We were blessed by God to travel with Brad and Monica to Lagosette on the Magi Box delivery trip. After being friends with them for months and months via facebook, email, phone and text, we finally met live for the first time in the Miami airport. It felt like a blind date! But, we quickly found that they were even more charming in person.
We flew to Port-au-Prince where we made connections with David Vanderpool and then took the 30-minute flight on Salsa over to Cap Haitien. One of Monica’s bags and one of ours never made it to Haiti, so we were forced to buy some groceries in Cap. Of course, this afforded us an excuse to eat at La Kay…nothing like roasted goat with creole sauce, rice and beans, and fried plantains to start the trip off right.
While we were out driving we decided to go to Milot to visit the medical facilities there. Brad introduced us to several people with whom they have worked over the years. We saw a new prosthesis clinic that looks amazing.
Upon reaching Lagosette Saturday afternoon, word spread through the village of our arrival. Kids began showing up to see for themselves. We soon had a yard full of friends who wanted to hug and play and visit. The weather was much cooler than expected as rain had been falling most of the day. We actually wished for blankets through the night!
Brad and several others traveled to Limbe’ on Sunday to help with cholera relief efforts. We stayed behind with Monica to attend morning services, play with the kids and visit COTP. There were 34 present for morning services and many hugs and kisses were exchanged. Sunday afternoon brought coloring books on the porch, soccer games and Creole/English lessons. They learned and we learned.
Monday was the big day! We visited chapel services and then the Magi boxes were distributed. I had visions of the scene out of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" when the Grinch threw toys and gadgets this way and that among laughs and squeals and smiles! We passed out over 400 boxes and soon the village filled with sounds of kazoos and harmonicas, and the air filled with new balls and Frisbees. New clothes were tried on and candy was shared. It was a sight and experience to behold.
Monday evening we divided up sides for a “serious” soccer match. And, I am glad to report that the American contingent prevailed over our dear friends. I suppose I should note that we had the best villager on our team and that Makendy, aka “Zopoupe,” had countless saves in goal for us as well. Brad thought he was the MVP but it was almost cheating to have Wilson play for us.
Tuesday brought us back home only to hear of violence and unrest back in Haiti. While we are grateful to be out of harm’s way, our hearts and prayers go out to our brothers and sisters in Haiti.
We look forward to our next trip to Haiti and future trips with Brad and Monica, wherever that might be. This trip was truly a blessing for all involved. “Thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” I Corinthians 15:57
Danny & Karen Sullivan
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