A chance e-mail landed me a boat builder. I had found a website that offered boat repairs and custom fabrication. Even better, they were located in Lion’s Head, an hour north of me. Mike Jaworski of Advanced Composites indicated that he would be interested in doing this project. The initial quote was for a 5’ x 10’ box, but it soon evolved as we began. At Mike’s persuasion, I splurged to drop the floor into the bed of the vehicle. This was a labour intensive move, as there were many angles and boxes to go around with the side winches and transmission housing. This was probably the smartest change of the entire project, and well worth the added expense. We went from 5’ of head room to almost 6’, which allows me to stand while I’m cooking or having a shower.

With the composite panels in place, and the shelving roughed-in, the rest was up to me. I’m still working on the wiring and plumbing, but I can see a light at the end of the tunnel. The interior consists of a table surrounded by 3 benches, A fridge, stove, shower, sink, toilet, and microwave…everything you need to be comfortable. Under the benches are holding tanks and storage. The table drops and folds out to provide 6’ of sleeping space for two. Power is supplied by solar panels, and 2 Honda generators. I’m still working on a wind generator on the roof to provide 900w of power. I hope to have the vehicle completed by next spring.

I plan to use the vehicle to bring dental care to Northern Native communities that don’t have access. The trailer houses all of the dental equipment including compressors, patient chair, drills, suction, sterilizer, x-ray unit, and necessary supplies. All of the equipment is portable and can be used either in the trailer, or set up in the field. Who knows, maybe I’ll be travelling the world doing dentistry.