Swing Life Away - Rise Against

A lot of significant/meaningful events have happened to me in the past month. Ironically, I only blog about things that don't matter as much.

But yes, I'm alive. Last semester of classes is hectic.

Haiti was incredible, I've learned so much about the culture, what is means to be privileged, & myself- specifically, how I want to feel coming home from work every day. I've stated it time & again, this past summer shook my confidence in my abilities, in compassion, & in people. Haiti was a big kick in the face as a long needed remedy. There wasn't enough we could do, 12 hour days spent interacting w/ med students & patients, filling scripts, making substitutions, & counseling every single person that walked out of our clinic was tiring & yes, stressful. However, it was the happiest I've been, even moreso than being done w/ finals. Simply because I knew that I was surrounded (for the most part) by a wonderful team that was just as passionate about patient care & on an organic level, we're helping human beings. Materialistic desires & social statuses fly out the window when you look out & you see young kids in the streets playing because their parents can't afford to pay tuition. You think less of that favorite five star restaurant when you hear the average Haitian only eats three meals a week, see animals roaming the streets alongside unregulated vehicles, shanty towns stretching as far as the eye can see on either side of the road (while on the way to a pool resort for a fun day), & the list goes on. It has completely humbled me and helps focus me for school. I don't think I can say enough about the trip, I've rambled enough about it already.
A few select favorites:

Pharmacy set up at our clinic in Borel

Walking around Borel before leaving for Port-au-Prince

Ruins of the National Cathedral

Roldolph & Lemoux. Two of the orphans that had the biggest impact on me. Foyer des Enfants.

During our second orphanage visit, the two kids I played soccer with for a good hour

Rooftop view of Notre Maison, the orphanage we stayed at while in PAP

Lastly, before the break ended I was fortunate enough to meet Russ, a homeless man, pictured below. Not sure if I should be ashamed about this but I was definitely skeptical that he was homeless until he told me his story over lunch. I feel very fortunate to have met him, our conversation helped me identify my own preconceived notions & do some internal reflection.