Monday, Lendi

Thank the world for cellular phones and Digicel in Haiti! Jill and Barb have been able to connect with the groups in Port au Prince and Les Cayes for quick check-ins as we continue to work through the week. Barb & Jill hit the tent clinic running this morning. "Clinic ReAdaptation" in Jacmel was in full swing with patients waiting for us as we arrived. We treated 24 patients, mostly with orthopedic injuries from earthquake related injuries. Our treatment areas were a "plinth" made out of a few cinder blocks and a back board, a rubbermaid tub with a camping mat on top of it and a camping mat on the floor. We continue to be flexible and make the equipment work to be what we want it to be! Many smiles and "mesi" were shared as we gave out lumbar supports, wrist and knee braces and educated in exercises. We both chuckled and were in awe when one of our patients, who survived a stroke, got on the back of a motorcycle with his new AFO and cane to go home. Only in Haiti...

Jamie reports that she, Wendy, Leah and Keith spent the day again at the University of Miami Medishare tent. The rehabilitative work is great and fruitful. We are working to stay hydrated and cool down in the raising thermometer tent heat.

Sue called to report that she, Kevin, Terry and Bob are very busy in Les Cayes. They started work last night when they arrived and finally taking a breather tonight! They casted for 7 prostheses, including BKA and AKAs. They have also casted for 2 AFOs. Busy bees... They are working at a 50 bed hospital called Fante Lumiere and most of the patients were displaced from PAP after the earthquake to make room at the city hospitals for other patients. Working beside them are 3 physical therapists from New York.

Thank you to Gail Buck for organizing us and our communication, you're the best!