Hulhumale, Malé, Maldives
The oftentimes busy, but car-less main drag on the Isle of Dhangethi is just around the corner from Banyan Villa, where we’re staying. The other day, just after a rainfall, Elenka and I went to a shop to buy a postcard. The steps into the store were ceramic. Bare feet and wet ceramic do not work well together. When we left the place I heard a thump. I turned and found Elenka lying on the street, writhing in pain. Six or seven bystanders came to our assistance. We were able to get her up, and I walked her slowly back to our room. Two hours later, the pain, in the lower back had worsened, so we trudged down to the medical clinic, a five minute walk away. And this is where more Maldivian magic happened.
The doctor had already gone home for the day, but he was immediately summoned for the emergency. Meanwhile, Elenka had been bedded down by three caring nurses, who gave me, it’s going to to be OK, smiles throughout. Just 15 minutes later, the shoeless doctor, clad in wet swim gear arrived. He gave Elenka a thorough back and leg examination, then diagnosed the injury as a severe lower back strain. Elenka was then given an injection of Volarten, and told to rest in bed for 48 hours. Additional pain medication was required, but the drug store was closed for the day. No problem! A phone call was made and we were told to walk three doors down the street and wait. Before we completed our less-than-a-minute walk, we were met by a woman with a key in her hand. Without question, she opened the door to the pharmacy and pointed to chairs, where we should sit and wait.
Within five minutes, the pharmacist arrived, and Bob’s your uncle. Elenka is now resting comfortably.
As my Maldivian study continues, I make a point of saying hello as often as I can to those plying the streets of Dhangethi, and not once have I heard an unfavourable response. Even in the dead of night, I’ll intentionally interrupt gabfests with my hellos, same thing, everyone stops, smiles and responds in kind.
The Maldivians are so very different and special, that I think I’d sooner be with them, than the sea creatures of the deep. Dhangethi’s main drag runs from sea shore to sea shore and is about 200 metres in length. The population is around 900. I grew up in a village of about that same size. The folks here do have certain peculiarities though. Could Elenka and I get past the seemingly ever-present Call to Prayer; being fully clothed when going for a swim in the sea; alcohol abstinence; and that touchy-feely-kissy, is forbidden while dining at a restaurant? Hmm!
Moving Backward — We’ve just arrived back at the Maldivian Isle of Hulhumale, where the airport is located, and we’re spending the night at a beachfront hotel. Elenka and I were both worried about her back, but all went well with the two hour boat trip this time around. Even though the seas were churning, we had a better boat and a way better boat captain. Even Elenka smiles now.
There are a pair of short videos attached—I do hope they work.
ToTo
2024-02-18
Hope Elenka gets better soon, Jack you should know better. Great pictures & the video of the manta Ray worked but the other did not. Continue to enjoy but be careful.
Kimberley
2024-02-18
Wow, whale sharks! Thats my dream! Greetings from Holland
Peter
2024-02-18
Awww...best wishes to Elenka, I know how painful that can be. Nice Manta vid.
Michelle
2024-02-18
Elenka, I hope your back heals quickly, glad you were well taken care of. And Jack, manta and whaleshark, amazing!!!!
Lina
2024-02-18
Our health care should be that good. Take care of Elenka.
Renate
2024-02-18
I wish you my best, dear Elenka. Be careful, Jack too. Great pictures.
Renate
2024-02-18
Unbelievable the both videos. It’s great, to have such a experience.
Irene black
2024-02-18
Amazing photography yet again can clearly see why you both look so happy. Elena take care of you and be well
Rodger
2024-02-19
Hoping your injury heals quickly Elenka!
Maja
2024-02-19
Wow, whale sharks. Amazing.
Vickie
2024-02-25
Amazing videos... Poor Elenka. Hope she heals quickly with the native potions (and the shot of Western medicine)