Nuns on the Run

Although it was rather nice to sleep in and relax yesterday, I awoke from a rather long nap with the need to get out and explore a little. Marisa, an OB/Gyn resident spending the next three weeks in Haiti (she is staying with Dr. Merisier) had come by earlier in the day to introduce herself and see how things were going. We parted at lunchtime, but not before she explained how I could get to Dr. Merisier's house and the new clinic. At around three in the afternoon I set out, a regular blan (general Haitian word for foreigner), with sunglasses and water in tow. I was maybe seven minutes from the front of Cardinal Leger, when I heard a slight commotion behind me. Two of the nuns (dressed in their habits) were in pursuit, calling my name and waving while a whole bunch of townspeople just laughed. I tried to explain (in sign language, really) that I was just on my way to Dr. Merisier's, that I knew where I was going, etc., but to no avail. Instead, I decided to return with them, completely mortified. The tale was recounted at dinner last evening AND again tonight... hilarious. I remain quite embarrassed, though they all seem to think it is just humorous (granted, I am not entirely sure what they are saying... but I get the gist).

In other news, Dr. Merisier's clinic officially opened today. When I had first seen it back in October, it consisted of only one floor, without any doors, floors, furniture or plumbing. Today, however, it looked absolutely transformed: the inside was finished, painted and quite spacious, while the second floor had been added (though has yet to be completed). We set to organizing one of the exam rooms and were subsequently able to screen approximately 30 women for the HPV virus. I am told this daily number will likely increase dramatically, as more women learn about the screening and the clinic's new location. (Eventually, I will try to post some pictures of the clinic - before and after).

A quick note on the name of my blog. It is a Haitian proverb that (I think) means: "Little by little the bird builds his nest." Not entirely sure why I picked it, but overall it just seemed to fit. I'm still trying to find by place in medicine and on a smaller scale, to determine my role while in Haiti. It also seemed appropriate with regards to FHM (Family Health Ministries...the nonprofit founded by my mentor and his wife): little by little they are trying to make things better in Haiti.

I suppose that is more than enough for one evenings; it currently appears the mosquitoes are out in full force...I best head back to my room/bug spray.