Dear Supporters:
I am so grateful for this opportunity to tell you about all the wonderful works being done in Milot and the tremendous spirit of hope among the people we serve. Despite the most dreadful poverty and horrific challenges faced daily, evidence of improved living conditions and the possibilities for an improved future are everywhere.
For the first time in my years here, the people are confident we will not abandon them. They are confident there will continue to be support for Hôpital Sacré Coeur, the sole provider of healthcare in the region and the largest most important economic engine for the community.
Sr. Ann and CRUDEM President Mike Maron visit with local Milot woman.
You certainly give us great hope as together we live the Gospel message to feed the hungry, house the homeless and heal the sick. We are blessed to have your help and I assure you the people of Haiti are sincerely grateful for your constant generosity and support.
The hospital has grown considerably over the past few years and I know we have great plans for the future. The needs in Haiti are never ending; as our reputation and success grows so does our responsibility to do more for the increasing numbers who seek our care and our support. Those seeking food, shelter and an opportunity to educate their children have increased as well, with every mouth fed and every home built.
Hope is winning over despair. The spirit of the people is vibrant and positive, despite the harsh conditions and challenges poverty has inflicted on them. We have ignited a fuel in the hearts of our Haitian brothers and sisters, one that has sparked the dream for a better life. Visibly seeing this love strengthens my soul and makes me want to reach for more.
I have chosen to live my life not as a bystander, but rather to live in this world, in Haiti, as an active participant in fulfilling this dream. We all want our lives to matter and for the world to be marked in some small way by our journey. Haiti has taught me in order to succeed on this journey we need each other. We cannot do it alone.
CRUDEM President Mike Maron has often spoken to me about Mother Theresa being a source of inspiration for him. Especially this one quote:
Please, as ordinary people hear our call, and help us answer in extraordinary ways. I know God will bless you for it.
Your faith will replace doubt; your selfless service will eliminate selfish striving, and the power of God will bring to pass God’s purpose for all of us.
A generous heart, respect for others and a life of service and compassion are the things which God asks of us. You are in my prayers and I send this Irish blessing to each and all:
May you have warm words on a cold evening, a full moon on a dark night, and the road downhill all the way to your door.
May God Bless you and reward each one of you.
With love,
—Sister Ann Crawley, C.S.J.P.
