The draw of surfing in the Mentawais include the warm water, beautiful weather, perfect waves, and pristine nature. This has a flip-side that can present challenges in case of emergency: tropical microbes, relentless sun, powerful ocean forces and a truly remote environment. To mitigate the inevitable risk of surfing in this paradise, Kandui Resort has for years invited a volunteer surf-medic to stay at the resort.

The surf-medic manages common surf- and travel-related issues including reef cuts, lacerations, sprains, sun exposure, dehydration, and tropical infections. Early assessment and treatment help prevent minor problems from becoming serious, allowing guests to recover quickly and often return to the water safely.

In the event of more significant illness or injury, the surf-medic stabilizes their patient and coordinates evacuation, working within the constraints of operating in a remote island chain with limited resources. Beyond guest care, the surf-medic also looks after the health and wellbeing of the crew as living and working on-site in the Mentawais is physically demanding and access to healthcare is limited. Preventive care is also a key part of the role, so maintaining medical supplies, giving medical advice to guests, and teaching staff basic first-aid skills are common tasks sprinkled in-between surf-sessions.

Going forward we are contributing in an effort to improve this volunteer program. Our primary contribution is by providing an educational program for the surf-guides that volunteer at the resort.