It has been a long hot few weeks with minimal power here in Haiti. The power has decided it likes to come on in the middle of the night and then turn off before I decide to get in the shower in the morning. Thank you power, thank you. Though this is all ok as I don’t really need daily showers…I do however love the idea of a cooling fan and some computer time.
Today is Haitian Flag Day and it is a big National holiday around here. Apparently there are going to be parades in Cap and other festivities. I am hoping this also means there will be electricity as they will need a way to run their loads of speakers used during festivals, thankfully we reap the benefits as well.
As far as births go it has been a very busy time here at the clinic. We had 3 births within 12 hours and then another woman came in and delivered last night. What does this mean for the rest of us ‘non-midwives’? It means lots of birth noises, hooting, hollering, lending of headlamps/getting new batteries for them when their lights run out and waiting for the sweet sound of a crying baby-which signals the end of the above mentioned noises. I think birth is an AMAZING process and I am happy to be a part of an organization that is helping woman to have a positive birth experience. I have not been to a birth outside of this center but I hear they leave a lot to be desired. One of our midwives even had the pleasure of naming one of the babies which is commonly asked of those who aid in the births, along with asking if you will be the godmother. This is a great honor though as we found out being a godmother means a significant financial commitment which is not necessarily know upon graciously accepting the title J All future volunteers be warned, being a godmother entails paying for baptism parties, clothing and college…accept at your own risk.
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Midwife Jessica and baby Tomas Lee |
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| I love when the kids get involved...here come some zuccini, edemame, peas and carrots |
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| Marie and Monise enjoying the beach |
We went to the beach again last weekend which was awesome and much needed. It was packed with other humanitarian workers we have met along our journey here in Haiti and it was nice to see everyone taking a little extra time for themselves. Though most were still ‘working’ in some capacity, either reading about Tropical diseases, working on new projects, sitting in the shade on their laptops or emailing feverishly on their kindles (that was us). There is so much work here that needs to be done that I understand the need and drive to continue working even when you are ‘off’. The other palpable feeling is that of guilt as we sit on the beach we paid $5 to get into and sip on fresh juice while so much of the country cannot and will not ever get to experience this. I rationalize by understanding that if I am not taking time to enhance my sanity then my patients will not receive the best care. Though I admit, the guilt remains.
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| We love to decorate for birthdays! |
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| Santo learns to play pool |
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