Rice and Beans (diri ak pwa) a Cure-all? If Only!

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Salye tout moun (Hello Everyone),

I hope those of you fortunate to have free time are enjoying or did enjoy a restful March break. Activites in Orangeville certainly seemed to slow down last week.

Although I am (for the time being) still grounded, Starthrower continues to function effectively. I spoke with Auguste and Carmine last week. Mme Carmine told me that if I could get her a passport, she would come and cook for me; she is certain that her diri ak pwa (rice and beans) will cure anything!

Auguste assures me that the staff continues to work cheerfully, taking care of all, including our youth, cats, dogs etc. Last night I spoke with Sister Rosemary (Sewoz), who also assures me that we have the best staff in Cap-Haitien. I already knew that. :-)

Our friend and sponsor Mme Marjorie is currently in the Dominican Republic with a team of nurses, organizing and carrying out eyeglass clinics. She took with her 2 new laptop computers, a gift from her for our 2 pre-med students -- Elorge and Marlene -- in Santiago, DR.

These laptops will be of great assistance to these students. Two other students -- Deles and VIncent -- in their second year Agriculture in Limbe are both in need of laptops. As well, Vincent needs a new sponsor (or group of sponsors) to see him through the last 2 years of the program.

Our waiting list contains six high school grads from last year who would like the opportunity for post secondary education. I know this is not wholly within our mandate, but it means so much to these young adults. There will be more graduates this year, as well. These young people, given the opportunity, are the ones who will lay the foundation for change in Haiti. Thanks to all who have and continue to support them and the younger students.

I am out of hospital and once again being supported at home by the amazing visiting nurses from St. Elizabeth health care, and several personal support workers from the Red Cross. What a difference they make to my quality of life!

As Karen reported, the surgery went well. It just wasn't the surgery I had anticipated. As there were still abscesses at the time of my second surgery, surgical time was spent draining and repairing. The colostomy reversal will wait for a third surgery, the date to be determined by the surgeon. I 'll be back at St. Mike's hospital on April 6 for my follow-up appointment.

Once again, thanks to all who phoned and sent cards. Your thoughtfulness and moral support are much appreciated. Who would have thought that E Coli was so destructive?

In the meantime, I am once again regaining strength, being careful to do as little as possible for 6 weeks, and getting comfortable with the miniature size of the netbook laptop I use to stay in touch with staff and Starthroweres. If only my fingers were younger! The keys are so close together. (What a great excuse for the typos I make regardless of keyboard size.)

Take care of each other, and ala pwochen (until the next time)

Beni-w
Sharon