Today we had the privilege of visiting a new partner with Healing Haiti, an orphanage for children with special needs. When we arrived, the 20 children were gathered in a nice tiled room at the front of the building. It was a good spot, as the breeze came through to keep everyone cool. They were excited to see us, and our team all stepped in to interact and get to know the children. One girl 'chose' me (Debbie). She couldn't walk, but scooted over to my legs and looked up at me with her beautiful eyes and I sat down to be with her. She really likes to have her back massaged and has a great smile - her name is Diane. Another boy named Bradley came up to me (Tony) and was quick to join in on a little game and continually wanted to play, he was all smiles. Many of the children were eager to have our attention and to be held and played with. Since this was a first experience for a Healing Haiti team, we had no idea what to expect or plan for. We sang some songs and they loved it, so we got the guitar, and Michael played and we all sang some more. Oh, it was so much fun! One guy, Fonz, got some wonderful loud clapping going as he joined in to the beat of the music. As Michael strummed instrumentally, one of the workers started humming a tune. Soon it turned into a loud impromptu sing along, a Haiitian-inspired hallelujah song! This was the highlight of our time while serving these wonderful people.
-Debbie and Tony
Home for Sick and Dying Babies
The other half of our group were blessed with the heart breaking visit to the Home for Sick and Dying Babies. The ward that had the sickest babies was filled with about 10 children in various states of health. We jumped in, each one of us, regardless of whatever ailed the child, picked them up, and held them. They were thin, quiet, and when those big brown eyes opened, there was nothing to do but hold them as close to your heart as you could. I (Tracy) picked a child named "Jeff" who happened to be next to "Elvis" and put him on my shoulder. We hung together the entire time, ate a few times, and slept in my arms. I could do nothing for him but hold him close, talk to him, and pray silently for this child whom no one came to visit. Other parents came and went, but we were alone. The emotions that I felt upon surrendering him to his crib overcame me, and the tears came quickly.
-Tracy
General Hospital
Today was my first ever visit to General Hospital. I've been to Haiti 2 times before, and to be honest, I've avoided this visit. It was definitely far outside of my comfort zone. We brought care packages for everyone, many donations and fresh, cold water. Although they received our gifts with so much joy, it still didn't feel like enough. The facility was lacking basic supplies, so we brought with us some formula and diapers. So many sick, sick babies. The nurses asked us to take one of the abandoned babies. His parents coudn't care for him and so they abandoned him at the hospital. Many of the babies needed fresh diapers, more food, and physical touch. It was beyond overwhelming. I wish I could have done more but I'm so glad for what we did do.
-Nikki
Water truck day, in front of Hope Church
Water truck day, on the pier
Half the team getting ready for the Home for Sick and Dying Babies
Artisans at the Apparent Project, making paper beads
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