Giving back to Haiti is a cause that we deeply care about at Sons and Daughters of Haiti, which is why we are passionate about making a real, lasting difference in the country. With a successful turnout at our inaugural 5K Run/Walk back in May and an outpour of donations, we were able to organize a medical mission trip to Haiti. We were excited about the opportunity to execute the first of our many initiatives—to improve the quality of life for Haitians, particularly where health care is concerned.

This summer, our team arrived to Cap-Haitian on a warm and bright Monday morning and drove to Pignon for a challenging and rewarding experience. After settling down and preparing for the days ahead, we were able to witness firsthand the conditions of the country and the needs of the people. Friends, there’s still more work to be done!

On Tuesday morning, our team met with the administrative staff of L’hopital Bienfaissance de Pignon, where we were warmly welcomed. Our team’s physician, Dr. Laveaux worked alongside the hospital’s obstetrician to perform a cesarean section. Ensuring the successful surgical operation, Dr. Laveaux and SND’s president, Aly Laveaux got a tour of the facility and met with several of the patients.

We also got an opportunity to discuss and lay down some concrete plans for future mission trips with the hospital staff. The meeting proved to be successful as we are confident that we will see more of a direct impact at our next health clinic. We anticipate partnering with more hospitals throughout the rural parts of the country.

We spent our Wednesday with the youth in the village, most of whom were attending Vacation Bible School at a nearby campsite. We assisted in coaching the children in a variety of sports and taught them the fundamentals of good sportsmanship. The children were excited and their smiles gave our team hope and strength—a much needed impetus to see our vision realized.

On Thursday, we returned to L’hopital Bienfaissance de Pignon to conduct insightful lectures for the medical staff. Dr. Laveaux discussed abnormal bleeding and uterine fibroids, two health conditions that are quite common within the country’s female population.  Our goals were to impart some medical knowledge and help reinforce a solid foundation for the staff’s ongoing careers. Based on their participation and feedback, the staff was appreciative of the information we shared.

We took advantage of our leisure time by hiking and strolling through Cormier Beach. Our biggest take away from our mission trip is that no effort is too small. We look forward to doing more, one journey at a time.  We are grateful to Brother’s Brother Foundation for donating the medication and medical supplies, and are excited to get back to work. Learn how you can help us here.