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Why are we perpetually unwell? — A child's question that transforms everything.
👋 Hi there, it's Alex. I'm reaching out from Hambarita, also known as Laindatang, where the hills are coloured red, the soil is parched, and every drop of water feels like a precious gift. I have a question to share- a straightforward one that a child asked me. Yet, it's one I will always remember.
The day a child asked me why he and his family are always sick.
A little over three years ago, in Laindatang, we had just arrived to discuss the villagers' upcoming access to clean water—boreholes, tanks, toilets, and sanitation facilities. As the adults conversed in hushed tones, a boy, around eight years old, approached me. His face was weathered, his feet were bare, and his eyes were serious. He tugged at my sleeve, softly said "hey," and then asked:
"Why am I always unwell? Why is my family always unwell? And the water you bring... is that why?"
I was left speechless. This question impacted me like no other sentence ever has.
It was simple. But disarmingly true.
 In rural Indonesia, children walk with water containers, enduring harsh living conditions due to a lack of access to clean water. In Laindatang, as in many other villages in East Sumba, the water we consume makes us ill, daily and with every glass. It leads to severe diarrhoea, dehydration, chronic intestinal infections, skin diseases, and typhoid fever. Most importantly, it exacerbates malnutrition cases.
It undermines the health of children, mothers, and the elderly, facilitating the transmission of urinary tract infections and, in some cases, even hepatitis A or intestinal parasites that are hard to treat without healthcare access.
This question—"Why are we always sick?"—is prevalent everywhere. It typically goes unasked, except by children.
Since that day, this phrase has remained with me, guiding me like a compass.
It reaffirmed to me the reasons behind our efforts: why we drill, dig, build, test, train, and treat, and why, despite the obstacles, we persist and repeat this process over and over.
We initiated the Water Connections program to transform the water in these villages from a danger into a solution. We drill deep wells, install solar pumps, construct 5,000, 10,000, or 110,000-litre tanks, and repair out-of-order equipment. A single day's worth of water is insufficient; a dependable, sustainable, and easily accessible source is essential.
 In rural Indonesia, children walk long distances carrying water containers, confronting difficult living conditions due to lack of clean water. To address this, we established the Primary Medical Care program alongside Kawan Sehat health workers, ensuring that every village has at least one trained and equipped individual ready to provide assistance. These health workers treat the consequences of contaminated water, educate about hygiene, distribute appropriate treatments, and prevent complications.
Yet, what I truly hold dear in my heart is that moment. That little boy is doing better today. And I am certain that at times, a child can pose the most significant question in the world.
I frequently see that kid; he’s become a real friend, a true buddy.
Today, I believe our efforts in his village mean he no longer needs to ask that question. If he does ask it again, let us be prepared to provide a different response.
"Because we took action. Because we persevered. For you. For your family. To ensure that water remains safe for everyone."
🌻 Thank you for your presence, for engaging with these stories, for supporting us, and for recognising that behind each well, every medicine box, and every child's smile lies a raw reality and a tremendous determination from all of us.
Sending you hugs from wherever I am. See you soon. Alex Wettstein
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