Carffou Effe
Friday, February 12, 2010 at 12:06AM (Incorrectly spelled, sorry.)
Today we returned to the destroyed school where we went last Wednesday. This is the school where I saw the records from Compassion International which were scattered on the floor of the office that was too unstable for retrieval.
We were able to set up fairly quickly due to the familiarity of the space. This time the court yard/playground area was filled with benches and covered with tarps. This provided much needed shade for the patients.
We switched our routine and are now giving everyone worm treatments before the vital signs station rather than just before they left. What a treat this week to have enough support members to have vitals on everyone as well as weights on the kids! Last week we each took our own vital signs.
It rained early this morning for a few hours. I had mixed emotions about the rain. It sounded wonderful, cooled the night air and calmed the dust, but it made the day more humid, mosquitoes worse soon and the worst part was thinking about all the people living in the open under tents made of scraps of cloth & plastic.
I just checked with one of the team members. Between the seven of us we saw 191 patients in four hours (A little over six patients an hour a piece, all going through an interpreter).
At one point it was a bit concerning as it sounded like the crowd outside the gate was getting angry, but it calmed quickly. Getting in and out of this community was difficult due to the narrow streets, rubble & tents in the road and the steepness of the hills. If people had gotten angry and we would have had to leave quickly for safety purposes, it could have gotten messy.
This week we were blessed with a large suitcase of glasses. So many people lost their glasses in the earthquake. Many of these people are struggling to see and having headaches now. It was so exciting to be able to direct them to the "glasses station" to see if some pair ofglasses might help a bit until an optometric clinic can be reestablished. Certainly not like going to see one of our OD's at home, but the people are so grateful.
Of all of our cases today, one really stands out. A small baby was brought to be seen who was listless. An IV was put in and she was hydrated for the remainder of the clinic, but she was still poorly responsive. When the clinic was done Mom & baby were put into the front of one of out trucks and brought to the General Hospital in the city. The ride took us at least 45 minutes, so you know that she couldn't have been able to make the trip other wise. When we finally left the hospital the baby was about to be seen & Mom was left with some money & food. We pray that the baby survives.
Jeremy talked with some of the nurses at the hospital. Apparently they have been working non stop for weeks. Some doing 24 hour shifts just to get the shifts covered. He volunteered our services (Jeremy,Christian & myself), so it looks like we may be helping in the ER this weekend to give some of them a much needed break. Be praying for us! It's been a long time since I've worked an ER. Fortunately Christianis an ER nurse!
Reader Comments (6)
Eva--I haven't been in contact with you in forever, but your mom and I are friends on FB. My mom is Doris Darrow. Don't know if you recall that you came to Scott's and my home here in Colo Springs when you were in school in Denver, I believe. I've heard about you off and on from Glenn and Jeanette, and/or your folks. Your mom wrote about you being in Haiti and about your blog, so I've been trying to keep up with it. Blessings on you and your team and all the lives you touch. May God give you the strength, focus and wisdom for the days at hand.
hugs from your distant cousin--
Joanne
Hi Eva! My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you as you do this extremely important work in Haiti. Every time I feel a "twinge" in my back, I remember how very blessed I am to be able to take medicine, a nice warm bath in clean water, and to rest in a comfortable bed...and how truly fortunate we are here at "home". I have no doubt that you'll do marvelous work in the ER this weekend...your healing hands will bring comfort, improve health, and even save lives. Your spirit and your giving nature is awe-inspiring, and reminds me everyday that there are indeed angels here on Earth! God bless you and your team...may He keep you safe, strong, and supported in all the good works you are doing. We love and miss you! :-)
Was blessed to read your Blog this morning and see how GOD is using you everyday. I pray that you are able to get your rest and food that agrees with you. We are such a Blessed people and take so many things for granted. We certainly can't comprehend what these people have endured. I Pray that God will continue to guide You and your TEAM with Health, Strength, and Wisdom to handle each situation that you have to deal with.
I have several pairs of glasses here and will contact Tabitha next week to see where I can send them. Better there than here in a drawer. Take Care and God Bless YOU.
Brenda
Eva,
We pray God gives you and your team the strength to continue the wonderful work you are providing. We pray for your safe return . We really appreciate you keeping us updated
Love, Donna and family
Eva, thanks for updating! As I read, tears fill my eyes for all that these people are going through. I know this is not an easy task to undertake, but I know that God is giving you the strength and wisdom you need. I continue to pray for you and your team and the Haitan people! Love, Debbie
Eva,
I Have not read every entry you have made, but I have watched the news intently. Bless you for your contributions ! I am so proud of you and your team's efforts. I will continue to pray for you and those you are trying to help. Sue