Cholera

Tenth months after the earthquake that struck our neighbors in the Caribbean, people are getting sick. Surprised? Hopefully not. Out of sight...out of mind? Ignorance is bliss? Did you know that Haiti has only received 2% of the money promised to the United Nations? As of the reports released in July 2010, the United States of America has paid ZERO of our promise for $1.15 billion. I ask all Americans...is this acceptable?

The primary objective of the treatment of CHOLERA is to replace fluids and electrolytes lost through diarrhea. The warehouse managed by the WHO in the Port-au-Prince area is filled with IV fluids and electrolyte replacement packets.

Thanks to the broken immigration policies of the United States of America, Robert and I are struggling to get a visa for our son Jean Ronel (aka Chi Chi) to join us here. Our granddaughter, Rose Berline (now 14 months old) is one of the millions in Haiti most at risk for contracting Cholera. Our hearts are frustrated as we educate and encourage sanitation from thousands of miles away.

When I come home from work exhausted, I wonder how to best support my husband who is watching the events in Haiti unfold. My words are tangled in tears. This situation is unbelievable. Even those lacking knowledge about Haiti were predicting this type of epidemic.

The situation in Haiti is UNACCEPTABLE. The situation in Haiti is INHUMANE. The situation in Haiti is INEXCUSABLE. We need to be the voice for our brothers and sisters in Haiti. Please take 15 minutes of your day and contact your Congressional representative and tell them to ACT NOW...not tomorrow, not after the elections...NOW before more Haitians needlessly die.

Haitian Paintings for Sale

Taino inspired paintings from Haiti. The island of Hispanola (Haiti and the
Dominican Republic) possess the richest heritage of cave art in the
Caribbean. The indigenous Indians were skilled at hunting, sailing, fishing,
canoe making and navigation. The artwork displayed here are examples
from Haitian artists. We have a small inventory of different sizes to suit
your needs. Contact Robert via email at robertlaneau@yahoo.com
if you are interested. The framed painting is an example of how this art
can look with professional framing.

Mr. Magnet

Robert has begun a new adventure. The idea was inspired by our dear friend Jessie Mason. Jessie is a creative soul who spent time with Robert talking about life and creating opportunities. Robert has embraced the idea of creating magnets with names, quotes or sayings. Today he is starting his venture at the Sacramento Midtown Bazaar where he has over 300 magnets to sell. A portion of the proceeds will help our family and friends in Haiti. The transformation of a man struggling to find himself in a new culture to a man filled with confidence is like watching a blossom flower into a magnificent thing of beauty.

Thank you to everyone who has supported this thus far. Anyone interested in joining in the fun can place orders at robertlaneau@yahoo.com

Robert is back

Soledad O'Brien did a wonderful piece for CNN called "Rescued". She focuses on the orphanages in Haiti.

Robert returned to the USA about 3 weeks ago. There is always a complicated period of re-entry. The ups and downs filled with emotions challenge us both. He appears to be adapting in his efforts to figure out what is next for him in this journey.

Haiti appears to have fallen out of the limelight. Conditions are reportedly challenging. We are grateful to have consistent communications via telephone. Our Haitian family never drifts far from thought and prayer.

We are sailing back in the sea of immigration as we try to bring Chi Chi here. Please holds us in thought as we navigate the bureaucracy.

Haiti Earthquake Aftermath Slideshow (Featured)

Call to action

The rains are falling. There is mud. Illness is brewing in the sludge. My heart aches. My mind wanders. My soul cries. My optimism for the future of the Haitian people holds on by thin thread of light.

At a recent social gathering, I heard a woman discussing the plight of Haiti. My ears tuned in to the conversation from across the room. The words that rolled off of her tongue drew me to her. She said, “The situation in Haiti is God’s test for THOSE people to understand his strength.” I picked up my chin off of the floor and sauntered into her physical space. I posed a simple question, “Have you been to Haiti?” As you might imagine this expert on God’s redeeming wisdom replied sheepishly, “no”. I pondered for a moment asking for wisdom, grace and dignity as the voice of my Haitian family. I stood tall and said, “I have been blessed with many opportunities to visit Haiti. I consider myself a spiritual person connected to powers beyond my humanity. There is no benevolent deity within my human consciousness that would test humans walking this earth with the living hell that surrounds my Haitian brothers and sisters.” With eyes larger than the plate she held in her hand, she tipped her glass for a gulp of wine and excused herself to the “ladies room”.

Handicap International declined to offer me the 6 week volunteer position that I pursued after the earthquake. In the wee hours of the morning, Gregory, with his French accent, expressed his enthusiasm about the contents of my curriculum vitae. He continued to explain that I didn’t have enough “international disaster experience” and that HI is focusing efforts to place therapists willing to serve in Haiti for six months or more. Disappointed, I have faith that things manifest for a reason and patience provides the wisdom of understanding. When the time is right another opportunity will sail into my consciousness.

I started hearing fatigue in Robert’s voice last week. During our last conversation on Sunday, he said, “Sweetie, I am tired. I miss you and I want to come home.” That statement is the bittersweet symbolism that has filled my beloved Robert’s life. He is calling Spirit Mountain in Sacramento home, but I know his heart will ache when he boards the plane as he leaves behind Chi Chi…Rose Berline…Papa…Sonja…Madame… and many other relatives and friends. I pray for Robert to be surrounded by light and know that he is loved. His re-entry into life in the USA will certainly require a period of adjustment.

A dear friend of mine posed a question about Haiti recently via email. “What do you think about NGOs, non-profits and then all those I read about who do relief efforts outside of them. Do you think there is a place for all approaches or should relief be distributed through large non-profits only?” Hopefully my words share my perspective on this very complex question.

The echoes of Haitian voices fill my head. The Haitian people yearn for the leadership of their elected government. My limited perspective tells me that the US government and the United Nations (call MINISTAH by Haitians) believe the Haitian government needs to be involved in the recovery of their country. The challenge is that the Haitian government currently lacks a voice and it is apparent the government is not able to stand up and lead. Haitians express a frank distrust of MINISTAH based on the events bound in their historical occupation. Haitians are chronically aware of the corruption that exists within their limited governmental structure.

There is amazing work happening in Haiti by individuals, NGOs, small and large non-profits. The challenge is that there doesn’t appear to be any coordination of these valiant efforts. Some organization is evident between individuals and groups but there doesn’t appear to be a centralized effort to distribute resources in a coordinated and meaningful way. This lack of leadership is one of the major differences between the aftermath of the Haitian disaster and the devastating earthquake in Chile.

Haiti was the first country of predominately black people to establish its independence in 1804, a time when slavery of people indigenous to Africa was the norm. Haitian history demonstrates how money, power and greed steal the hope of humanity. Natural disasters have contributed to the downward spiraling struggle of Haiti. The reality is that the mother earth shook this little island nation’s humanitarian struggle into the world view.

I believe there needs to be an entity that is willing to step up and coordinate the efforts of all the individuals and organizations diligently working in Haiti. A partnership with the Haitian government with clear expectations and accountability for their active participation is crucial for the future of Haiti. There are differing opinions about whether this entity should be the United States or the United Nations.

One thing I know for certain, time is of the essence. Mother earth continues to shake, her skies are crying, her mud is sliding and her seas are swelling. The rainy season in Haiti coincides with the hurricane season. The Haitian spirit is strong but lack of shelter, food, and clean water will take the lives of thousands. Thoughts and prayers are powerful, but the Haitian people need advocates to demand a rapid coordination of efforts.

If you strip away the complexities that bind Haiti to its identity as the poorest country in the western hemisphere, there is a profound story that tells the tale of our human interconnectedness. Our Haitian brothers and sisters need to borrow our voices to sing songs demanding action. We can participate in our governmental process and ask our leaders to facilitate this action. If we choose to make donations to organizations or individuals working in Haiti, we should inquire about how their efforts are being coordinated to support the Haitian people. There is not one simple idea or solution to this humanitarian tragedy, but collectively each of our actions will support the greater good.

And with that I will sign off for now.

Fear

The phone rang early at 5:07 am on Sunday morning. Startled I reached for the phone. Robert was on the line to inform me that another earthquake struck in Northern Haiti. I heard the journalist blaring in Kreyol on the radio in the background…one building collapsed killing numerous people.

The fear swelled in Robert’s voice. My mind went racing through all the things to tell him. First, as always, I told him how much I love him. Then, knowing our phone connection would be brief we discussed strategies for survival in an earthquake and the importance of establishing a plan to meet up with Chi Chi. The line faded and once again, like so many times in our relationship over the past 13 years, I felt helpless.

I was lying on my comfortable bed snuggled in under a mound of warm blankets with the protection of a roof and walls surrounding me. I could feel the pitter patter of my heart as I closed my eyes, took a deep breathe and held an image of my beloved Robert with protective light surrounding him. The comfort of the light allowed me to fall back asleep until 7:03 am.

I drug myself out of bed, sleepy eyed with blonde hairs standing up everywhere on my head, to donn the cozy slippers Robert bought me for Christmas and slip on a sweatshirt. I moved within the comforts of our blessed abode to search for news on the internet. Prior to the earthquake, I would have been skeptical to find anything, but now little Haiti will receive press if the news is deemed to have a human interest component.

I discovered that there was a 4.8 earthquake off of the coast of Cuba early in the morning. Happily mother earth wasn’t quaking in Haiti. I tried to call Robert to let him know as this might alleviate some of his fear. Sadly, the telephone lines cooed indicating no service at this time.

Fear runs through the blood of all Haitians. The schools of Port-au-Prince will be closed for months if not years. Schools were slowly beginning to re-open in the northern part of Haiti during my recent visit. Parents are still afraid to send their kids to school because the building may collapse. Rumors are abundant that the government is going to send someone the check every school to ensure its safety. My heart has doubts but my tongue did not speak this reality to my Haitian brothers and sisters.
Madame, one of the maternal figures in Robert’s life, told us the about the hourly reports after the earthquake stating that a Tsunami was coming. Everyone packed their bags to flee. She showed us her “sachet” (a small plastic shopping bag with knots tied where holes had developed) filled with crumpled papers including a few Gourdes (Haitian money) that she had collected when our Tap Tap was running.
Madame is a portly lady with a smile that lights up a room. You always hear her voice bellowing when you enter her home as she is the matriarch of the clan that resides with her. I chuckled when she showed me how she intended to grab her “sachet” and run into the street to flee from the giant wave. Madame nearly cried when I provided her with a more durable sachet upon my departure from Haiti. Her tears quickly turned to laughter as I imitated her demonstration of her departure into the street.
Fear is part of daily life in Haiti. Most Haitians cope with the unknown with a profound faith in God’s protection and love. Many Haitians are sustained by the powers of the ancient African traditions of voodoo. My heart always questions how these sweet souls can sustain their strength with hope amidst the challenges that face them minute by minute every day of their lives. Somehow, when the sun rises in the sky, Haitians rise from their slumber to face the next challenge with dignity and grace.

Observations from Haiti

Greetings and Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

I have continued my transition back into life in America including my return to work and a routine that includes daily exercise and modern convenience. Every time I return from Haiti, I am changed. It is a phenomenon that is difficult to describe, but my soul clings to the lessons I have learned from my experiences.

This week I have been listening to the dialogues of friends, family, co-workers, patients and strangers. I find myself drifting into thought as I enjoy the conveniences of living in the “first world”. While we Americans move about challenged in our own way, it seems as though we could learn many lessons from our fellow Haitians. I made a point during my recent trip to observe Haitian women. Women walk miles from their country village with a huge vessel on their head filled with local crops or sweets to sell on the streets. These women are poised as they gracefully maneuver the terrain of fallen roads. I have never seen a Haitian woman drop this load from her head. They have mastered the idea of what we physical therapists call “core strength” and “balance”. I have helped lift the load these women carry and I would guess it could be as much as 40 pounds…lifted from the ground to the top of their head and within seconds she is walking down the road calling out what items she has for sale.

I watched the women prepare food in a room with a dirt floor. Charcoal is placed in a small metal container and set on fire. Pans of various configurations are used. These women cook together for hours to create flavorful food. The process to prepare food for our anniversary celebration began at about 4 am with a trip to the market guided by kerosene lanterns. The sun came up and beat down on them as the kitchen area has no roof. The women use a small bucket tied to a rope to pull water up from the well. There was no electric or gas stoves or a sink with disposal. There was not refrigerator to keep things cool or stored-only small areas of shade are reserved for their cooling effect. There was an old wooden table used for cutting up food. An amazing spread of chicken, rice and beans, three or four salads, macaroni au gratin and popcorn were served at about 7:30 pm.

At any point in the day there were about 13 women and girls who participated in this process. They laughed and chatted and embraced one another throughout the day. The matriarch we call Madame barked out orders while the younger women and girls all diligently completed their assigned tasks. The women didn’t seem to feel bothered by the immensity of their task. They gathered together with a sense of community grateful to have the food that Robert and I provided to create food to be shared by family and friends.

The gathering for the meal began with singing and prayer. A toast was made to Robert and I by Madame’s son wishing us 500 years of happiness together. Robert and I were given the first china plates piled with food. Everyone else had plastic plates with modest servings.

Today I stand in my modern kitchen with a beautifully tiled floor, gas stove and oven, microwave, refrigerator and running water for my every whim and my mind travels back to Haiti. I stand in awe of all my Haitian sisters. Their simplicity and community offers me lessons for reflection.

Until next time, may you remember to celebrate the gifts that surround you each and every day.

Charlotte

Re-entry

I returned from Haiti yesterday. Robert will remain for four more weeks. My return home was fairly typical-I got a cold the day before I left, so I was feeling a bit under the weather. The Haitians had moved my name to an earlier flight but didn’t bother to tell me, so there was lots of confusion. We always call to confirm our flight our but the lines had been busy for 2 days prior so there was no getting confirmation. Fortunately, I arrived two hours before my previously scheduled departure so I was able to negotiate my return.

The airport in Cap Haitien has improved with a functioning, relatively clean toilet but lacks creature comforts of modern airports, so it was a pretty miserable 5 hours of waiting and wondering. You are never given any information about the status of your flight. Passports are checked no less than a dozen times as the airlines are fined thousands of dollars for delivering passengers from Haiti with false passports. Haitians grow anxious and weary with the process. Sad but true, white Americans are given preferential treatment at the airport, so I was confident I would get out eventually. I found out from the flight crew that the plane was delayed as it was diverted to pick up people in Guantanamo Bay.

I arrived in Ft. Lauderdale to the comforts of an American hotel. All I could think about was eating a green salad. I ordered a Cobb salad from a local restaurant and had it delivered to my room by a young Haitian man (yes, I did say a young Haitian man). It seems the universe is aware of transition. I savored this ginormous salad with cool crisp lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, chicken, and flavorful crumbles of blue cheese. I have never appreciated the crispness of a fresh mushroom like I did that evening.

I awakened early the next morning, exhausted and trekked to the airport. I reflected upon my last return trip from Haiti, where I was so sick, I thought I might die…that was the longest journey of my life. This time a runny nose and headache seemed so cliché. I arrived home to find our house in tact only in need of a little yard work. The car battery was dead, but I had AAA to rescue me. I went to the post office to pick up the mail and there was only a line of three people standing in an orderly fashion.

I walked around the neighborhood and enjoyed the local early signs of spring. Re-entry into this life is always a process. The hundreds of emails, piles of mail, dozens of phone calls and laundry can only be dealt with in piecemeal . There is a paralysis that lacks words for description. My senses are keen for nature. My heart is torn between gratitude for the exquisite shelter that I call home and the guilt I feel for acquisition and gluttony. My stomach takes in little nourishment as I am mindful of those I have left behind.

Haiti is country that feeds my soul and breaks my heart. I will continue to blog over the next few days and weeks with the remainder of our experiences, observations and photos as we had limited opportunity for internet access in Haiti. I will also provide you with updates as I receive them from my beloved Robert. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers as he continues his journey in Haiti.

Love and hugs,
Charlotte

Ampil Lapil

It is raining a lot!

We haven't gotten an update on the conditions in Port-au-Prince, but imagine that it is terrible for the people living in the streets.

Wednesday, March 3 was our fifth wedding anniversary. We went the Batey where Robert has the house by the sea. This area is impoverished. Shelters are often made of corrugated cardboard and perhaps a tin roof if they are lucky. The floors are dirt (actually mud during the rainy season). When we enter the Batey, it is as if the pied piper has arrived. Robert carries his boom box blasting music and he is accompanied by a "Blah" (white person). I often describe myself as a Q-tip walking the streets in Haiti. We purchased small packages of cookies to give the kids. Unfortunately, the distribution turned into a fight. Small children with hungry bellies anxious to receive a treat. My heart breaks to see such poverty and feel so helpless.

We also found another orphanage constructed and run by some adults that grew up in Haiti as orphans. All of the orphanages in the northern part of Haiti have been affected by the earthquake in Port-au-Prince as many of the orphans have been moved here. We made a donation to support the amazing effort of these orphans trying to make a difference in their country.

We gave money to our family so that we could have a party to celebrate our anniversary. The women cooked all day to prepare a delicious feast. The cook on charcoal in an open area they use for cooking, washing the clothes, bathing and various other activities. All of the family put on their "Sunday best" and celebrated our 5th anniversary with us. The best part was that we were able to feed about 50 people with a lot of nutritious food for less than $100 US. We had music to dance, toasts to champagne and lots of fun.

Thursday, we decided to head to the Dominican Republic. We traveled via Tap Tap (21 people crammed in a 12 passenger van, motorcycle (Charlotte sandwiched between the driver and Robert), taxi (7 people in a Honda Civic) and guagua (24 people luggage in a 16 passenger van) from Cap Haitian to Sosua. Sosua is the place where Robert and I met 13 years ago. There are many Haitians here who have come to make a better life. The Dominican Republic is a very poor country, but there are many signs of economic growth and increased opportunity for improved life here. Perhaps it is all an illusion creating a bigger gap between those that are rich and those that are poor. Robert lived here for over 10 years and is still known by many. Several of his friends have passed away. As we walk the streets, everyone asks for food, so we changed some money into Dominican pesos to give out to our Haitian friends struggling here.

We will spend a couple of days here and then return to Cap Haitien for a few days before I will return to the US. Upon our return to Haiti, we are going to serve a meal in the Batey by the sea to all of the children living there.

Please send positive energy and prayer for the Haitians in Port-au-Prince living in the street. The rains are heavy here now. Those people need shelter.

It's raining

Hello,

On Tuesday, we traveled to an area outside of Milot where Robert's papa and aunt live. We visit our garden where we found Papa (81 years old) toiling away in the hot sun. Robert was greeted by everyone within a mile. All so happy to see him and eager for any gifts that may be presented. We spent most of the day here and we chose to hand out the cards made by Aleesha and Hunter with some money to the children. Everyone was so excited that children in America were thinking of them. The conditions of living are really beyond words. Our family is always so excited to see us.

We traveled from Cap Haitien via TapTap (a small truck that carries about 8-12 people with an assundry of supplies on top of the roof. We had picked up 2 sacks of 125 pounds of rice and oil for our family. They were very excited to receive the gifts of food. It was extremely hot but they make every accomodation to make us comfortable in the shade.

We visited our garden and ate oranges off of the tree. They were sweet, fragrant and refreshing. We also visited some other land behind Papa's house filled with sugar cane (behind a distillery that makes clarin-a potent Haitien alcoholic beverage).

After our visit, we went to see the house by the sea which is actually in the sea. Robert had a strong foundation built to support this structure. The neighbor did not and their house was washed away by the waves. The house has sustained some damage from the ocean waves, so no one is currently living there.

During my travels to Haiti, I always become overwhelmed by the stimulation. Mind you, the stimulation is very different here. The road to travel is like four-wheeling. People are swarming everywhere. It is blazing hot and humid. The poverty is palpable. The daily struggle is only about one thing...survival. Our evening discussions are often about the wonderment of survival these souls endure.

We are on a limited connection, so I will fill you in on the other days and events when we can access a computer again. Thank you for continuing to keep us in thoughts and prayers. We walk this land with humble hearts.

Godspeed,
Charlotte and Robert

Arrived in Haiti

Robert and i arrived in Cap Haitien late Sunday afternoon. Our plane was delayed out of Ft. Lauderdale because the airline is having difficulty obtaining fuel. One of our bags didn't make it with us, so we will have to try to track that down (always an adventure). Chi Chi met us at the airport. Other than looking very thin, he seems healthy and certainly happy to see us arrive in Haiti. Robert looked at several hotels which have declined in their cleanliness. It also seems that numerous people have moved to this city from Port au Prince because of the lack of sustainable living in PAP. We ended up coming to a beautiful hotel called Hotel Residencial which is owned by Robert's cousins. The are building a beautiful hotel on a mountain and we are happy to support their endeavors.

Madame generously allowed us to stay at her home last night and she has been preparing delicious Haitian cuisine to nourish our bodies.

The roads are terrible...I think the worst we have experienced in a long long time. We ventured to Robert's birthplace today, Grande Riviere du Nord. By asking many people, we discovered that one of his mother's sisters had passed away. By the grace of God and Goddess, we found one if his aunts. Her name is Wilite Celestin. She is blind and a bit confused, but after some coaxing, she realized that the son of her sister Cecile had come to see her. She lives in a less than humble structure and the neighbors provide food for her when they are able to share. We purchased enough food for her to be able to eat for about 6 months. She was so grateful as she sang to her Jesus and her deceased sister.

As we ventured back toward Cap Haitien, we stopped at Orphelina de Petite-Anse (an orphanage). We spent some time speaking with the director. He told us that they have about 64 children that they care for in meager surroundings. Once the children become 18,they are moved to a different location where they are still supported, but they learn life skills to eventually take care of themselves. Additionally, we were told that they have taken some children from Port-au-Prince and that they have about 3 to 5 requests to take additional children everyday. We made a donation to help this orphanage provide food and school for these kids.

We made a brief stop to visit our granddaughter Rose Berline Laneau. Oh she is a cutie pie and most certainly stole the heart of her grandfather. We gave her mama some money to buy milk and we will make a huge delivery of clothing later this week.

Our next stop was at another relative's family. They are struggling to make ends meet and have helped with our Tap Tap in the past, so we left them with some rice, oil, manteca, tomato sauce so they can feed their family for about one month.

Finally, as we were walking back to Madame's when we met some young hungry boys, so Robert gave them each some money to get something to eat. They kissed the money and sang "Merci Jesus".

Robert and I feel honored to be able to help people living a life of struggle. The gratitude extends to all ends of the universe...a Haitian tradition of giving with your left hand allows you to receive abundantly with your right hand. All of our family and friends in the USA will hopefully feel the light that we have surrounding us.

We will continue to try to make a post when we are able to access the internet. Photos will be posted later. Na we pita.

L'union fait la force

Today as I was preparing for to leave work, my colleague presented me with a gift from her children Aleesha and Hunter. I sit tonight in awe as I gently tuck their gifts into our bags as we prepare to depart for Haiti. Aleesha and Hunter created sixteen colorful greeting cards to present to the children of Haiti along with money to help their peers. The greetings carry words and symbols of hope for their Haitian friends. We are inspired by the generosity and wisdom Aleesha and Hunter display in recognizing a world beyond their own. Robert and I thank you with the deepest gratitude. We will deliver your gifts of hope with joyful hearts.

Thank you to all of our friends and family. We have been deeply touched by all of your warm thoughts, prayers of hope and generosity toward our Haitian family and friends.

L’union fait la force!
(Together we are Strong!)

Our bags are packed

Greetings from Sacramento!

Our bags are packed. We are wrapping up the few loose ends required to leave to go to Haiti. Our dear friend Mary will transport us to the airport at 4:30 am on Saturday. One way to measure friendship is to see who is crazy enough to transport you during the hours when we should all be asleep.

Robert wrapped up his employment at Safeway this week. I am working long hours at UC Davis in preparation to depart for 2 weeks. I am grateful for the team that steps up to allow me to go on these adventures.

We will travel for one day and a half to reach our destination-Cap Haitien, Haiti. Chi Chi will meet us at the airport. He is feeling better with the antibiotics…thank goodness.

Thank you to every one for your warm thoughts and hopeful prayers. Please continue to hold us in your thoughts and prayers as we embrace our family and friends in Haiti.

We will try to blog a few times while in Haiti. You can type the address in your browser: http://haiti-norton-laneau.blogspot.com

Godspeed,
Charlotte and Robert

Haiti News from San Diego

Hello,

I apologize for the delay in my writing. Life is full of opportunities.
There is a significant amount of energy expended as we prepare for our upcoming trip to Haiti.

Robert and I continue to follow the events surrounding Haiti. Last week there was school that collapsed in Cap Haitien. Reports from Haitians were “another frightening earthquake”, but in fact the recent rains caused a landslide. The school was demolished and three children died.

On January 29, 2010, Paul Farmer, MD and others testified before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee regarding the situation in Haiti. He supported the debt relief initiative for Haiti which appears to have moved into the international political scene with support of the US Treasury. Dr. Farmer clearly understands the need for assistance in sustainable ways for the people of Haiti.

Another interesting story is that of “Crisis Camps” that have popped up all over the world. Individuals with knowledge and experience in the area of informational technology are gathering to create opportunities to help Haiti advance technologically as part of its rebuilding.

National Public Radio aired a story recently about a gentleman who went to Port au Prince and posed as a person wishing the services of a Restavek. The Haitian who was making the deal offered the child into servitude for $100 US. The American involved in the deal offered $50 US for a 12 year old girl that could provide service in the way of cleaning and cooking in addition to sexual relations. This story represents the tragic possibilities of trafficking in Haiti.

I am at a physical therapy meeting in San Diego. Today I spent a considerable amount of the day listening to ideas about building sustainability into local and global initiatives. There was a significant focus placed on organizations (mostly NGOs) that are currently working on the ground in Haiti. I am encouraged by the efforts put forth by many of my physical therapy colleagues who are committed to the call for help..

Chi Chi hasn’t been feeling well for several days. He was finally able to see a doctor and received the diagnosis of Typhoid Fever. Obviously, this weighs heavy on our hearts as our concern for Chi Chi’s health and safety grows. We are continuing to work with our Congressional leaders regarding his visa application.

The stories continue to traverse the spectrum of horrific to hopeful. The novelty of the Haitian earthquake has left the every day consciousness of many. Robert and I seek out daily information as telecommunications continues to be challenging. I return to Sacramento late Saturday night. It will be a crazy week as we pack our bags and prepare for our adventure. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers for safe travels.

Always,
Charlotte and Robert

Debt relief and sustainablity

The challenges in Haiti continue. Last night I participated in a conference call sponsored by ONE.org. Speakers on the call included Former Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist who went to Haiti to perform badly needed surgeries. He traveled with Samaritan’s Purse (a faith based organization that helps around the world in times of need). Other participants included Representative Gregory Meeks of NY, Dr. Joia Mukherjee, Medical Director from Partners in Health, and David Melter of the American Red Cross.

The call began with each of the speakers providing a 5 minute summary of their role in the disaster/relief effort in Haiti. There was also a discussion about debt relief for the Haitian government which would allow the funds that are pouring into Haiti to be used for rebuilding the country. Towards the end of the call, several callers were able to ask questions about the relief efforts in Haiti.

Each of the speakers offered an interesting perspective. Dr. Mukherjee from Partners in Health, however, was articulate, accurate and honest about the struggles of the Haitian people. She profoundly stated “Haiti is not a poor country, Haiti is an impoverished country.” She discussed the economic isolation that Haiti has experienced over the years including the US aid embargo imposed between 2000 and 2004. She encouraged the listeners to realize that solutions for Haiti need to come from the Haitian people.

She spoke of the success of Partners in Health spearheaded by Paul Farmer, MD. All of the permanent employees of Partners in Health in the central plateau are Haitian. Partners in Health has worked for years to enable to public sector involvement and organize/mobilize participatory members of Haitian society. Because of this amazing work, PIH was able to establish 20 operating rooms in and around Port au Prince within three days of the earthquake. This effort was successful because of the partnerships that have been forged within the community of Haiti.

There is a great deal of discussion about rebuilding a sustainable Haiti. Hopefully, we have learned from past efforts to re-forest Haiti. The forgotten piece was that Haitians use charcoal as their primary source of fuel. The re-forestation effort lacked sustainability as alternative fuel sources and education were neglected. If a person is in survival mode and they need charcoal, they will harvest trees.

Partners in Health has been successful because of its efforts to enable the Haitian government and mobilize the people of the central plateau to create a sustainable solution for treating TB, malaria and AIDS. Hopefully, more organizations will follow suit. Think of it, the prime growing season begins in about two months. What if organizations provided the farmers in the countryside with seed, fertilizer, and knowledge about irrigation to enable Haitians to help develop an economy and feed hungry Haitians.

And so, today I urge those of you that are politically inclined to contact your representatives and encourage the work of Maxine Waters and Gregory Meeks for the treasury to cancel Haiti’s debt. When sharing your generosity in dollars or service to help Haiti, please remember to look for organizations that have missions of sustainability. This is the hope for Haiti.

Nawe,
Charlotte and Robert

The call of Hope

This morning around 4:15, the phone rang. Thankfully, the voice on the other end of the line was our son Jean Ronel (aka Chi Chi). We had heard reports that he was alive and well, but there is nothing like hearing the voice of a loved one. Thankfully, he is doing okay.

We initially applied for a visa for Jean Ronel in April, 2008. We have been moving through the familiar bureaucracy of the USCIS since the time of application. In light of the recent situation, we have enlisted the assistance of our Congresswoman Doris Matsui to help us navigate the system. Please keep the positive thoughts and prayers flowing for an expeditious process.

I have been following updates on the What if Foundation. You can find the website at www.whatiffoundation.org Margaret Trost published her amazing story in a book called “On That Day Everybody Ate.” She describes her remarkable journey of hope, faith and determination in developing a community based program to feed the children of Port-au-Prince. The website reports updates about the devastation in Haiti and the efforts made by the community of St. Claire to continue to feed those during this challenging time in Haiti.

We want to extend another heart felt thank you to everyone who has acknowledged the plight of Haiti. Our hearts are filled with gratitude. Your loving and compassionate support has provided us with hope in humanity. The journey ahead will be long. Robert and I are hopeful that we can have a positive impact as the people of Haiti stand up, dust off their bodies, refuel their bellies and move forward with faith and hope for their future.

In the light,
Charlotte and Robert

6.1 shakes Haiti

4:03 am High speed winds rip through Sacramento. Rain is pouring out of the sky. I am in bed comfortably wrapped in my beloved Robert’s arms under the warmth of covers sheltered by the 120 year old walls and roof of our home, affectionately called Spirit Mountain. The telephone rings and I wake Robert to answer the call. On the other end of the line is our sister Herline. I breathe a sigh of relief as I listen intently to the exchange in Creole, gleaning the gist of the conversation. The call is brief as she doesn’t have much time on the calling card. Robert hangs up the phone and reports that Haiti has been rocked by another 6.0 magnitude earthquake. The shaking of the earth was felt by those in Cap Haitien. Herline ended the conversation expressing fearful concern, grounded by her faith in God.

Robert and I move out of the warmth of our cocoon to turn on the television in the living room. Our stomachs churn as we expect the worst. Thankfully, Anderson Cooper is reporting not much new damage with the latest 6.1 aftershock. The epicenter of this quake was reportedly northwest of PAP. Mr. Cooper continues his plea for help in Haiti. The images behind him are of people frantically running around PAP. Citizens of the world are donating generously from their wallets and sending compassionate wishes from their hearts. Where is the help? Organizations like Doctors without Borders struggling to get medical assistance into Haiti with their planes being diverted to the Dominican Republic. Then they have to traverse the roads to get into Haiti; a challenging task in the best of times. We understand the challenging logistics presented by this disaster. We are comforted when we receive a trickle of information that our family and friends are alive. I complain of the difficulty as the days drag with our feelings of helplessness. Robert replies, “Sweetie, only God knows”.

Always,
Charlotte and Robert

Hope in the children

We all need a little piece of hope. Kelly, one of my fellow physical therapists, walked into my office and blessed me with a delightful envelope today. The carefully packaged envelope was decorated with the names of her daughters Kelsey, Dale, Grace and many of their friends who gathered together to eat pizza last night and raise money for Haiti. The back of the envelope said “We raised $158.00 and 40¢”. I could hardly wait to bring the envelope home to show Robert. He was so grateful to receive $58 to help the people of Haiti, but when I told him that it was $158 his eyes grew big and he said “and 40¢…from kids…amazing!” The children of Haiti are blessed to have such heartfelt advocacy in their American friends. Thank you, thank you, and thank you to all who contributed.

Two phone calls came through on Robert’s cell phone with Haiti’s country code 509, but there are no voices on the end of the line. We still cannot get through and reach our family in Haiti. We maintain hopeful hearts and pray for the safety of our family with each passing minute.

There has been concern expressed by John Robert Cadet about the restaveks in Haiti. For those of you who are unfamiliar with this term, it comes from French reste avec that means “one who stays with”. Haiti has a long history of moving its children into servitude. Poor families often send their children to live with other families in hopes of opportunity for schooling and a better life. Unfortunately, many of these young boys and girls become slaves and never have the opportunity to go to school or to have a better life. They often sleep on dirt floors and eat scraps of food that remain after a family has eaten. Many times they are physically and emotionally abused.

Mr. Cadet escaped his life as a restavek. He had an opportunity for education in the U.S. He has dedicated his life to his foundation based in the US and Port au Prince to offer restavek children an opportunity for a better life with education and food. Fortunately, the headquarters in Haiti was spared significant damage in the earthquake, but many of the restavek children that this organization supports are missing. You can read more about his foundation at www.restavekfreedom.org

Zanmi ou yo (your friends),
Charlotte and Robert

Holding out with hope

Rain is falling from the skies of Sacramento on this day to honor the late Martin Luther King, Jr.

We have not been able to make additional contact with our family in Haiti. The phone lines continue to be down in the entire country. Our family has very limited ability to access a computer so that option is not available to us. Robert and I continue to have faith in something greater than this tragedy. We are trying to move through our daily life with hopeful hearts. We shed tears daily, but we are grateful to have each other as support other during this extremely difficult time.

While some are avoiding the news, we hold on to that as the only connection with our Haitian family and friends. Occasionally, we see a familiar face on the television and celebrate life. We hold onto the hope-filled stories of rescue and aid reaching those in need.

Understandably, tensions are growing in Port-au-Prince. Our Haitian brothers and sisters are thirsty and hungry clinging to precious life. I am always amazed by the echoes of patience expressed by my husband who has been tested so many times before. His empathy for those who are hungry and thirsty stems from a genuine understanding of what it means to have a dry mouth and pangs of hunger in your belly. I am humbled with every bit of food or drink that I have available to me.

The ILAC program which afforded me the opportunity to volunteer in the Dominican Republic and become connected with Haiti is sending supplies, water filters and actively setting up triage centers with surgeons and healthcare professionals along the border. Partners in Health and Doctors without Borders are actively trying to get medical care to those in need.

As news of the Haitian struggle begins to fade, I have been encouraged to continue communicating through our upcoming trip to Haiti. I will do my best to honor my Haitian family in this regard. Our blog address: http://haiti-norton-laneau.blogspot.com
For those of you, like me, who are technologically challenged I will continue to send emails. Please feel free to let me know if you don’t wish to receive these emails any longer and I will remove your address from the list.

One of my professors from when I attended physical therapy school retired and now has a business with Mary Kay. She sent the following message and attached flyers for those of you who may purchase these types of products. Thank you Dr. Knutson for helping Haiti.

“I’m attaching the flyer in the event you want to share it with others you know and build the contributions resulting. I can do even more than the flyer states and include this on all products of $10 or more now through the end of January. Those who order could do so at my website http://www.marykay.com/LKnutson . They can use secure online payment and should enter “Charlotte and Robert” on the comment line. I ship free for orders over $40 but if they want to pay shipping I will contribute that additional amount to Red Cross.”

Thank you to everyone who is sending positive energy and powerful prayers to Haiti. We appreciate all that you do!

Always,
Charlotte & Robert

Limited contact

We were finally able to make contact with a family member in the northern part of Haiti to confirm that our son Jean Ronel (aka Chi Chi) is safe and that Cap Haitian survived the earthquake with only minor damage. We feel a sense of gratitude and relief that our family in the northern part of Haiti are alive and out of immediate harm. Our relief is shallow as we understand the reality of dependence on the limited infrastructure of PAP.

We were also able to make contact with a cousin who is making her way from PAP to Cap Haitian. She described a horrific scene in PAP of stepping over the dead bodies that lined the street and the smell of death.

We have had limited email contact with a physician that we are familiar with in Port au Prince. He describes PAP as demolished and destructed. He says the needs are so great that it is overwhelming.

We are connected with our other Haitian family members and friends throughout the USA. Our hearts are comforted when we hear that contact has been made with family and friends in Haiti. We feel extreme sadness when we hear stories of loss and death.

The scenes on our television are disturbing. We continue to shed tears for our Haitian brother and sisters. Our feelings of helplessness appear to be echoed by those on the ground in Haiti awaiting assistance from the apparently collapsed government and the wealth of international support trickling in. The historical frustration of the lack of Haitian governmental leadership is painted very clearly with the paralyzed expressions of President Preval as he describes the situation in Haiti.

My faith in a higher power is challenged while I question what benevolent God or Goddess would put any souls on this earth through the struggles that I have observed in Haiti before January 12, 2010. My faith is challenged more now during the horrific aftermath of a natural disaster.

I hear the frustration in Robert’s voice as he communicates with Haitian family and friends. I see the tears in his eyes when there are stories about the orphaned children of Haiti on the television. The television flashes “Breaking News” and Robert says, “Breaking Hearts”. And yet, I sense his strength as he talks about hope for the future of Haiti. That strength is echoed as I watch reports of Haitians gathered in the streets at night singing hymns and praying in the darkness of misery. Haitians tirelessly pick up pieces of rubble by hand because they hear a voice screaming for help. Often they risk their own life to try to help their family or neighbor because the screams are becoming weaker and time is running out.

Haiti is a country with a history of struggle and resilience. Our prayers continue for water, medical care, sustenance and shelter for our Haitian brothers and sisters. Thank you for your continued thoughts, prayers and support for the people of Haiti. The world is trying to surround Haiti with hope. May Haitians walking this earth feel the strength of that energy. May the souls of those that have moved on from the hell on earth in Haiti right now have a sense of peace and comfort.

Godspeed,

Charlotte and Robert

Communication challenges

We are still not able to make contact into Haiti. We are hopeful that we will be able to make contact soon as there are reports of possible communication repairs soon. It is very difficult to watch and listen to the tragedy that continues to unfold in Haiti. We are grateful for the help that is moving in and hope that the obstacles can be minimized to get help to our brothers and sisters in need. Thanks to all of you have that have extended your voices of concern...it brings great comfort to us.

I stood in front of the sink this morning to wash the dishes and I was reminded of the things that I take for granted every day...running clean water, a refrigerator filled with nutrition for my belly, clean clothes, shelter. Once again my life changing experiences in the Dominican Republic and Haiti keep me humble and grateful. Robert is doing as well as can be expected, yearning to know that his family and friends are okay. He always amazes me with his perspective and the wisdom that life has given him.

May we not forget Haiti as the days roll on. This tragedy will have long standing effects in our beloved Haiti.

Nawe pita,

Charlotte and Robert

Donations for the Haiti Earthquake

Once again, Robert and I are overwhelmed by the thoughts and prayers sent by you for our Haitian Family.

We continue to be unable to reach any of our family as there are telephone lines appear to be down throughout the country. From the reports we have gathered from the news, the internet and family and friends throughout the USA, we have been able to confirm that three close cousins and their families had homes that were completely destroyed. They are trying to get to another family member’s home in hopes that they can stay there for a while.

We haven't been able to contact any of our family including our son Jean Ronel, our sister Herline, or our papa in northern Haiti. Reports indicate that they were not directly impacted by the earthquake however the entire infrastructure is based in PAP so there will be long term ramifications.

Many of you have asked about making donations. We have made donations to five organizations that we feel are legitimate with the best opportunity to get the money into Haiti to help the people. They are listed below.

whatiffoundation.org provides food for hungry children in PAP

www.pih.org provides medical assistance to people (especially with HIV, malaria and TB)

www.yele.org Wyclef Jean's foundation that will directly support affected Haitians

www.clintonfoundation.org/haitirelief organizing direct relief

www.doctorswithoutborders.org organizing medical relief

We will be heading to Haiti the end of February. Our luggage limitation will be limited, but if anyone feels compelled to send money directly, we will be happy to make certain that the money is used to directly help Haitians in need. Of course, you wouldn't be able use this as a tax deduction.

We will continue to keep you updated as we are able. Thank you, thank you, thank you for your thoughts, prayer and gestures of hope. We hold on to those things in this very challenging time.

Bon kourage kimbe fem pa lage (Have good courage and never give up),
Robert and Charlotte

7.0 in Haiti

Robert and I wanted to thank everyone for their thoughts, phone calls, emails and prayers for our Haitian family. Unfortunately, we are unable to reach anyone in Haiti at this time.

We are heading to Haiti the end of February.

Please continue to keep the people of Haiti close to your hearts and in your prayers during this very difficult time.

Godspeed,
Charlotte and Robert