Injured Australian praises emergency and medical staff

SAMOA – As the Australian public had been told of a young couples harrowing holiday experience in a 60 Minutes report that posed questions about Samoa’s safety as a tourist destination, another female Australian visitor has sung its praises.

Jo Archer from Tasmania, had an accident on her second day in Samoa recently. Her experience about the care she received moved her to post a message on the Talamua Facebook page from her hospital bed in Apia.

“Thank you Samoa – a great place to visit and great medical care,” she wrote on July 6.

“On my second day of a two week holiday, I fell and broke my leg on the steep track of Mt Vaea and I could not have received better emergency and hospital care anywhere in the world.

“A group of warm, caring, and very strong, emergency and fire service volunteers carried me off the mountain and delivered me to Apia Hospital.

“These young men were respectful, reassuring and took such care to make the tricky journey as comfortable as possible. Samoa should be proud of these young men.

“At the Apia hospital I received professional assessment, care, X-rays and treatment all within a few hours – which was much faster than I would have been treated in most Australian hospitals.

“I came to learn about this beautiful country – and to swim, walk, dive and enjoy adventure activities. While there will be no adventure for me as I continue my journey in plaster, I have learnt that this is a beautiful, clean, country with a big heart, welcoming people and excellent facilities.

“We will be back next year to catch up on the activities we have missed and enjoy the climate – and, as importantly, to share the human warmth that Samoa exudes.

“Thanks to everyone who helped me yesterday – I am deeply grateful.

“Now recuperating at beautiful Aga Reef Resort – and being spoiled by Derek and his great team.” - Talamua