Interviews...

I was asked by the board of Healing Hands for Haiti to meet with each staff member and listen to their stories and express the support of the board. I began these interviews today. I think the staff thought that we were going to fire them. They seemed nervous talking with me whereas they are typically so happy to see me.

I told them that we just wanted to get the chance to check in with them and find out how they and their families are after the earthquake. The stories were almost all the same. All have lost family and most have lost their houses, none will sleep inside. The stories are devastating and it is clear that they are all still terrified. So much healing is needed.

We have a staff member who was married on December 26th, 17 days before the earthquake, and her brand new husband died in the earthquake. Another staff member lost both his sons and his daughter lost a leg. How do you mourn and deal with healing when you are sleeping under tarps and sheets on the street or in your own yard.

Those whose homes did not collapse are sleeping in their yards for fear of sleeping inside. They will run in to grab the things they need from their homes, then run back out. Our staff are all asking for tents. It is impossible to buy tents in Haiti at this time. Some staff told me today that they sleep under a sheet or a cloth tied to a couple of sticks. Last night when it rained and other nights when it has rained and the wind is blowing they went to the local bar and spent the night awake. Then had to go to work in the morning.

I continue to be amazed by the strength and perseverance of our wonderful staff and all of Haiti.

Today is Friday. I am worrying that I have a week left and still so much to do! Nothing ever gets done fast enough. I guess I just need to get done what I can and go from there. Bon Weekend!