At Hôpital Sacré Coeur, evidence of successful healthcare delivery that you helped us build is everywhere. The 125 beds are full, the outpatient clinics overflow with hundreds of patients needing attention, and the new emergency room provides critical medical interventions each and every day.
The people of the region stream to Hôpital Sacré Coeur because they trust the quality of care we provide. They are filled with the hope that their physical maladies and anxious fears will be attended to by the hospital’s competent staff. Such hope and trust in an institution does not come quickly or easily in Haiti. It grows from persistent, earnest efforts and sincere long term commitment.
A week ago I flew back from Haiti to New Jersey, trading one hot and humid environment for another. That is where the similarities between Haiti and U.S. summers end. Here, summer brings an overall sense of relaxation, the pursuit of pleasurable outdoor pastimes and brighter, more carefree moods.
That is why I am asking you to share some of your resources with Hôpital Sacré Coeur. I know without doubt this well-run medical facility means the difference between life and death for thousands who come to us with hope and trust, particularly during the summer months. That’s why I’ve committed to personally give $10,000 each year to The CRUDEM Foundation and I invite you to give whatever amount is within your means. All donations are greatly appreciated.
Here’s why your summertime support is sorely needed:
• The dramatic weakening of the Haitian gourde against the dollar has left soaring food prices in its wake. More and more families face severe food shortages leaving more children malnourished and adults weakened and less able to fight off infections and disease. When the breadwinner falls ill: families will suffer.
• Tropical summer rainfalls drastically increase the number of mosquitoes and their debilitating and often deadly array of viral and parasitic diseases: malaria, dengue fever, chikungunya and lymphatic filariasis – to name just a few.
• Rainy season is now cholera season as the waters let loose often deadly cholera. The lack of fresh water for drinking and cleaning becomes particularly life threatening during the summer.
• Oppressive heat and humidity (temperatures near and over 100 degrees coupled with 96% or more humidity) exacerbate cardiac and respiratory problems. More cases of severe dehydration and related critical conditions fill the hospital. Infants are particularly vulnerable. Patients already struggling with compromised health require additional medical attention.
Here is what your donation will provide:
• Medication and supplies to treat cholera and mosquito borne viruses like chikungunya, dengue fever and malaria.
• Medical care for those severely affected by the oppressive heat and humidity.
• Critically needed treatment for infants and children compromised by food shortages and lack of proper nutrition and safe, clean water.
• Support of Sr. Ann’s preventative health outreach program to bring food to the most vulnerable.
I have seen what a meaningful impact your and my dollars make. The positive, tangible difference in the lives of others, particularly women and children, is obvious and significant.
Whatever your summer plans, I hope you will add making a real difference and having significant impact in Northern Haiti to your list. Remember:
It’s no exaggeration to say, “Your donation dollars have the power to heal.”
Gratefully Yours,
David G. Butler, M.D.
Chairman
P.S. The doors never close on Hôpital Sacré Coeur. The patients continue to come in search of quality healthcare. Those doors stay open only with your generous support. Please send your tax deductible donation by Labor Day – Sept. 7th. Remember: 100% of your donation goes directly to patient care programs.
