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Jack,
Good comments. SOS is addressing an ACUTE need to TREAT an EPIDEMIC
of DCS. There is no substitute for hyperbaric therapy. To do this requires
chambers. It might appear to be a "band aid" because the other pieces of
the program are not evident. SOS's efforts mesh with others that include
the issues you raise: training and sustainability. SOS is dealing with
treatment, the immediate need. Training deals with the intermediate and
sustainability with the long term.
A former SEAL is operating a training school at Gracia a Dios,
Honduras. He does this *at his own espense* on virtualy zero budget (about
$100.00/mo.). PADI donated spanish language texts for his efforts. They
were very gracoiusly received. Prior to his training, the moskito divers
thought "the sickness" was caused by mermaids casting a spell. As proper
diving technique is implimented, pressure on the fishery may decrease.
There is a group headed by a doctor at Berkeley (I cannot remember
his name at the moment, Bob Izdepski can clarify) studying the
sustainability aspect of the lobster harvest, as well as diversifying the
economic base of the community as a whole (indigineous industries coops, eco
tourism, aqua culture, recreational diving, etc.). That is a vital
component of a comprehensive long range plan to wean the moskito from the
lobster fishery.
Some other the other points:
DAN has donated a Lister diesel engine to drive the compressor for
the Honduras chamber. The chambers are placed at clinics, staffed by
medical doctors, trained in HBO2 therapy by the efforts of Dr. Millington.
The chamber set up at Roatan by Anthony's Key Resort at the
Episcopal Mission Clinic has treated >300 divers since operation in '89.
Only a handful were recreational divers.
In water recompression is being evaluated for feasibility.
The lobster fleet owners now know they have problems (not "issues"
but serious problems) on both counts: sustainability and occupational
safety. They are paying attention now.
The governments of Honduras and Nicuragua know they have problems
(not "issues" but serious problems) on both counts: sustainability and
occupational safety. They do not have the resources or will to act.
Legislation could be passed, but so what? The moskito coast of Nicuragua is
called "La Tierra Sin Ley".
SOS is working within the larger framework. SOS was founded by
divers, so it is addressing the DCS specificly. That's what it does best.
The need to treat is ACUTE. It needs to been done NOW, so these men can
have a future outside the lobster fishery.
Coincidentaly the foundation for a recreational diving industry is
being laid simultaneously. Some of these trained divers will, no doubt,
take on the roles of dive masters and guides as the emphasis shifts from the
lobster. If the worst happens to a diving tourist, well chambers will be in
place and staffed.
Also, while the Lake Pontchatrain Challenge's purpose is to raise
money for another chamber installation, an individual can direct his or her
share to one or more of the other areas if he or she wishes. Feel free to
send email to Bob Izdepski, <subocean@co*.ne*>. He would be glad to
arrange it and answer any specific questions pertaining to this event and
crisis.
I hope this fills in some of the blanks. Your instincts are right
on the mark. Thanks for your concern.
See you there!
Doug Wisner
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