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Haiti, before the earthquake…

My early days of scientific research, statistics, and biology began studying an endangered tree species with my research professor and dear friend- Dr. Roland de Gouvenian. As our relationship grew so did my focus into a different field of research. We would spend a lot of time together- lost in the woods, roaming an island, and even working in rainstorms- and yet it would be our companionship that would get us through the best and most difficult of times. One of the nicest things about having a French professor- besides the constant in-your-face brie cheese- is learning about different cultures. One thing I really appreciated, in addition to my friendship with Rolando, was the time spent learning from his wife Joceyln. Jocelyn might even have a bigger heart than Rolando. I learned that Joceyln isn’t French, but that she is actually Haitian.  Our friendship sparked my interest in a country that has been labeled the poorest in the western hemisphere, but the true wealth of this country, as I learned, was in the culture, food and even the music of the Haitians.

When I found out that Haiti had been struck by an earthquake, with reports claiming a devastated Port-au-Prince, I immediately emailed Rolando. Since the earthquake we have been in constant communication, and I was sent some photos he took of what Haiti was like before the earthquake…

Port-au-Prince, Haiti

Eglise du Sacre-Coeur, Les Caye

Port-au-Prince, Haiti -Presidential Palace

Pétionville, Haiti

Port-au-Prince, Haiti

Port-au-Prince, Haiti

Borne Fer, Haiti

| if I knew all the words I would write myself out of here. |