A volunteer for life

When working and volunteering with persons with disabilities in Haiti, I slowly learned that it takes time and empathy to hear and understand what another person needs and wants for themselves and not to filter my good intentions through my assumptions and my own need to help.

A disabled child does not need our plush toys that get dirty and become unsanitary or our thoughts and prayers that they can't understand. They need caring, respectful, sustainable physical therapy treatments and support for their families who bear the additional burden of care giving on top of poverty and insecurity.

Adults with disabilities don't want our fleeting interactions withdrawn and never to be seen again. They would like reliable and continuous medical treatment and training for jobs that will sustain them independently.

I was honoured that those in greatly disadvantaged circumstances, living right in my own geographical backyard, shared their time and stories with me so generously. It changed me. I go back and will return as often as I can to apply what they taught me about life. Thank you, Martine. Eric Doubt