Our last day and evening

"Traveling through the city of Cap Haitien puts the traffic on the 405 in a whole new light...traveling via school bus through crowded streets while hundreds of people wander in and out of traffic, donkeys pulling carts, and motorcycles whizzing past, at times you are so close you can touch the other vehicles! It is noisy, dusty, busy and wonderful...you truly experience the "beat" of the people and the city. Working here in Haiti is both everything and nothing you expect, and still...I can't wait to come back..."Sarah G

"What stood out to me today was going to Mirdage's school. It was like nothing I would ever imagine a school to be, at least not in the States. Even while the conditions were shocking, the students were beautifully dressed and well behaved. They were gracious and loving while we were there. We were able to bring few jump ropes and balls and had the opportunity to pass some of them out before we left. Watching the kids immediately grab their new equipment and take off to play was awesome,and then we were able to join in on the fun. We held a lot of hands an had a lot of laughs. It was a humbling and beautiful morning. God is good." -Lauren 

"Today I went to Mirdage's school and I was moved in ways I never thought I could be. All of the kids were so happy and so cute even though they didn't have much. I didn't know what so say that would make there lives better. When we actually got to talk to them and play with them I realized that there was nothing that we could do but love them they had everything that they needed and that they were happy with what they had. So it was an extremely moving day for me not just because the I got attached to the kids but because of how they looked but because of the way they acted. Today was a good day." ~Kaitlyn

"Today was the  first day I was able to breath a sigh and sit back just to watch my wonderful team at work. We have been in clinic for the whole week, tirelessly in an effort to serve those in need. I haven't been able to sit back and just watch how well the team worked together. But today during our teaching session, I had time to sit back and just observe an amazing team at work. I saw a team full of love for each other and the people of Haiti." -Dr. Summer

Mirdage's School today

More photos from Thursday

Team members reflect

Today wrapped up the last day of our clinics, totaling 1,007 patients over the course of our trip. We are floored by this number but then again, it is a great reminder of God's power and how he can work through his people. Together we have laughed and cried, been tested and challenged, and through it all we sweated-a lot! Everyone is ending the day with multiple kairos moments, a term we have been using to describe a time where God was extremely present. Let me share a few with you from over the course of our clinics...

"Events at the O.R. were especially exciting as three to four members of our group came and went to observe and assist with surgeries.  It was a great blessing to see everyone working together and using tools under the instruction of Dr. Dan. The last procedure did not finish until the sun had set.  The patient began thanking us and immediately jumped up and gave Dr. Dan a hug just as we finished his bandage. It was beautiful to see a small glimpse into how God can bless lives and bring joy." -Patrick 

Seeing ordinary people step out of their comfort zone (me and others).  Finding stamina, energy and calm beyond what we feel we have inside of ourselves.  Definely God inside, our heart, giving us wisdom in our souls and his light shinning through our eyes...   He is amazing... Love this team. And the Haitian people...  Jackie 

Working in Haiti is about as far removed from Irvine as a person can get. We have become masters of improvisation...cleaning and treating wounds on grassy slopes, creating sun shades from shower curtains and rigging up triage stations...not to mention the creative methods we have found for transporting our supplies! Though we are tired, we have managed to find the extra energy to keep going...looking forward to sharing our stories with all of you when we return...Sarah G

Getting ready to teach classes tomorrow and visit Mirdage's school

Thursday's clinic

Triage today at our final clinic in Eben Ezer up on the mountain. 

Waiting to see a provider. 

We're finished and ready to get on the bus. Dr. Dan and his crew (Annie, Kaitlyn, and Patrick) were still in surgery. 

Photo of the group this a.m. before our last clinic