News, Features & Inspirational Readings

It is still a confused and seemingly, at times, incomprehensible lack of communication and planning.  The first days were filled with those dying from wounds that if there were adequate medical would be alive today.  It was hard to watch, then came  the stage where many were dying from septicemia from somewhat simple fractures that went untreated or treated in such a way that cement was sewn into wounds or because regular household thread was used.  We are now dealing with follow up so that wounds get re bandaged with  many just covered in gauze so you imagine what pain it has been for patients to have those bandages removed. 

There has been little pain medication available.  From the beginning the plan has been for those who can go they are encouraged to get to family in country.  Unfortunately, getting food and medical care has not been in place, only getting folks out of Port of Prince.  The sad part is the country side people are already hungry and adding 500 to a village of 400 people is causing major problems.  It is crazy as many need follow up nursing care, good food and shelter where the people who live there don't ever have it on a daily basis.

I took a cardiac-thoracic surgeon to the airport who has been here for 2 days as he realized the need for him had been long past but there was no way for him to check this before coming.  Many are coming with supplies through the DR and again by hit and miss find a place to set up a road side clinic and get started.  It helps but the follow up is also lacking.  Every time we are asked for our needs I ask for tents for the 1,300 folks and  food.  Since January 12, I have received one food distribution that went to about 6 of 700  families.  I was never told it was coming and had it not been for the really good neighborhood committee organizing this, a potential riot was there. 

I think we did so well, we were not news worthy nor were we considered for another one despite the success of the first. So, for folks wanting to know what Haiti needs.  Someone to question why Haiti is in the condition it is?  Find out what the First World

 policies have been with regard to Haiti.  Then the need has changed from acute to follow up, to talking, listening and being with those who are alive as they continue to bury their dead.  To push all the head organizers to find a way to get food to people, to do more than just push people out of 4th city;  and if groups come, to think of going to other parts of Haiti.  We are now needing Humanitarian aid.

Hope you get this with all my mistakes.  I am tired, frustrated and sad that a country with such wonderful people could be living in the conditions they live in.  Please send my love and thanks to all.  I feel the strength from all your prayers.  Much love to all

Report from Sr. Mary of the Matthew 25 House Ministry

(via Rev. Lynnette Delbridge, Staten Island, NY 10314)

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