Haitians Writing Haiti's Story
Cherident, Haiti. Many who hear of this town seldom know where it is. Once we explain its en route halfway between Leogane and Jacmel, they understand. Yet, this town has a large population, and at that the needs in healthcare are still present on a daily basis.
It is here, on a long road between two of the largest cities in Haiti, beneath mountains and between plots of farmed land; Haiti Healthcare Partners chose to establish a medical fa...cility 10 years ago. Led by Haitian doctors and nurses, the clinic has seen roughly over 35,000 patients. More than a clinic, the medical team of HHP serves the people living in the Grand Colline region of Haiti. The clinic is a key pillar within the community, providing not only ongoing health services but also essential economic opportunities for those whom the clinic employs.
Economic development is focused primarily within the larger cities, few NGO's take time and risk investing in rural Haitian society; thus, a vacuum is created in this growing society within Haiti.
On a recent trip to Haiti, I spoke with many mothers, all of them shared with me their young children (ages ranging 17-20 something) have left their homes in search of employment in larger cities. Cities such as Cherident and surrounding communes offer very little opportunity for further education and job placement. As I spoke with these mothers, they shared similar situations concerning their husbands (or fathers of their children). The look within their eyes seem to say to me, "please bring my family back".
Later in the week, students attending a wonderful HEF school in Cherident shared with me their dreams in becoming doctors- both have plans to leave Cherident upon graduation. "What if more opportunities for employment and education were available here, would you stay?", I asked. Without any hesitation both the young students agreed they would stay and work in rural Haiti.
Looking at the team of Haitian professionals we have at the clinic, I am amazed. I am amazed because they are writing a new chapter in Haiti's story. Their presence in the clinic not only serves to help individuals and families become healthier. Their presence within rural Haiti signifies their own belief in their country as they take up the risk and time to serve their people.
The look in the eyes of mothers, searching for their sons and husbands; the tears of despair from the young man dreaming to be a doctor- looks turned to letters as Haitians working today write new words of hope for Haiti's unforgotten people.