Dr. Jeffrey Lee, a doctor based in Cobargo committed himself to work for his patient despite the destruction of his clinic.
For 30 years, Dr. Lee has been practicing as a GP based in Cobargo.
On New Year’s Eve, Badja Forest Road fire affected the town of Cobargo, causing drastic effects on the homes and business in the town, including Dr. Lee’s surgery clinic. Meanwhile, his home survived the fire.
Days after the fire, Dr. Lee continued serving his patients by taking appointments in his solar-powered motorhome parked in his home.
According to Dr. Lee, taking appointments in his motorhome is more comfortable because of space.
Solar panels attached to the facility provide electricity for basic matters such as hot water and lighting. This serves as an alternative for power source since the town does not have sufficient power supply.
Dr. Lee lost most of his equipment and medical tools from the fire but he is able to treat minor wounds.
However, the doctor faced problems because most of his patients are seeking mental health support.
Due to the drastic effects of the fire on the lives of the people residing in the town, the stress is difficult to handle.
This demand urged the establishment of mental health support services provided by the local government in the town of Cobargo. Still, Dr. Lee remained to his commitment that he will tend his patients the best way he could.
He said that most of his patients are traditional country people who prefer to deal with locals like him.
Dr. Lee remained to such commitment due to the death of Patrick and Robert Salway from Badja Forest Road fire, after defending their home in Wandella, about 10 kilometres away from Cobargo.
The doctor pointed out the resilience of the Cobargites and that as long as they rely on each other, they’ll keep going.
