So it’s now the beginning of week 4 — Clara and Jen have returned home and Mary Jean has arrived safely to share this last week with me. I have noticed that I am starting to break down a little so I decided to take the day off (my first since April 3rd) for my own mental and physical health. While taking the ride to Port au Prince to see Clara and Jen off and to pick up Mary was great, it certainly was not a very effective way to help my mental state — driving through Port au Prince the second time around was worse than the first time — the destruction and the poverty are so immense there are no words to describe what I have seen and what I feel.
I do know, however, that we cannot loose sight of the extent of the needs that are still very much present in Haiti. While the media may have stopped showing it, we cannot forget it or ignore it. It was great to see that a large number of individuals arriving at the PAP airport this afternoon were relief and medical workers. But much more is still desperately needed! Below are a few photos that should explain what I’m trying to say….
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Hey Cristiana!
After reading your blogs and looking at the pictures, all I can honestly say is WOW! I’m actually speechless for once (and yes, I know it’s difficult for you to believe that). I can speak for myself and on behalf of the LIU PT students; we are proud of you and you’re work for the Haitian community is very admirable. Your courage and enthusiasm is apparent and an inspiration for all of us.
Good luck Cristiana and keep up the great work!!!
-Jack
God bless you Christiana
Mary is privileged to share this experience with you and you both are terrific. She has already expressed her shock, despair, amazement with the compassion of those living in the community, hope, and faith. Take care of yourself as well as others. We will all return together to continue to make what progress we can. We’ll talk when you both return and plan for another step that I might help with as well.
Ladies Be well. Be safe.
Keith
My PT friends,
I am so proud of you. Your work there is amazing. One day I hope that I will be able to join in and help you. Stay safe. My prayers are with you.
Jen (Mary Jean’s sister)