A Life-Threatening Emergency in the Mountains of Matagalpa
In the remote mountains of Matagalpa, emergencies can quickly turn into tragedies. With limited access to health care and no nearby hospitals, every second counts.
But thanks to the strength, resilience, and teamwork of a dedicated community, one young man’s story became a story of hope.
A Tragic Accident in the Fields
One ordinary day, Rolando* was working in the fields when disaster struck. He lost his footing, and his machete pierced his abdomen. Bleeding and in pain, he lay on the ground, unable to move.
His accident happened in one of the most remote sectors of Sabalete, called Sacred Heart of Jesus—more than four hours away from the nearest health clinic.
With no time to waste, his peers ran to find Zoraida*, the vice-coordinator of the local Health Committee. But in a rural community where cell service is unreliable, reaching professional medical help was almost impossible.
Strength in Unity: The Power of a Community in Crisis
With the clock ticking, Zoraida took action. She contacted the director of the nearest health center to arrange an ambulance, but there was one major challenge—the ambulance couldn’t reach their isolated village.
Determined to save Rolando’s life, she rallied the community. Together, they crafted a stretcher from wooden poles and a hammock, lifting the injured young man onto their shoulders. Step by step, they carried him for miles over rough, muddy, and slippery terrain until they finally reached the ambulance.
A Story of Survival and Hope
After eight days in the hospital, Rolando survived. He returned home, where José Alberto, one of the AMOS-trained Health Promoters, continued his care, removing his stitches and ensuring his recovery.
Pedro Pablo Guillén, another Health Promoter in Sabalete, reflects on this moment:
“Our community is vast, and households are spread out, so we have Health Committee members in every sector. Emergencies like this prove how important that is. We, as Health Promoters, know that the committee members are prepared to respond to emergencies, too. They are a great support—we are an organized team, working for the same purpose.”
Your Support Makes This Possible
This is the heart of AMOS’ mission: empowering communities with the knowledge and tools they need to save lives. Because of your generosity, these networks of care exist in places where health care would otherwise be out of reach.
Thank you for believing in health for all. Together, let’s keep writing new chapters of hope!
[*Names have been changed for privacy.]