Well, we are winding down our mission. As we continue to discharge as many patients as possible, the Navy is getting ready to make plans to leave soon. I was so happy to be able to accompany some of my patients to shore today. We take a Navy boat into Port au Prince dock & put the kids on transportation to various orphanages or medical facilities. I do believe in my heart that these are good placements for them. One in particular, Emmanuel, was able to have his mom with him- they are all that remain in their family. His mom printed a beautiful letter to all the staff- we saw her writing for about the last 4 days- didn't know what she was so busy doing with the translators. She wrote it in Creole & then had them translate it so she caould give it to us. That little boy lost most of his right side of his face- but with his rebuilt nose & injuries healing, he is doing really well. His mother's words that stay with me are: "I can't stop say thank you and thank you very much". She quoted the Bible, in Psalms 46- "God is our refuge & strength, and ever present help in trouble"- how true.
So, we find out time coming to a close. Some many wonderful people that I have worked along side- trying to just do a little something to ease the pain & raise the spirits. What a wonderful journey this was for me....
I should be heading home in a few days.
One other note- I had the unique experience of feeling an earthquake during the night- actually 2, but one was pretty strong- I was glad I was on the ship (-:
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Hi Kath-bet you are looking forward to your own bed and some hugs. Getting more snow but it is a bit warmer during the day so it's melting.Looking forward to more stories and some bridge.Have a safe journey home.
ReplyDeleteDee
Kathy--You rock! Great job in Haiti, and after what you've been through I know you will continue to do great things!
ReplyDeleteEverything you are doing is awesome. Your work on COMFORT must make rock climbing a breeze.
Since Lent has begun, I'll leave you with some (hopefully) encouraging words. Better said by my namesake--be safe, take care, and hope to continue to read about your experiences.
"Seeing the crowds, he went onto the mountain. And when he was seated his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak. This is what he taught them: 3 How blessed are the poor in spirit: the kingdom of Heaven is theirs.
4 Blessed are the gentle: they shall have the earth as inheritance. Blessed are those who mourn: they shall be comforted. 6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for uprightness: they shall have their fill. 7 Blessed are the merciful: they shall have mercy shown them.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart: they shall see God. 9 Blessed are the peacemakers: they shall be recognised as children of God.
10 Blessed are those who are persecuted in the cause of uprightness: the kingdom of Heaven is theirs. 14 'You are light for the world. A city built on a hill-top cannot be hidden."
Go Navy,
Matt
P.S. Can Catholics quote the Bible? Better check with the Padre (that's for you, Patty)
Kathy,
ReplyDeleteSounds like you are doing amazing work down there! We are all in awe.
We are all looking forward to your safe return!
Being the techno dork that I am, I did not realize that you can actually read the comments on your blog. It seems like yesterday that you left, and I know your heart is filled with joy and sorrow from this experience. I listened to a program on NPR about the Navy's commitment to the caregivers' care for each other so that the medical team can decompress and maintain sanity through out their mission in Haiti. Sounded like you are among some very special people. can't wait to see you and hear all!
ReplyDeleteLove ya, Celia
I'm looking for your next and maybe last post to say Homeward Bound!I think you will have mixed feelings about leaving your little charges but you and the rest of JHH Go Team should be so proud of your contributions. See you soon and safe trip home!
ReplyDeletehi Kathy, and rest assured, though your journey home will surely be bittersweet, your charges here ( young and old) are waiting for you! You and the Go Team are amazing..what else can I say but have a safe journey home. Love, Patty
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful opportunity you have had and shared with all of us. We must never forget how blessed we are with this precious human life. Pray for the victims of the earthquake in Chile. Looking forward to your next post and getting together when you are back. Have a safe journey home.
ReplyDelete