By Dr James Morgan, Founder
This fundamental concept is a key to successful family life, work, friendships, community. In a very real sense, relationships embody dialogue. Of course any meaningful conversation requires active listening. Paying attention to body language, as well as verbiage. (As I write this I rejoice in my own children’s exodus from their teen years!)
Understanding these relationships is a vital and ongoing process for us at Lamp this year as we continue to grow and to fulfill our mission of working with and for the people of Haiti to improve the lives of some of the most marginalized persons there.
At Lamp for Haiti, we are continually trying to improve that dialogue, and we are seeing positive results. For example, we are delighted to announce this past quarter we have added two new key personnel — Dr Sévere and Mr Dénold Joseph. Their clinical skills and personal demeanor allow us to provide quality, cost effective care.
A training workshop on the electronic medical records system (Nick Sahagian standing)
Dr Severe at the clinic, May 2014
Partnering with other organizations, filling in gaps when they exist, sharing resources — these are all continuations of the theme of dialogue. Presently we have working relationships with several other major organizations working in Haiti, including groups like AmeriCares, Partners in Health (PIH), and the St Luke’s Foundation in Tabarre. Boston native Nick Sahagian is a volunteer intern who has jumped in with both feet to assist us in launching our electronic records system (see www.OpenMRS.org for more on this fascinating PIH project). Midwives for Haiti is assisting us in our Women’s Health Program. SAKALA, a community based organization in Cité Soleil focused on youth, was begun by Lamp Board Member Daniel Tillias. We move ahead to strengthen our official relationship with the Haitian Ministry of Health.
And so as we move into summer, let’s take a moment to ponder our own relationships with one another, and with our friends and colleagues in Haiti. Let’s think about the genuine solidarity that Lamp for Haiti represents, manifest by the ongoing effort to strengthen and focus that conversation. It is a conversation not always comprised of words, but deeply engaged in listening and in action. Let’s remember the work that lies ahead and see it as another challenge, somewhat daunting, but never insurmountable.
My very best to you and to your families this summer. And of course thank you again for all your many kindnesses and financial support.
