On-the-ground report

Dear Friends - I arrived in Haiti late this morning after a 24 hour non-stop trip via the Dominican Republic. A special thanks to Rachelle Gomez, Sarah (whose last name I never got) and Jessica Heckert, all of whom helped arrange transportation and lodging on the fly in the Dominican Republic. The scene in Haiti is indescribable, or at least would take a long time to do so. However I'm sure you've seen even more of it than I have in the media. Word here is that the aftershocks, some of which reached 5.0, will subside around Saturday, so everyone's priority is avoiding further tragedy until then.

I appreciate the outpouring of concern for Haitians in general and HELP in particular. Communication and transportation are extremely challenging. We have arranged for medical care for the injured students and staff and have started accounting for students and alumni. We have yet to confirm any deaths of HELP students, alumni or staff, although many are still unaccounted for. We are working on a master list and will update everyone as best we can under the circumstances.

Thanks to those who have asked how they can help and to those who are already on their way down. There is a great need for doctors, especially orthopaedic surgeons. If any medical personnel are willing to come, they will be put to good use although conditions are primitive. Other volunteers will find it difficult to be effective in a rather chaotic relief effort, so I would recommend donations to the American Red Cross for general relief, Partners in Health and NPH for medical relief and of course HELP as we start to rebuild what has been lost.

Thanks again for your concern and support. It is heart-warming for my fellow staff and students.

Peace,Conor