Orphans of Vietnam

Who I am & What I do

My name is Shane Palmer and I have been traveling to Vietnam , Cambodia & Thailand for the last 12 years together with the South Australian Veterans Touring Group and have worked as their medic. The group visits a number of orphanages which they support by supplying food, educational equipment such as books, laptops and a number of other learning aids. They also have been providing financial support to purchase water filters, help with funds for transportation, supply clothing, provide funds for buildings, etc.

My primary function as a medic is to run clinics where all the adults and children can have health checks and then if needed are referred to hospital for further treatment. Examples are infections, tropical diseases, respiratory problems, dehydration, musculoskeletal disorders, trauma related problems, etc.

In the past couple of years I also started teaching First Aid and Pre-Hospital Emergency Care skills and also supply basic medicines and First Aid equipment.

I work in New Zealand for St Johns in a paid role as an Ambulance Officer and have also been a volunteer for 15 years.

I have received medals, citations and other awards for the work I have accomplished in Vietnam, St John’s and during the Christchurch Earthquakes.

Why do I continue to do this type of work?

Well, I have been told you can’t save the world but I strongly believe that you can make a difference in someone’s life, whether that’s by applying a dressing, giving someone a hug, or just being there when they move on to the next stage of life.

I love people and I love helping them!