Helping Hands In Haiti

In March, Tia Pester, one of MOSAIC’s physical therapists, went on a medical mission trip to Haiti. Haiti is the poorest country in the western hemisphere. Following the earthquake in 2010, access to routine medical care and clean drinking water became even more limited. As a whole, the country suffers from poor nutrition and lack of access to medical care. Consequently, the average life expectancy in Haiti is only 50 years of age.

The medical team Tia traveled with consisted of forty-one physicians, nurse practitioners and pharmacists. Physical therapists, dentists, medical and dental students, and various other support staff also traveled to Haiti.

More Than a Mission Trip

They provided the locals with a multitude of free services. These included primary care, physical therapy and vestibular rehab,  as well as, tooth extractions, eye exams and glasses. Access to pharmaceuticals were also provided. Each team member was responsible for supplying all of their own equipment. Local physical therapy clinics and patients donated assistive devices, shoes, glasses, braces, and slings to help cover those needs.

While in Haiti, the medical team treated 1,368 patients in just four days! These clinics were set up in the cities of Canaan and Jerusalem. These cities are near the capital of Port-au-Prince. An additional clinic was set up for the families and the staff of the guest house where the group stayed for the week.

Global Health Outreach, which is part of Christian Medical and Dental Associations, is a national organization.  They run medical mission trips to numerous countries including areas of Africa, Central and South America, and the Middle East. Tia plans to continue to participate in medical mission trips in the future. Consequently, if you have any extra braces, canes, or equipment that you no longer need, don’t throw it away! Drop it off at MOSAIC Rehabilitation and we will donate it towards Tia’s next adventure, wherever that may be.