A thought...

..I have often struggled with the feeling that I am not making a big enough difference in the world, both locally and internationally..and so today as I was pondering this exact thought I glanced up and saw this quote...

"In a gentle way, you can shake the world"

Gandhi

So as I work on the few and small things that I hope will have an impact I will keep that quote close to my heart...

The Cause..

I know that I had promised a new blog post that had to do with my up-coming half marathon but to be honest I have been struggling with it...at first I wanted to put together a video highlighting the cause I want to focus on but there was something nagging inside me telling me that to do so wasn't the right way....it felt like I would be exploiting the people who are already suffering enough...I'll try and explain..try to do it another way.. I last told you about Sarah Wallace, the midwife from Alberta who is currently working in Haiti. I told you about the different programs that she's established in her time there. One of those programs try's to help those in her community who are struggling to care for the nutritional needs of their children. Not only does she provide them with treatment but also with weekly classes on nutrition for the mothers of the malnourished children. On my first trip to Haiti I blogged a bit about the little starving boy who had come into our clinic and the impact he had on me. You can read about it here http://liseinhaiti.blogspot.com/2010/03/good-and-bad.html and here http://liseinhaiti.blogspot.com/2010/03/mondays-my-second-favorite-day.html and here http://liseinhaiti.blogspot.com/2010/03/broken.html There were many things in Haiti that affected me but to be honest I am not sure any rocked me to the core like the malnourished kids..right to my core. There is no way to describe what it feels like to hold a starving child in your arms..there are no words...none.. Then a couple of weeks ago I came across this picture and finally learned the story behind it (or one version of it, as there are a few)

The picture was taken bythe South African photojournalist Kevin Carter in 1993, 0n a trip to the Sudan. The picture as you can see is of a starving child stopping to rest as she is supposedly making her way to a feeding center, a vulture waits to see if she will continue or if she will become..you can imagine..(there is much controversy about the picture and the actions of Mr. Carter but I don't wish to discuss those here).

I have seen this picture before but it seemed to grab at me this time..it seemed to haunt me and my thoughts..I found myself lying awake at night thinking how in a world with so many resources, such abundance do so many go to sleep at night so hungry, live each day on nothing....I thought about this exact scene and wondered how many times it has happened...I thought about all the hungry children I saw in my short time in Haiti, I felt guilty for having a full cupboard, fridge and stomach...

I had already decided to do the run and try and raise money for Sarah's malnutrition program when I saw the picture and all the thoughts and emotions that it provoked have motivated me so much more..

for me the picture tells it all...

In Haiti there are many reasons children are malnourished..I can hear those in the back of my mind talking about population control.."stop having babies because you can't feed them" and for those of you that think that I encourage you to read both Tara and Barbies blogs here as they explain so much better then me the "True reality" of life in Haiti for women and children...

http://livesayhaiti.blogspot.com/2011/03/imbalance.html

Here's a few stats from the Meds and Food for Kids website

• Malnutrition in Haiti is the result of many factors, including endemic poverty brought on by the nearly 80% unemployment rate, and primitive agricultural practices that prevent farmers from growing enough nutritious food to feed their families.

• Haiti has endured centuries of political unrest, foreign occupations, corruption, and natural disasters, leaving the country weakened and families vulnerable.

• Haiti’s literacy rate is only 50%.

• The World Bank estimates that 86% of educated Haitians have left the country, looking for a better life and taking with them the knowledge their country needs to face its many challenges and prosper.

• With an average household income of around $400 a year, 76% of Haitians live on less than $2 per day.

In her program Sarah uses a locally produced product called Medika Mamba (made by MKF in Haiti). Literally translated Medika Mamba means "peanut butter medicine" in Haitian Creole. It is what is called a "ready to use therapeutic food" and it is made up of peanuts, powered milk,oils,vitamins and minerals. It is easy to eat and therefore can be used for treating small children who don't have teeth yet. It does not need to be reconstituted thereby reducing potential of introducing illness through unclean water. It doesn't need to be refrigerated and Medika Mamba is made in Haiti by Haitians, using (wherever possible) raw materials from Haiti.

One typical treatment course lasts about 6-8 weeks, using about 25 pounds of Mamba at a cost of $65 pre course.

Two-and-a-half year old Marie-Ange was admitted to the Medika Mamba treatment program at the Haiti Rescue center weighing 13 lbs. Her seven-year-old brother, Ronel, and sister Wideline were admitted as well. Marie-Ange’s parents worked for two weeks to get together the $1.60 US, so they could have medical charts made for the children. After Medika Mamba treatment, Marie weighed a healthy 20 lbs and graduated from the program along with her brother and sister. (from MFK website)

I have seen first hand how amazing this product works...it truly is saving lives. Sarah's program is saving lives..its keeping children from starving to death..its employing Haitians, its helping a country rebuild...I want to help...

I have set a goal to help 13 children. One for every mile of my run...that's $845.. I think I can do it..will you help me?

Addendum: Donations can be made via cheque to Olive Tree Projects Society or you can go to Olive Trees website and donate there online. Indicate that the funds are for the 1/2 marathon, Nutrition project. http://www.olivetreeprojects.com/donate/

Updates..3,4,5?

So I want to write a quick post to update people on a few things... I am in the process of putting together my next big post having to do with my half-marathon..hopefully it will be ready soon. In the meantime I want to tell you a few things!

1. Shoe drive...we will, one day soon (as soon as it freaking warms up!!) sort, count and package them up. I have to get them out of my car and Sherri's garage! And yes Margie and Sandra I know I have shoes to collect from both of you..lets set a date to meet!

2. The running has begun..thanks to Tammy and Mark for being my loyal running partners although I must admit I would rather run in Fairmont then Edmonton anytime..too bad about the 6 hr drive!




3.Haiti had a relatively calm run off election for which the preliminary results will be available March 31...here's hoping for positive, lasting changes...

4. I had the privilege of meeting one special family a couple of weeks ago. Bailey and Tim Sousa had decided that for their daughters birthday they were not going to ask for presents for her. Instead Bailey heard about me and my work in Haiti thru a good friend Corinna and David Dooley (my wonderful,soon to be leaving neighbors!) and decided to ask for things that are needed in Haiti. The guests were extremely generous and as a result I will be sending off a large box to the people at Real Hope for Haiti (to put in their container) this week. Thank you little Avreilla, Bailey, Tim and all those who contributed!!




5. I have talked a fair amount about my friend Barbie, whom I met in Haiti a year ago this month and whom is one of my mentors. She is currently living/volunteering in Haiti and has written once again a thought provoking and meaningful blog post. Here it is to read..
http://barbieboots.blogspot.com/search?updated-min=2011-01-01T00%3A00%3A00-08%3A00&updated-max=2012-01-01T00%3A00%3A00-08%3A00&max-results=9

6. last but not least thank you to all of you for your kinds words over the past few weeks...I love all animals (its why I choose to not eat them) and I especially loved my little Molly...but she did not suffer and although i really miss her greeting me at the door or the pitter patter of her feet I know I did the right thing by her..



Ok off to work on that other post I promised you...hope all is well for each of you!!
(oh and I am very aware that my Hipstamatic App obsession is a little out of hand but hey we all have our vices..right!)




XOXO Night!

Invictus

OUT of the night that covers me,

Black as the Pit from pole to pole,

I thank whatever gods may be

For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance

I have not winced nor cried aloud.

Under the bludgeonings of chance

My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears

Looms but the Horror of the shade,

And yet the menace of the years

Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,

How charged with punishments the scroll,

I am the master of my fate
I am the captain of my soul

International Womens Day and Cool Humanitarian #2!

There are two ways of spreading light ...To be the candle, or the mirror that reflects it.~ Edith Wharton

About a month ago I put out my 40 before 40 list and slowly but surly I have been looking at my goals and trying to sort out plans...So despite the crazy cold that seems destined to continue on for months I have decided to tackle the goal that will see me spending the most time outdoors, training for a half marathon! Last week I signed up for the Chicago 1/2 which is in Sept, I figured that the weather might be similar there at that time so as to not stress my body too much (insert sarcasm here). SO this week a plan has been formulated, schedules drawn up and long johns pulled from the closet and a cause found..yes a cause..I'd like to introduce the second cool humanitarian and hopefully a beneficiary of any funds I can raise in my attempt to accomplish my goal!!


When I went to Haiti for the first time in March I was 35 years old and although I have travelled to different places over the world this was my first real medical trip to a third world country... Sarah Wallace is 24, she has lived in the seaside town of Jacmel,Haiti since she was 21. Sarah had travelled to Haiti as a younger girl and decided it was where she needed to be. She came home to Alberta, got her education in mid-wifery and returned to Haiti to live and work amongst the Haitian people...now I'm not sure about you but at the age of 21 I was having the time of my life, working (in a bar), going to school (taking my BA), living with 2 other girlfriends and basically having a fantastic time. I know in life it takes different amounts of time for each person to find their calling, passion (if they ever do) and even then it may take years to actually follow the steps/roads that let us fulfill that passion..that's what is so amazing about Sarah to me.

She's living her passion, her dream....

Sarah's organization is called Olive Tree Projects. Her primary purpose is to provide excellent care to expectant mothers. It is been proven that providing women with pre and post natal care greatly improves the lives of the mothers and babies which in turn improves the health and vitality of families which in turn improves the community as a whole which in turn..you get the picture...


In addition to her midwife duties she runs a nutrition program teaching mothers of malnourished children while helping them provide nutritional supplements for the children while monitoring their growth. This past year she has started a girls soccer team (to hopefully help reduce the incidence of teen pregnancies) and she also has a boys work group (for boys 10-18) that make crafts to sell with the boys receiving 50% of the profits and having 50% put into savings until they finish school. Her website is here and I have completely enjoyed reading her blog. http://www.olivetreeprojects.com/about/

And all this at the age of 24!! Sarah does all this through donations and is in my opinion a living example of passion and dedication..

Such maturity and love from such a young women... amazing really, inspiring definitely! So I have been inspired to get my butt in gear and out of bed on those freezing mornings to hopefully benefit this young women and the people she serves!
I will run the half marathon and am asking anyone wanting/willing to help sponsor me and in turn sponsor Sarah and the people of Jacmel I would so appreciate it.

As things come together I will pass on information about donations etc. Olive Tree Projects are registered in both Canada and the States so tax reciepts will be able to be issued... stay tuned.

Oh this 100 Anniversary of International Womens Day I am so excited to be helping a fellow women in the struggle...

Cool Humanitarians #1

So as most of you know I started this blog as a way of communicating with friends and family while I was away in Haiti. Quite often I use it as a sounding board for things other then Haiti (and I hope you don't mind?!)..so considering I'm not in Haiti :( how about I change it up a bit?

Today, as I sat in my warm condo looking at the beautiful sunny yet freezing cold day my thoughts began to drift (away from all those "required readings" ugghh)and I thought about an event that's going on right now just east of Edmonton, which I will tell you about in a minute...and on the tail end of that thought another came about.. why not also use it to talk about the people I encounter personally and read about that are doing great things in this world, not just for Haiti but for all the world.
I would love to be able to have the time, money and energy to be involved in more causes then I am but just because they are not things I can be involved in doesn't mean I can't tell you about all the people and causes I encounter..maybe you might have some time to get involved.. So in addition to writing about Haiti I will also be posting here about different causes, volunteer opportunities and in general all the cool people doing great things for the world!

So the event that got me thinking this way is The World's Longest Hockey Game, currently being played just east of Edmonton at "Saiker's Acres". This game is being played by 40 individuals (including only 1 girl..but have a feeling that may change) 24 hours a day for 11 days straight. The goal of the game, aside from retaining the title of longest game in Guinness, is to raise $1 million dollars for a new linear accelerator (radiation machine) for the Cross Cancer. The game (number 4 played by these guys) is currently into day 8 and it is freaking cold out there today!! Blisters, frostbite, fatigue and you name it will happen to these guys and gal over the 11 days but as I witnessed first hand they will take it all is stride and prove their true Canadian spirit.

You can read more about it here http://www.worldslongestgame.com/ I had the privilege of meeting Brent while his wife Susan was in the Cross and I can tell you he truly is an amazing man! In 2005 (game #2) I volunteered at the game doing miscellaneous stuff and it was such a great experience. I will try and head out there at some point in the next few days to cheer them on..and maybe bring some hot, hot drinks...

So there we have it..my first shout-out to the cool humanitarians of the world... I have met many so get ready for more to come!

Enjoy your weeknd..stay safe and warm..

changes..part two..

I have not written in a long time..sorry about that. Life fills up time and stuff gets pushed to the back burner..So in my last post I spoke about need a change and the biggest one for me has occurred...

It was with a lot of sadness I left my job at the Cancer Hospital. I loved my job, I loved my colleagues, I loved my patients but I also know my limits and I was very close to mine when I decided to leave. Everyone that works in health care give of their hearts and souls..they work tirelessly to help people who are in very often the most trying times in their lives, they care for people as if they are their own family, they welcome the beginning of life and help with the ending of life...they carry patients,families and all their stories with them long after they go home at night...I love my job, I love the people I get to work with and for everyday but sometimes I run out of the give...and I am afraid that is where I found myself a couple of weeks ago...

The staff of the Cross are amazing,amazing people and I would not have been able to accomplish half of what I have in the last few years if it had not been for them. They are some of my best friends and I know they will be for the rest of my life. They have helped me grow as a nurse and more importantly as a human being and I thank them for that!

So I am off to something different..not bigger or better just different and I am looking forward to the change and growth that will come from this new job! Thanks to all of you for your well wishes!

Unfortunately with a change like this plans for other parts of my life have had to change also and I won't be able to go back to Haiti till the summer now...that is something that has me very sad today...I know this will be a good time for learning and saving and growing but I must admit I am longing to feel the hot sun on my face, smell the smells that only Haiti can produce, I long for the simplicity that becomes my life when I am there..I miss Rose and Olez..I miss Beth and all the people at Heartline...

The other day I was out and saw a card and have decided that although everyday I need to work towards my goalsand that I must not let things hold me back from going where I want to go in life, not all things will come to me as fast as I want them too!!

Patience Weedhopper patience..