Episode 27 Summary
In this episode I explore the captivating Alfonsito Cueva Waterfall. On my way back from Vilcabamba, I decided to visit Purunuma and stumbled upon a sign for the waterfall. The adventure began as I took an unknown dirt road in Gonzanama County.
Malacatos, my first stop, is a serene town at 4,000 feet, nestled between lush green mountains and renowned for its mild climate and rich culture. Riding towards Purunuma, the hand-painted sign for "Cascada de Sobrinopamba Alfonsito Cuenca" caught my eye, prompting an impromptu detour.
The ride down the dirt road was exhilarating, full of twists and turns. Upon reaching the waterfall, I met Manuel Basaran, who shared the waterfall's history. Named after the late Alfonsito Cueva, the site is being developed into a small business by the family. For a small fee, visitors can enjoy the waterfall, which the family prepares for guests. You can contact them at +593 (98) 2884329 or 098 2884329 (Locally)
We hiked to the upper waterfall, where a spot called the Lover's Nest offers a private natural wonder. Before leaving, I received directions to Purunuma, but missed the first turn and got lost, which added to the adventure.
Riding Against Chagas: Ecuador's Hidden Battle
This series showcases a motorcycle journey through Ecuador, blending adventure with ecological and cultural exploration. Each episode features a unique route, traversing diverse landscapes like the Andes, Pacific coast, cloud forests and the Southern Loja province. The riders face challenges like mechanical issues and navigation, while also engaging with local communities and critical topics, such as Chagas disease. The series captures the thrill of motorcycle adventuring, the beauty of Ecuador's varied geography, and highlights important health and ecological issues, offering a mix of excitement, natural wonder, and meaningful insights.
About the host
Dr. Mario J. Grijalva is a renowned academic at Ohio University, where he leads the Infectious and Tropical Disease Institute and teaches Microbiology. His primary research focus is on Chagas disease, a significant health issue in the Americas, especially in South and Central America. His work involves studying the pathology of Trypanosoma cruzi infection, understanding Chagas disease's biology and epidemiology, and enhancing blood supply safety in developing countries. Dr. Grijalva also actively engages in educational initiatives, including student-led field studies in Ecuador, and has established significant partnerships and research facilities focusing on tropical diseases, particularly Chagas disease. His contributions to infectious disease research and education have had a global impact. https://www.ohio.edu/medicine/staff/g...
About Chagas
Chagas disease is a neglected tropical disease caused by the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite, affecting about 6 to 7 million people globally. Predominantly seen in Latin America, it poses a risk to an estimated 70 million people. Transmitted mainly by triatomine bugs, it can also spread through contaminated food, mother-to-child, blood transfusions, and organ transplants. Initial symptoms are often mild, but untreated, it can lead to serious heart and digestive problems. As a neglected disease, it receives limited attention for research, treatment, and prevention, impacting mostly poor and rural populations.
https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/chagas/...
https://www.paho.org/en/topics/chagas...
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sh...)
Collaborating institutions.
Ohio University https://www.ohio.edu/medicine/itdi
Pontifical Catholic U. of Ecuador https://cisealpuce.edu.ec/en/
Chagas Coalition https://www.coalicionchagas.org/en/
Attributions for music, pictures, etc.
Music source: Motion Array
Edition: M. Grijalva, Felipe Varela
Graphics: Biorender.com
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