Getting ready to go

     I am a practicing OB/GYN in Avon, Indiana. I have been trying to go to Haiti as part of a medical team since the earthquake occurred January 12,2010.  My initial efforts were very frustrating.  I contacted multiple medical relief organizations without success.  I was told that the quotas were full, but I would be put on a waiting list.  At the same time, I was watching  the evening news channels crying for more doctors to come and help.  I kept making calls without success.  I finally had a chance encounter with Pastor Jim Ramsey, an associate pastor at Avon United Methodist Church, as he was making his rounds at the hospital.  He directed me to Mission Haiti Midwest directed by Dr. Mark Fulton.  I contacted Dr, Fulton as he was on his way to Haiti.  After several redirects, I finally made contact and was added to the team.
     I first visitited Dr. Jim Richardson, an infectious disease specialist and a veteran of many medical mission trips around the world.  There I received my Hep A vaccine, typhoid vaccine, anti-malarial meds, and preventive antibiotics.  Then off to the stores to pick up the necessary supplies.  Hopefully that is done.
     Last Sunday, we met at Chapel Hill United Methodist Church to organize the supplies to be taken.  A small mountain of medical supplies, medicines, food and sundries was organized, triaged and weighed.  What needs to go for sure, what needs to go if we have room and what can wait.
     Travel plans have been back and forth with several preliminary plans and .changes.  At this time we are departing Friday morning Feb. 5 (note:4-8" of snow predicted at that time).  Indianapolis to Ft. Lauderdale, Fl via Atlanta.  Ground transportation to Ft. Pierce, Fl to spend Friday night.  Saturday morning flying to Port au Prince via MFI (Missionary Flights International), a missionary flight organization. From Port au Prince to Saint Ard, site of the clinic about 30 miles north of the capital city.  At the end of the week, we are to make our way to Santa Domingo, Dominican republic for our flight back to Indianapolis on Feb 13.
     At this point I don't know what my duties will be.  Of course, as an obstetrician I would like to perform deliveries and, if necessary, cesarian sections.  I am, however, also a surgeon and who knows how my hands may be needed.  My general medical skills are in there, I just have to fine tune them again.  Whatever presents itself, that's what I'll have to do.  I'll have to resurect the old Marine Corps "accomplish the mission" attitude.
     Of course, I haven't packed yet.  That will now be my next step. 
     I'll continue to post if at all possible and if I ever figure this thing out, even post some pictures.