Dispatches

Dispatches

This semi-regular column is designed to be a creative outlet for readers to display the humanistic side of living, working, and caring for others in wild environments. Contributors are encouraged to submit original poetry, short-form essays, poignant photographs with captions, unique artwork and other creative pieces that represent their experiences in wilderness medicine.

Column Editor: Marc Cassone DO, FAWM

Healthcare Challenges in an Austere Conflict Environment

Mark Lopshire, MA, M.Ed, FAWM
February 2, 2026

Regardless of politics, history, religion, or culture, if you and your team decide to practice under austere conditions in the Gaza conflict zone, there are a number of thoughts that one might consider before, during, and after a deployment.

A Desperate Night at Thorang La

Ashmita Pandey, MBBS
August 25, 2025

As a trekking enthusiast, my two friends/colleagues and I embarked on a journey to Thorang La Pass, the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

The Changing Colors of Phoksundo

Shankar Poudel, MS-II
July 17, 2025

A team of three set off on a journey to Phoksundo Lake in Nepal.

Part II of Surviving in the Jungle

Wiley Kemp Livingston Jr., MD
April 7, 2025

[At the end of Part 1 of this series, the intrepid Dr. Livingston was covered in leeches…]

An Infectious Disease Fellow in the Jungles of Brazil Part 1

Wiley Kemp Livingston Jr., MD
March 21, 2025

How I Survived the Jungles of Brazil Part 1

Polar Pathologies and Native Glacier Goggle Designs

Marc Cassone, DO, FAWM, DiMM
March 6, 2025

Not to be outdone by Amundsen and Cook, during a recent trip as expedition physician for glacial researchers in Alaska, I also looked into getting inspiration from traditional local designs.