We're Moving

Hi everyone,

Thank you for staying up-to-date with Hope for Haiti Foundation and for your continued support!  Moving forward, we will be moving this blog over to our new website (if you haven't checked it out yet, you should! www.hopeforhaitifoundation.com). You can now check out all of our organization's stories and updates over at our news section - http://www.hopeforhaitifoundation.com/news/.  Be sure to bookmark our page for all the latest news and to catch up on what's been happening the past 6 months. We're so thankful for your partnership in helping spread hope for Haiti.

Thank you!
The HFHF team

“Four or Five” Update from LJ

Our team of 10 arrived safely in Zorangé, Haiti yesterday. We survived the 6 hour drive on some of the craziest roads you’ll see. Two fun quotes from the experience were… “Most car tires spit out pebbles on bumpy roads, we’re spitting out boulders.” Or this quote from our fearless leader/driver, Jean Eloi, as his 9 passengers were flying out of their seats, “Sorry, there were no good options.”

The travel was completely worth it because of what I experienced today.  Before the trip, Jean told me four or five people would be interested in learning more about children’s ministry as it is not a common idea here in Haiti. God has given me a big passion for empowering people to teach kids about Jesus, so this opportunity excited me even if it was only for a few.

At 2pm it was time for the meeting so I went to the classroom, and there were 40 people waiting. Yea… that is a couple more than “four or five.”

The 40 people there represented almost 30 local churches. Two people traveled from as far away as 11 miles (which doesn’t sound like a lot to us Americans but here it is a process that takes multiple hours).

The meeting went really well. I shared a little about me, they shared a little about them and then we talked about what they’re currently doing with their kids. Stories ranged from nothing to teaching for 1-2 hours once a week with kids ages 3-14.

I shared things I’ve learned over my years of working in children’s ministry. Things like making your teaching engaging, intentionally scheduling your time with the kids, following up Bible lessons with life application, fun ways to encourage Bible verse memorization, partnering with parents to make more of an impact, etc. Everyone seemed to be very engaged, not caring at all that the talk lasted 3 hours while they sat on hard benches in the heat. They genuinely desired the knowledge to make their programs the best they can be.

When it came to question time, they came fast and were all over the board. From “do you think parents spanking their kids if they don’t want to come to church is a good idea?” to “what age is ok to baptize someone?” I loved this time though because they had humble hearts that wanted to learn. A perfect audience.

I left them with the challenge to create goals they’d like to meet in a month, 2 months, 6 months, etc. I encouraged them not to feel overwhelmed, but to take it a step at a time. I also encouraged them to use one another as resources. There’s no benefit to coming up with good ideas/lessons/etc and not sharing them. We are all the body of Christ and the ability to meet with one another will make their kingdom impact great.

I left the meeting agreeing with what one man shared after the talk…. “I believe God is going to bless this time we shared.” Can’t wait to see in what ways!

- Laura Johnson

Breaking the "cycle" of poverty - one mile at a time.

In just a week and a half, Craig Blasingame and Sue Steven will go for a little spin – literally. On March 9, the pair will embark on the adventure of a lifetime, cycling across America – from coast to coast – all to support Haiti. Not only is their tour de 'Merica an incredible way to see the country, but they're using the ride as a platform to raise funds for Hope for Haiti Foundation. We caught up with them before they channel their inner Lance to learn more about their trip, their connection with HFHF and how they hope to use the bike ride to make a difference in the lives of hundreds of Haitians.

How did you find out about Hope for Haiti Foundation and what has your involvement been with the organization?

Sue worked at the same company as Jean Elade Eloi (HFHF founder), and they became friends. Jean invited Sue to join him on a medical mission, and Sue’s husband Craig didn’t want to miss the opportunity, so he joined as well. We went on the trip in January 2007, and Craig made the first GPS survey of water sources near Zorange. After spending time in Haiti and seeing how little people had to eat, upon our return we were inspired to join Weight Watchers and be less gluttonous ourselves. We each lost 40 pounds and have kept it off.

So you decided you wanted to get more involved with HFHF. What gave you the idea to bike across America as a way to give back?

The goal to ride across America on our bikes was Sue’s dream. She had bicycled to work for 30 years and always wanted to do a longer trip. Our friends asked us if we were riding for a charity, and the idea to use it as a way to raise funds for Hope for Haiti Foundation came out of that. We selected HFHF because it is a charity whose mission is aligned with our own values: Christian-based, education-centered, self-supporting infrastructure and most importantly, efficient use of donated resources.

Tell us a little bit about your trip. What route are you going to take and how many days do you plan to be riding? What kind of support system do you have?

Our trip is approximately 3100 miles long from San Diego, California to San Augustine Florida. It will take 9 weeks, 44 days of riding, averaging 63 miles a day. We are in a group of 27 riders and 12 support staff. The staff set up our tents each night and cook for us, so we only have to concentrate on the ride. Given that the average age of the rider is 62 years old, that is enough!

What kind of preparation and training goes into a trip like this?

The main preparation for our trip is training to ride about six to eight hours a day. For us, we ride at least one hour a day on our bicycles to make it routine, take spin classes three days a week for our aerobic and muscle strengthening, and then take at least one or two long rides a week for developing stamina. We have been testing new equipment, gear, and clothing for a variety of weather too.

What are you most nervous about and what are you most excited about?

We are excited about being close to nature and seeing the sights of the southern U.S. along the way. We are most nervous about any injuries that might interfere with our ability to finish the mileage each day… and also lightning in the middle of Texas!

How much do you hope to raise for HFHF?

We have not set specific goals since we don’t want to limit our thinking. However we are excited about getting the message out to our own network and the people we meet along the way. Wouldn’t it be nice if people would give at least a penny a mile?

How can people support your trip and HFHF?

They can support the trip by following us on our website adventure and post encouraging comments. Our website already has some of our training rides and photos posted and will be updated weekly once the trip starts on March 9^th.

What would you say to someone who wants to help HFHF (or any other cause for that matter) but isn't sure what to do?

Don’t let your worries of not achieving your goal (like finishing the ride!) stand in the way of helping others. The need in Haiti is so great that whatever way you can help will be needed and appreciated.

3100 miles? Ain't no thing! Be sure to keep up with Craig and Sue's ride by checking in on their website here: http://www.spotadventures.com/trip/view/?trip_id=291320! You can also support their ride and HFHF by donating online and mentioning the C2C bike trip in the comment section, or if you get inspired, plan an adventure of your own! Our biggest thanks to Craig and Sue for partnering with HFHF and we wish them the best.

Last Day - January Medical Trip

Today was our last day of clinic. We have seen many people we can help and a few that we cannot. We all find that incredible difficult to deal with, and we have to remember where we are and what can and cannot be done. Elade always says that "healthcare" and "Haiti" don't belong in the same sentence. The limited options available cannot be called healthcare. Yesterday, it was a young man that was incredibly ill and we were not sure what was wrong or which course to take. Today, it was an elderly gentleman who had a stroke and had been carried 2 1/2 hours by his family to the clinic. That is Haiti.

Nights have been interesting as we have been serenaded by a choir of barking dogs, braying donkeys and crowing roosters. As a result, I learned to say "shut up" in creole, but I forgot how by the time the choir started again. The snoring could not hold a candle to it.

Tomorrow we leave here to travel the bumpy ride to Gandou. Somehow I think bumpy is an understatement. We will see the beginnings of the new clinic there before traveling on to Bainet where we will spend the night. Saturday will be an incredibly long day as we travel from Bainet to Port au Prince before boarding the flights home.

We all look forward to seeing our families again and bid a fond farewell to Haiti.

- Susan

Zorange's First Endoscopy

Hi all HFHF friends,

Today started much the same, though we were all noticing it was already Wednesday. Time does fly by when you are involved and enjoying working with these wonderful people.

Duane's first patient of the day was a perfect endoscopy candidate, having difficulty swallowing with food sticking on the way down as well as upper abdominal pain. The patient agreed without any hesitation. His daughter was brought in and she also agreed. She looked about 8 months pregnant but very healthy and beautiful. Our patient had not eaten or drank before coming to the clinic this morning, so we immediately started getting ready. Karina and Shirley were called in to start getting the patient prepped. Karina started the IV and got the patient positioned on the table with Nasson explaining everything to him in a calm and professional manner. I got the equipment and scope ready and working. Gerry and John were excited for us as they had been asking all their patients "the questions" for GI symptoms, in fact they have one for us tomorrow. Duane and I were ready to go so Shirley started the propofol and down went the scope. The patient had an ulcer and a stricture which was balloon dilated.

Yea! Zoranges first endoscopy procedure performed successfully and safely by Duane with Shirley doing a great job of sedation with Karina's assist and with me assisting Duane. It was great team work! We hope to do many more. Starting a little primitive but will improve as time goes by.

Rita and young Sherly are assisting Deborah nonstop with ultrasounds on every pregnant mom, and Susan checks out every child that comes through.

Elade is everywhere and is always encouraging and positive. He translates, confirms, plays soccer, smiles, cares, and tells us to EAT!

After clinic young Sherly and Deborah did some more teaching, then 5 of the team headed for the river. They had a little excitement when they had some company, one who carried a rather large machete. But all was well and no harm done.

With only one more day of clinic we are all feeling our time here growing short. We are growing together in camaraderie and friendship.

Tonight watching the stars and moon in the beautiful sky thinking of family left at home but so grateful to be part of something that is changing such a tiny part of the world in such a momentous way. I'm thankful that we can pool our resources and talents, no matter how small we think they are, and pass on our blessings to the people of Haiti.

- Suzy

Reflections from Day 3 - Jan. Medical Trip

We are on day three of our trip.

It has been a time to make new friends and to reacquaint with old ones. It has been wonderful to renew my relationship with Myrlande and Lusca, two of the Haitian nurses. I am always humbled by their competence and dedication in their care for patients here. It is truly my honor to be able to help them in their mission to improve the health of their community.

Lusca, Magaly, and Pierrelyse - part of our Haitian medical team

We have seen so many pregnant women these past two days as word has spread that we have an ultrasound machine.....that works. Everyone has been so happy to see their baby swimming around, sometimes giving a little wave on the screen. Of course they all want to know the sex of the baby too, so we try for that as well. It has been a relief that only 2 of the pregnant women we have seen were unwell, yet discouraging in our limited ability to help them. It is, in a sense, the microcosm of what has been accomplished here and what still needs to be done.

Each afternoon we have had the opportunity to do some teaching with the Haitian nurses once the clinic work is done. Thus far, Duane, Suzy, and Karina spoke about GI issues, I spoke about abnormal cycling in women, and Susan spoke about breast feeding and childhood malnutrition. The conversation is always lively and the interchange is educational for all of us.

Most of us have finished every day with a walk down to the river for a bath. We are always accompanied by children who join the procession along the way. By the time we get to our bathing spot we have quite an audience for the spectacle of the "Blancs" soaping up. On our way up we all get tapped to carry the children's water canisters up the hill and spend a lovely walk laughing and joking with them along the way.

Z'orange is, as ever, a place of contemplation and reflection. My time here always helps me to regain perspective on my crazy life in New York. I always feel a renewed sense of purpose as I help, in my own small way, to make the lives of women here just a little bit better; I look forward to continuing in my participation in this wonderful project in the years to come.

All the best from Haiti.

-Deborah

Medical Trip - Day 2 "What Am I Doing Here?"

Hi from Zorange! I'm embarrassed to follow Karina. She is a great writer! Today is the second day of my second trip to Haiti. Things have changed from a year ago. Somewhere in Haiti is a mountain of water bottles that used to fill the ditches of Port-au-Prince (PAP). The streets in PAP are much cleaner than before. The trip to Zorange was just as challenging as a year ago. At least this time the flat tire was on the truck (carrying the luggage) and not the Land Cruiser (carrying the people). We arrived "home" bruised, tired and dirty.

Sunday was restful. A time to unpack, settle in and plan the week. We attended a church service at the school. It was lovely and our Dr. G is now an official Godfather to a precious baby named Jenny.

Today was our first clinic day. Once again, it started with that feeling of "what am I doing here? How can I really help?" As we start seeing patients, I start to relax and realize once again God placed us all here for a reason. We all have different strengths and talents and a responsibility to share them with our neighbors. It is a privilege to be part of this team. Three patients traveled from PAP to see our cardiologist Dr. G. He was able to see diagnose a postpartum cardiomyopathy with the help of John a great sonographer. He was able to start her on medication. Amazing!! Dr. Webb and Suzy treated GI patients. Dr. Deborah was able to see many women in the women's clinic with the help of Rita and Sherly. Susan was our resident pediatrician. Karina and I put our two brains together and worked as internists. Hard to believe a CRNA and RN could diagnose a case of typhoid with the help of the lab. So glad I had the typhoid vaccine. Of course we can't forget our cheerleader Elade translating everything. This afternoon was spent in a training session for our great Haitian clinicians. Thanks to Dr. Webb, Suzy, Karina and Dr. Deborah for doing such a great job training on GI and women's health.

It is really hard to describe the feeling I have sitting on the porch of the dormitory in the cool breeze having little Nancy braid my hair. I love Zorange and God willing I will be back again wondering once again "what do I have to offer?"

Nancy & Chanika playing with the team on the dorm porch.

- Shirley

Back in Zorange - January Medical Team

I've come with a team of all veterans but one. Can we even call the newbie a rookie? She was born in Haiti. Still, she utters something about questioning the sanity of the return visitors as Elade traverses the bumpy, bumpy mountains. The trip that challenges our backs, our eyes, our constitutions, our hearts, and yes, even our sanity.

At long last, Elade says "we're home". And we are. And we exhale. The new dorm is huge...a palace with two toilets! The history of Haiti toileting has been abysmal. Until you've tried to go with cockroaches and tarantulas, you really can't understand or appreciate the magnitude of a toilet. The dorm also has plenty of room for all of us, and a dry place to sleep. We arrive happily exhausted, and I proceed to sleep twelve hours.

Our team, like all teams, come from different walks of life. I feel like everyone on my team was placed at this place and time by God, and I can't wait to find out why. All of us have college degrees any American would be proud of, but the only thing we all seem to boast about is the number of times we've all made the trip. We have three doctors, a CRNA, a mental health worker, a sonographer, and four nurses. Ten people with big dreams. To put it mildly, we're awesome.

My first trek to Haiti was in 2007. I came from a place of nurturing. Haiti, I decided, was my baby. I wanted to cradle each Haitian in my arms, shush her and tell her everything was going to be ok and that I'll love her forever. It's 2012. By my perspective from when I found her, Haiti has reached its toddler years. She is walking, forward even. She is struggling to find a new identity not as victim, but survivor. She is growing every day, but still needs guidance. Most changes can be measured in drops, not waterfalls. But enough drops will change the flow of a river. This is proven in Zorange. And alas, Haiti is not a baby or a toddler. It is a country of individual humans. A husband sneaking a kiss from his bride. A baby sister pulling her older sister's hair and waiting excitedly for a reaction. It is sweat wiped off a brow after a hard day's work. A baby fighting to fall asleep in her mother's arms.

I am so very proud to be a part of watching these brothers and sisters and mothers receive a higher quality of life through medicine, education, and finding a walk with God. If my team and I can help one person in one way this week, the psychotic trek here will be all worth it, and we know we will have put in ten more drops.

-Karina

Six Teachers Heading to Zorange for the First Time

Six teachers heading to Zorange for the first time. For three of them, this would be their first trip ever to Haiti. Although there was a good plan in place, I had a major concern: I was not going to be there with them at the airport. This team of teachers would arrive in Haiti four hours before I do. It would be unfair to have them wait. They would have to be picked up by Wilner and Aurele. The good news came on Saturday morning around noon when I received a text from my brother saying that the “pick-up” was done smoothly. This meant that the two groups of people (who had never met before) correctly identified each other at the chaotic Toussaint Louverture airport in Port au Prince. We overcame the first major hurdle.

I arrived on Saturday evening. Sunday morning, we loaded up, prayed and headed for the mountains. There was a very calm and peaceful spirit along the way.THE TEAM

1. Rae Greer
   Married, 3^rd year Teacher, Social Studies- Cedar Hill Collegiate High School.
   Primary assignment: Explore for future involvement.
   Secondary assignment/presentations: Bloom’s Taxonomy, Collaborative Learning through Literacy groups.
2. Lauren Hurd
   First year Teacher, Biology, Desoto Independent School District
   Primary assignment: Explore for future involvement
   Secondary assignment/presentation: Chunk and Chew / Productive/Effective homework
3. Merilee
   Married, 10+ years, 3^rd grade Teacher. Duncanville Indepedendent School District.
   Primary assignment: Explore for future involvement
   Secondary assignment/presentation: 5E lesson plans
4. Mike Taylor
   Married, Counselor, Teacher- Waxahachie Independent School District
   Primary assignment: Explore for future involvement.
   Secondary assignment/ presentation: Making Science Projects Simple
5. Coach Joe
   Married, Math Teacher- Desoto Independent School District
   Primary assignment: Explore for future involvement
   Secondary assignments: set up intercom system, coordinator, floater, group leader

As soon as we left the good paved road of the Jacmel mountains to the dirt road leading to Trouin, the ladies asked for a pit stop. I pulled over. Fifteen minutes later, as the three of us men stared at the majestic mountains, the ladies returned giggling like school girls. “Ladies, I love you all more now than I did an hour ago,” I said to them. I knew then that was a special bunch. But there was one oddity: Lauren is wearing boots, cowboys boots to Zorange. It was fitting, daring, and comical. Cowboys boots and nature, perfect match; “wear something comfortable”, did she not get the memo?

Several meetings prior to the trip, I believe, really prepared them for what was coming and they were full of excitement. Along the way, the laughter and fellowship never stopped. At times, I felt sorry for hitting some bumps but it’s not like they were not warned. The mountains, their excitement, and the love in their hearts were just the right cushion for the bumpy road. So we continued. Bumps, rocks, bumps, rocks, rivers. So they hang for dear life and laughed all the way to Zorange. I did wonder if their energy would last but they were still smiling when they entered Zorange. From Bainet to Zorange, I am thinking, “If anything, these guys would agree that we are genuine in our effort,”. All the way to Zorange, I was able to show them where I picked Elenie; where she met her friend; where she crossed the river; where they put on their shoes and went up the mountains… just like they saw on the documentary.

We arrived in Zorange at our expected time. After settling down, I took the team to the school and the preparation began. The team took 12 suitcases of school supplies to Zorange. One particular box was of interest to me. Lauren is still in boots. A few loose ends were tied up; teacher bags made, final plans discussed and aligned. Still no signs of retreat from this group. Everybody had their game-face on. I can’t quite feel Rae. I think she’s concerned about presenting tomorrow. It may be a combination of excitement and an unknown audience. Rae makes me feel at ease although I fell short on some of my assignments (copies, translating etc…). She reassured me that we could pull it off. Mike finds a new home. Being raised in the country, he appreciates space, country manners. Zorange is his kind of Haiti. During this preparation period, Mike makes a suggestion that will change the way we do things in Zorange for a long time. Merilee is also full of excitement. I think she’s anxious to see the children. Still in her boots, Lauren is enjoying the moment. She has always wanted to visit Haiti. But she looks tired. Coach Joe suggests we take a break for diner. Coach Joe does not have a presentation. He is the overall leader. He would moderate the workshop, designate the breaks, fill-in, keep us on schedule, keep us charged up etc… I’d simply make sure he has as much info as possible.

Sunday night: The preparations continued until the sky was filled with plenty of bright stars. Lauren was selected to accompany me to the radio station. She and I greeted the listening audience and launched a final invitation to all principals in the region.

The sleeping arrangements were not the Hilton but this team was prepared. I promised them good, clean water and flushable toilets. Nasson and Wilner had taken care of both of these things for me.

We were ready. In the morning, Mike and Lauren were to stay at our school for classroom observation as the rest of the team visits the neighboring schools. I would accompany the second team.

Monday morning, we started with our farthest school (College Etzer Villaire de Tony). The team enjoyed visiting Etzer Villaire school. Each classroom they visit received a bag of supply from them. At the end of each visits the team layed hands and prayed with the Principal.

Monday morning (around 11:30), ‘more people are calling, wanting to attend the workshop, what do we do?” These were the questions I was having to answer. On one hand, I wanted to stick to the protocol, but on the other hand, we were there for them. “let them come, I’ll just have to take my spanking from Vierge later because we prepared food for the 90 who signed up.” I answered.

Monday afternoon, about 115 teachers and 14 principals were seated in our small cafeteria. Rae was at bat and she delivered on Bloom’s taxonomy. We didn’t have enough supplies for the craft section but it worked out okay. Teachers were engaged and excited. The presenters interjected at will, supporting, backing up the concepts being shared.

Lunch. Vierge is right on time. Having the food ready on time was a high priority task and she delivered. Normally everybody would get a plate of food, find a comfortable spot and eat. Not today. Mike had asked if it was okay to serve the teachers. “I’ll make it happen for you, Mike.” I answered. So the room was quickly turned into a cafeteria. Everyone seated while the visiting team served the local teachers. What a sight! What an idea! This is how we will serve food during these workshops from now on.

It was professional, smooth, right, enjoyable, rewarding, unfathomable from the local teachers view.

After lunch, Merilee presented on 5E lesson plans. Like Rae, she also hit it out of the park. Throughout the workshop, we maintained their interests with our consistent raffle drawings, giving them chances to win items. The team made two special bags for two principals who need some immediate help (Seth Etienne, Gusto Brugnol). They were pleased to receive them. We finished the afternoon exhausted but on a high note.

After day one, we critiqued the work and made some changes for tomorrow. There were several reasons why Day 2 would be special. First, it will highlight / acknowledge / validate the hard work of one our local teachers. Our long term goal has always been to produce solid leaders from the region. Language Arts teacher, Ferne Pierre would be is our first step. Secondly, basic, hands-on science concepts will be presented to our teachers.

Unlike day 1, day 2 would a full day. It would begin at 8 am. But it will not be sufficient unless we modify our approach. “There’s wisdom in the counsel of many” (somewhere in proverbs). So the idea came that we should spilt the group. We would have simultaneous workshops running. Teachers would be divided into 3 small groups. What another great idea! Let it be so. Literacy groups in room 2, science projects in cafeteria, Language arts strategies in computer lab.

Tuesday morning, Coach Joe and Merilee handled the logistics and the day began. “Wow, this is actually working great,’ I thought to myself. The small groups made possible that one-on-one approach. We made sure everyone’s suggestions or input was acknowledged. We modified the pace as needed. From here forward, courses will be offered in a menu style approach. Participants will choose which classes they want to take. This will be the new way of doing workshops in Zorange.

Once we got over the initial hurdles in the morning, things moved very smoothly and Coach Joe and Merilee kept us on track and moving.

Lunch was ready promptly at noon. Once again, the team went to work. The teachers sat and the team humbly served them.

Day 2 ended with a Q&A session and the passing out of certificates. The comments from the participants came like a flood, expressing their gratitude toward the effort. They could not understand why we showed so much care and love for them. Our own principal, Tony Semerzier, reached in his social studies repertoire and pulled out examples of the vast separations between blacks and whites. He could not understand why he was being served. Another stood up and stated that it is like we were paying them to teach them. Hearing these comments, I began thinking about what someone once shared with me. I do not recall if it is was my brother or a young Baptist missionary from North Carolina named Scott Bass in 2004. It is a quote from St Francis of Azizi that reads : “Love them until they ask why”.

So ends the workshop. How much of the info did the teachers really retain? How much will this workshop impact their teaching? Was it really worth it? Only time will tell. Alfred Noncent, a school principal from Doko who attended the workshop, decided to have a 3^rd day of workshop on his campus where they sat and considered how they would incorporate the knowledge they gained from the workshop. This is all that we could ever ask for.

As predicted, this was one of the best workshop ever held in Zorange.

FYI- our school now has an intercom system that reduces loss of instruction time in the morning. Students now enter class immediately in the morning and announcements are to be made using the intercom which has a speaker in each classroom Everything is set, we’re waiting on a component. Please help me express my gratitude to Coach Joe, Lauren Hurd, Kenny Lowman and Midlothian First Baptist Church family.

What’s next? I will send a plan by Christmas detailing the plan for Spring Break and Summer. Meanwhile, please share your thoughts and comments to this wonderful group of people from Texas.

P.S. to my defense of any incoherent thought or typos, I am still under a lot of medications.

By the way, Lauren left Zorange with her boots on. And a new nickname. She’s baptized ‘Toujou Grangou” meaning ‘always hungry’.

- Louis

Another Julie, Ashley, and Marjorie Update

We are all glad to report that we have observed, and hopefully retained, a cooking lesson from Vierge. We now know how to season and deep fry fish, how to make sos pwa, and deliciously sticky and buttery rice. We have yet to see how our individual attempts will turn out.

We spent Sunday in Bainet, visiting the site of the future teaching hospital. The land looks great and there is a beautiful view of the ocean! We also visited the hospital in Bainet which will be renovated and run by a collaboration of organizations. We tried to visit the makeshift cholera hospital, but the staff had run out to pick up a patient. The good news is, they have no other patients, so there is definite progress! Before dinner we took a stroll out to visit Tata, who took us on a nice walk around the town. Little did we know we'd end up in jail! Don't worry, we were there only as visitors; we ran into a nice policeman who offered to take us on a tour of the police station.

Early Monday morning we packed up and headed back to Zorange to finish up our surveys. We had a decent turnout at Bel Hotesse, but the road getting there was very tedious and it took us an HOUR and a half. Today, we finished completely! The turnout at Daniel was wonderful, we even had to turn people away because we ran out of survey forms. Now that we're done collecting surveys, we'll continue to go over the data so far and start getting a picture of the health situation in the area. Otherwise, Ashley and I are hoping to get ourselves some sweet braided hairstyles. Marjorie is of course, as always, already looking good.

We'll try and write before we leave for the States, but if not, we'll post pictures of our adventures when we get home!

Bonne nuit,

Julie, Ashley, and Marjorie

End Of The Week Update

Sak passe?!

Well, we've made it to the end of our first week. Looking back, it has gone by faster than anticipated. But, time flies when you're having fun :)
In addition to the surveys we completed at the beginning of the week we were able to have an informational session with the nurses, a Q&A type of session. Julie does research on Alzheimer's and Parkinson's so those were two of the topics covered. We reviewed the surveys yesterday and have about 200 surveys completed. By next week I am sure we will make our goal of 400. I am excited to get back to the states and continue to work with Marjorie and Julie to assess our information in greater depth.

Although we've been working, we've definitely found time to spend some time to soak up the full experience of Haiti. Yesterday, we took our clothes to the river and washed them...I'm not that great at it but it made for a good laugh :) We also took a trip to the market where Julie and I bought some awesome hats. They're like your own personal umbrella, which is nice for this beautiful, sunny, HOT, weather. This weekend Vierge is teaching us how to cook...that will make for a blog in itself! We'll let you know how that goes...

-Ashley

Some down time...

Bonjour!
We finally were able to get the internet up and running. We got to Zorange Sunday afternoon and after settling in had our first meeting with Myrlande, Wilner and Nasson. Over the course of our two weeks we are hoping to interview about 400 people for our health assessment for the upcoming clinic in Gandou. So far, we have had a great turnout. Monday we went to the market in Belamy where the people were very willing to give us their time in answering our questions, and we got the same reaction in Gorie. It was very exciting to see their enthusiasm for the new clinic and all that they are willing to do to make it happen.

Today and tomorrow we are able to relax! So far, we've eaten a great breakfast, had the best (and strongest) coffee you could ever imagine, and were given a tour of the school and clinic. It looks amazing! The school colors are so vibrant and lively and as I sit here in the computer lab I'm serenaded by the kids singing their school anthem :) The clinic staff are so proud of all that they have accomplished and gave us a full tour of all their hard work.

Tomorrow, Nasson is taking us to the market! I know this will be an awesome experience and Julie and I are hoping to buy some cool stuff. So, while we are working hard, we are finding some time to soak up the beauty of Zorange. We wish you all could be here with us!!

Au revoir,
Ashley, Julie, and Marjorie :)

Finally in Zorange!

Hello all you blog followers. Marjorie, Julie and myself made it to Zorange Saturday afternoon and we were able to relax a bit after the long, bumpy, drive in. We started our work week today in Belamy where we conducted surveys with the people in that community to gain a better understanding of the health needs in that area. The people gathered in the market place and stood in line. We had a great turn out and obtained a lot of useful information. The people were very cooperative and grateful that we had come to them to hear their voice and we were welcomed with open arms.While we have been working hard there has been plenty of time to lounge around, learn Kreyol, and of course, eat Vierge's amazing food!We hope to update again soon and that you could see beautiful Zorange with us! :)

Bon nwit!Ashley, Julie, and Marjorie

Reflections from Gandou

The trip was intense. Intensely joyful, intensely hard, intensely challenging, intensely rewarding.

We went to the same village that I went to last year but the people who live there have done so much work that I hardly recognized it. It was a joy to say I didn’t know my way around this tiny village that I love. The school that was half built before the earthquake was now rebuilt and functioning and they have power. Last year every time I wanted to do a EKG in the clinic, all construction had to stop because we only had 1 generator. Now they have solar power that runs the clinic and school. They even have intermittent internet access. The day I received a email from Zorange I sat at my desk and cried. It is difficult to describe how remote this village is.

This year we brought a mobile clinic to Gandou. This village is cut off in the rainy season when the river is too treacherous to cross. The ride in is an hour from Zorange up steep mountain trails. Some of the hardest 4 wheeling I have ever seen and you know how I like to ride my ATV! We saw many people with incredibly high blood pressure. (its hereditary there, not due to lifestyle obesity and smoking is almost non existent in Haiti) One lady we saw was 50 yrs old and had already had a stroke at home, no medical care, and was having mini strokes currently. How her husband will continue to care for her is a mystery and miracle.

We have a midwife Kim traveling with us. She saw many pregnant women who have not received prenatal care. 3 of them were in a critical condition, preeclampsia. Kim was able to treat them there and likely saved the lives of the moms and babies. Thank goodness that we will have a clinic there in the near future. We saw many, many people that day. We were not able to see all of them.

Back at the clinic in Zorange I saw a woman that had the worst case of shingles I had EVER seen. These are incredibly painful. She came wrapped in a towel because she could not stand to put a shirt on. In the US she would have been hospitalized. I gave her what I had: Tylenol. She never complained. By the coconut grape vine (amazing Haitian hard work/connections) medicine would be brought to her the following day from Port au Prince 5 hours away. She tested positive for HIV. Yes, we have limited lab capabilities. I referred her to the nearest HIV clinic but the only transportation is walk or motorcycle ride. It is unlikely that she will be able to get there and the clinic that I referred her to needs a lot of improvement. She will likely die. Those are the sad stories.

The joyful stories have to do with the Haitian people that are running this mission. What a joy to be with people who work hard and care about their work. With so little, they do so much. As before they welcomed us into their homes and their lives. For this I am incredibly grateful. Every night there was a prayer service and they would sing in strong beautiful voices in the mountains these voice travel straight up! We had so much fun playing games and sharing music.

- Marlene Rickert

Seeing Haiti for the first time

There are 3 of us on this trip experience Haiti for the first time and we wanted to share some of our thoughts. Port-au-Prince was hot, congested, and taking in the sights was overwhelming. The truck we took from the airport, lovingly known as "The Beast" brought us safely to Jacmel through the amazing mountains which are lush and green with palms trees scattered throughout the countryside. It was a relief to be at our first stop. The hotel there was beautiful and the sights breath-taking. None of were expecting the next leg of the trip and what that entailed. We knew we were going to cross the river, we didn't know it actually meant IN THE RIVER. We crossed 14 times and the Jeep got stuck twice. We made it though and each of us is stronger for it :) Meeting the people of Zorange was like seeing old family again. They were so welcoming with big smiles, kisses and hugs. Relief set in again. Arriving on the second day at the mobile clinic in Gandou brought several hundred people and a little bit of anxiety to us. How would we see all these people? How would we know who to see first? What if they needed further medical care? The anxiety was quickly washed away by our fearless leader and the others who supply such amazing leadership to this group. We did it. We saw the patients and left with our hearts filled with love for these amazing people that do and give so much with so little.

Finally we are able to post

The week has been flying by. We had a great day of clinic in Zorange on Monday. Dr. Kim trained Nurse Magdoline on how to conduct eye exams. Pamela and Kim S. saw several pregnant women with Nurse Luska using the portable ultrasound machine. The permanent ultrasound machine arrived safely, but the probes are missing, making training next to impossible! Ultrasound tech Pamela will have to come to Zorange again. Sara saw a lot of kids, and everyone was grateful to have a pediatric NP on the trip. After clinic, Marlene did a classroom training with the nurses on removing objects from the ears, with one of the translators serving as the patient. The nurses had lots of questions on all subject matters, mostly having to do with difficult cases that they don't have the ability to treat in Zorange. What should be done for these people? Marlene was great at giving them tips for first aid and stabilizing the patients to send them on the long journey to Bainet, Jacmel or beyond.

Yesterday and today (Tuesday and Wednesday) we headed to Gandou and set up a mobile clinic at the future site of HFHF's second clinic. The distance is only 5 miles from Zorange, but it is an hour trip over very rough turrain. As we got bumped and bruised as we were tossed about in the car, we could not imagine how sick patients manage to make their way to the Zorange clinic. We saw about 65 patients the first day, and had to send some people home to come back today. This morning when we arrived, there were hundreds of patients waiting to be seen. It was difficult to know that we could not see them all. The need for a clinic in the area is clear.

We saw so many people with high blood pressure...really high! This included many pregnant women with blood pressure so high they were in danger of have a seizure. We worked with the resources we had and Kim Sniffen even made a consult call to the US. We saw a woman whose husband said she was fine 5 months ago except that she had high blood pressure - well 5 months ago she "fell out" and has not been able to understand words or speak other than saying "oui' - but not purposefully. She had left side weakness and her pressure was still 170/110. We treated her but it was sad to tell her husband that we could not fix the damage that had been done. She was only 50.

Meanwhile in Zorange, Nurse Luska had several pregnant women and eye patients who arrived while we were in Gandou, and told them to come back tomorrow. So we will have another full day of clinic in Zorange tomorrow. We will also train with the nurses after clinic on seizures, bacteriology, and pediatric treatment questions.

The team is great, and everyone is up for one adventure after the next. Whether we are pushing vehicles through the river, riding like a cowboy in the back of a jeep, learning line dances, playing Yuker, dodging tarantulas, or wrestling with the difficulty of seeing severely ill patients, everyone has remained in high spirits and is enjoying themselves. The nursing team in Haiti continues to do an amazing job. It's hard to believe we just have one more full day here in beautiful Zorange before we make our way back to Port-au-Prince.

The dorm is amazing!!!

Hopefully some of the other girls will post next...they are off rapelling cliffs or something...GO GIRL POWER. First mobile clinic to Gandou - ALL GIRLS!!!

See ya,
Lydia and Kim S

Day 1

Good morning everyone! We arrived safely in Jacmel last night and will be heading up the mountain via the riverbed this morning. Getting a late start due to car trouble, but we are making great use of this time. Mirlande, the clinic director, met us here and we are going over many things with her. The web is such an awesome way to share information with the Haitian nurses. Thanks to all of you who made Internet in Zorange a reality! I can feel Gods Presence covering all of us this morning! The new travelers are anxious to get to Zorange and the rest of us old timers can't wait to get to our "home" in Haiti!! I am sure we will have some wonderful adventures to share in the next few days!

Kim Sniffen

Give Us Some Credit

We don't mean to "take all the credit" here, but we're pretty excited about our recent partnership with Visa, which now makes it easy to support HFHF with your everyday purchases! With the new Hope for Haiti Foundation Visa Platinum Rewards Card, you can show your support of HFHF's mission every time you shop. It couldn't be easier to give back, just by doing the things you already do everyday!

When you apply for and use your new Hope for Haiti Foundation card, the bank will donate $50 and a percentage of all your future purchases on the card to HFHF. Plus, you'll get all the benefits of a Visa Platinum Rewards card, such as bonus points for airline tickets, merchandise and a low introductory APR on purchases.

There is no annual fee, and you can pick from five different card designs. With gorgeous photos like these, it's easy to picture yourself somewhere warm and happy just by looking in your wallet!



You can learn more and apply for the card here: http://www.cardpartner.com/affinity/app/hfhf. Thanks for your continued support!

Rock your world!

Despite the serious work Hope for Haiti Foundation does, really, we ain't lookin' for nothin' but a good time...or at least that will be the case this Friday at our inaugural "Rock Your World! Tune in. Turn up. Reach out." benefit concert!

Band of Brothers, a party band covering songs from the 70s & 80s, will rock & roll all night at the The Pour House in downtown Raleigh on October 7. In addition to great music & dancing, we'll have drinks, a silent auction, door prizes and raffles, with Gino Anacleto from CW 22 there as our trusty emcee all night long.

Doors open at 7 p.m., with music starting around 8 and lasting until midnight. Tickets are $7 in advance/$10 at the door, and VIP tickets, which include a private bar, full buffet & special table seating, are available for $100. Tickets can be purchased online at http://rockyourworldraleigh.com/. This is a 21+ event.

All proceeds go to HFHF's work in rural Haiti, and you won't want to miss this great event!This is the first year that we've put on a benefit concert, but we hope to have the opportunity to make Rock Your World! an event that Triangle music fans can look forward to for years to come.

So if you Wanna Dance With Somebody, grab two tickets (to paradise) and come on out! Hey, we know it's only rock & roll, but we like it.

(Speaking of our fearless emcee, check out Gino & Hope for Haiti Foundation's TV debut in this TV spot about the concert!)

Hope in Haiti

This past week, a an allstar team from from Hope Community Church, one of HFHF's first and largest partners, has been down in Haiti helping out & surveying the work that HCC has played such a crucial role in making a reality. Karl Moraski, Hope's worship leader, has been faithfully blogging from the computer lab & we highly recommend tuning in for updates from the field!

Some highlights include:

• An inside look at the Gandou community, home of our next medical clinic
• A tour of the freshly painted school (& updates on some of the cool new technology coming out of Zorange)
• And a potential Bob Segar "NightMoves" reference? (plus, a definite Bon Jovi shoutout)

And as an added bonus because we love ya, an amazing photographer, Josh Hancock, has been snapping pictures all trip! If these don't get you packing your bags & Pricelining flights to Port au Prince, we don't know what will!

Enjoy the updates, try not to drool & have your people call our people when you're ready to river suit up & join us!

Take our hand & we'll make it, we swear,

The HFHF Team

P.S. Fun fact: Karl is also in Band of Brothers, who will be rockin it out at the Rock Your World concert next weekend -- more to come on that soon!