Kalli Flaherty- Day 3

Me again!

We just finished our 3rd day in Haiti and our 2nd day of dentistry. Today was a very full day and lots got done!! We did cleanings, fillings, extractions and root canals!! Everyone is always busy doing something or helping someone else accomplish something, feels nice to be productive! There are three of us including Dr. Z that came down last year to Haiti (another assistant and I), and this year another doctor, two assistants and one hygienist from other offices joined our team! It is so amazing to see everyone in their dental element. We are all from different types of offices, coming together and making things run smoothly. Everyone has their own strengths and we've really been working great together as a team.

Every day around lunch time we take a break, have some snacks and rest our feet for a while. Today we walked down to a nearby orphanage. The founder/owner of this orphanage told us the story of how he started the orphanage and a little background about his life. He explained to us that he grew up poor, and his parents passed away when he was really young. So he was an orphan himself, which made his passion for helping others ignite. Him and his brother pay out of their own pockets to feed, clothe, give shelter and guidance to these young orphans. They have a small school connected also where 525 neighboring children along with the orphans who stay there get an education. I was surprised at how small the classrooms seemed, but they sure make it work. We got to play and hang out  with the orphans for about an hour. We brought jump ropes, soccer balls, footballs, hair ties, nail polish and some food for these orphans. They were all very polite, respectful and grateful for our presence and for the things we brought them. It is so inspiring to see these young children with not much of anything, still thriving and enjoying life. Last year we didn't get to visit this orphanage, but I am so thankful for the opportunity this year. It was so moving to see a man so selfless, devoting his whole life helping children who didn't have the mean to fend for themselves. His attitude towards everything was so positive, and asking nothing in return for all the good he's done. We need more people like this in the world, thinking not about themselves, but others.

Tomorrow we are working in the morning and in the afternoon are taking a trip to the beach! We are all very excited to have some relaxing time and also go out to eat!

Thanks for listening, until next time!!

XOXO
Kalli Kay Flaherty