A rural doctor embarks on a remarkable journey, traversing miles of unforgiving terrain on a donkey. He braves the elements of cold, rain, wind, and exhaustion, making his way to dozens of families scattered across the highest mountain in the north of Argentina. Dr. Jorge Fusaro has been organizing medical tours three times a year for the past four years across Cerro Chani in Jujuy. This sacred mountain, considered holy by the Indigenous Kolla people, presents extreme temperatures and year-round snowy peaks, and is home to symbolic animals like the puma and condor.

The Rural Doctor's Mission to Remote Communities

Enduring the Harsh Conditions

Dr. Jorge Fusaro's daily routine is filled with challenges as he travels to these remote areas. He endures the extreme cold at nearly 3,600m (11,800 feet) above sea level. The sun blazes down, but he remains committed to his mission. He chops onions and peels potatoes in a kitchen with a thatched roof to help Virginia prepare lunch. This simple act shows his dedication to the community. He asks about her daily chores, animals, husband's health, weather, and medicinal plants. His interactions with the locals give him a deep understanding of their lives and struggles.

He knows that his presence is crucial. As the only doctor many people see, he not only treats residents but also leaves enough medicine for their first-aid kits. He goes beyond medical care by helping them with bureaucratic paperwork, serving as a mail carrier, and organizing training sessions. His efforts have a significant impact on these communities.

The Importance of His Work

Dr. Fusaro's work is not just about treating physical ailments. It's about providing hope and a better life to these communities. "Knowing that our medical work gave these communities a better life fills my heart. If we don’t go, no one will," he says. His concern about government cuts and the potential for future trips to be impossible shows his dedication and the importance of his work.

For some people, his arrival is a moment of great significance. It's the first time they've seen a doctor in a long time. Their surprise at his return shows the impact he has on their lives. Virginia, for example, is very happy when she sees the doctor arrive on his mule. She values the medicines he brings and the support he provides.

Connecting with the Community

Dr. Fusaro believes in sharing and living like the locals. He chops wood and walks for hours to fetch water, experiencing their daily struggles. This helps him understand their efforts and worries, from knee or back pain to the simple joys of life. His approach allows him to think of medical solutions within their possibilities and daily lives.

Virginia and her family understand the importance of his visits. Seeing the rural doctor a few times a year is crucial for them. Their old bodies ache from the hard work with animals, and the doctor's presence provides them with comfort and care.