Patricia Eaton, DO: MMC Pediatrics PGY3

Haiti: April 2014

 It is now a month after the return of our week-long trip to Haiti. Although I've returned to work and the life I was living before, the images of each moment I experienced still flash through my mind quite frequently. I remember their faces - their smiles, their wonder, their gratitude. I remember their homes, their lifestyle, the simplicity. I wonder how they are today. There were a few children I really worry about. I hope that the medications and instructions we provided were able to save their lives and that they are healthy today. One young boy I cared for was sick with pneumonia. He came back to us 3 days in a row so that I could see him each day and give him more medication. I caught a glimpse of his father on the day we left and he smiled, told me the boy was doing much better, and thanked me. But I worry about the ones I didn't get to see again. Are they better? Worse? Here in New Jersey, every single patient encounter is concluded with "if you have questions or concerns, just call us or come back at any time." This was the luxury I missed the most. So I just keep wondering if they are okay. Hands Up for Haiti is one of the most incredible organizations I have ever worked with. They are genuinely providing quality care to people in great need. They strive to provide sustainable care through improving healthcare centers and establishing follow-up programs. I would be honored to work with them in the future and am privileged to have had this opportunity.

 "You can leave Haiti, but Haiti will never leave you."