. Those fortunate enough to have had prior dental attention, had received it well over 10 years ago.
Let me tell you – our dentist was busy! He saw and treated almost everyone in the community, working well into the wee hours of the morning.
Varnak is a community that needs our help, and even now, preparations are under way for our Russian team to return.
Because of the state of the village’s only generator, every time the dentist turned on his portable equipment, the village was blacked out. Fortunately (?) most of the patients were beyond fillings and required tooth extractions. 
That night, the entire community came together and we were able to ensure every home had a first aid kit and basic medical and dental supplies. I can’t stress how important this was to the people. Because they don’t have access to medical care or attention, minor injuries often quickly become infected and can easily turn very serious.
So why did we travel all the way to – literally – the ends of the earth?
Parents, let me ask you this: If you heard your kids were trouble and needed your help, would you not do whatever you could to see them out of that trouble? Even if it meant travelling half way around the world?
The people living in Varnak didn’t choose to live there – in fact, many of those living there now were placed there by their government. With no access to industry, income, medical attention (all the things we here in North America take for granted), these people are somebody’s children. They are someone’s family.
How could we not be moved to help?
I ask you the same question. Will you help?
TrueNorthAid continues to go where no others dare – because there we find people in need. The costs are ridiculous and the travel is dangerous and taxing. But we go. Will you help us continue our mission to bring Help and Hope to remote northern communities?
