5 Years Later and Going Strong

By Adam Sarbin March 1st, 2015

I am thrilled to report we are 11 strong this year, some repeaters and some new to the family as always, and we are all together, safely at our destination. The weatherman again threatened to make our travel “interesting”, with the possibility of icing right at the time of our departure…but alas, aside from a brief de-icing procedure, our flight left nearly on time with an on time arrival in Atlanta. We quickly united with Chelsea, who had arrived from Boston shortly before us. We had time at the gate for food, card games, charging of electronics and even some last calls to loved ones before boarding for our final destination. I must say, not flying out of Miami felt a bit awkward…lacking tradition, however, the process through Atlanta was so smooth, I think we could definitely get used to this new approach. That said, anything can happen at any given time, especially when Haiti is in the equation, so we will not get too comfortable.

Once in the Port au Prince airport, we gathered our bags, united with Vanessa and ran the Customs gauntlet…without a doubt, my least favorite aspect of our experiences, however it went more smoothly than ever. Once all bags and people were loaded in the van and truck we were right on the road to Gonaives and made it easily in 3 hrs…and we were entertained by our little buddy Charlie…cuter than ever!!! The time really flew by…by Haitian standards!! We pulled into the parking lot of our hotel, a true oasis. We got nets hung and then enjoyed a wonderful Haitian dinner! You will never guess our dinner guests…Kez, Christine and all her children. What a great night!!

As I close tonight I find myself reflecting about the months leading up to this 6th installment. I must say, I have been frustrated by my own personal feelings of being overwhelmed which resulted in a degree of malaise which in turn just piled on the frustration. After all, this experience is generally one of the highlights of my year and I could not justify my feelings. Intellectually, I think I knew what was at the root, but I struggled still. You see, it is times like this when I pick up the phone and call my friend and brother, Peter and we just yap for awhile…and invariably, there is understanding and encouragement. We lean on each other at times like these and life is better. So lately I have been listening harder to hear the comforting words of wisdom and encouragement, because I know they are there…have been there all along. And lo and behold, his voice came through loud and clear once again.

The other night as I was searching the website for a blog entry from last year’s trip, I stumbled on a Reply from Peter, sent from home as he was just starting his battle with cancer. His words rang true then and they were just the right medicine one year later. He ended his reply as follows:

My love and best wishes to all on this trip. Hike the hill and watch the sun set. Enjoy the company of those around you. Give a hug to a patient or child who needs it. Savor the taste of mango and perhaps some goat for breakfast. Let your cup runneth over…”
– Peter Whitehead, MD

Implied translation…just enjoy the experience and everything else will work itself out. Wise, wise words.

As you can imagine, I still remain a bit off this year and I have indeed realized it is because my brother is not with us anymore, but his spirit and wisdom lives on and inspires, and I feel certain this 6th installment is part of my healing. I believe we will all come out of this experience with an even stronger commitment to our mission. I now look forward to the work ahead, the new discoveries we are sure to make and the plans we will make for our future, which in no small measure will be to honor our great friend.

That is all I can muster tonight. Will write again tomorrow.

Love to All,
The Team