Reach Out to Haiti
Posted by R Scott Ward, PT, PhD
at http://movingforwardapta.blogspot.com/
We are all deeply saddened by the immense destruction and loss of life we’re seeing and hearing about following the devastating earthquake in Haiti. The challenges the Haitians face are astounding and truly difficult to fathom. They desperately need help and I know many APTA members are eager to provide it.
It is no surprise to me that we’ve had many calls from caring members wanting to volunteer or assist in some way. It’s the nature of our organization and one reason I’m so proud to be a part of it.
We have been in touch with the Red Cross and have heard from APTA member Chuck Gulas, PT, PhD, who happened to be on sabbatical in Haiti, working with the group Health Volunteers Overseas. Chuck was unharmed and is now working with colleagues, including APTA member Denise English, PT, to assist with casualties. We have been told that the very best way we can help right now is via financial donations. Donated goods will not get there in time and there are a number of organizations with experience in disaster relief already on the ground in Haiti.
I recommend two ways you can assist with donations. First, you can give to the American Red Cross in one of three ways:
- A quick donation of $10 via text by texting the word HAITI to 90999. The amount will be added to your next phone bill.
- Sending a check, made out to the American Red Cross, directly to them with “for Haitian Relief” on the ‘note’ line. Checks should be mailed to American Red Cross, PO Box 4002018, Des Moines, IA 50340-2018.
- Donating to the Red Cross’ International Response Fund online.
Second, Chuck has asked that we donate to the Hȏpital Albert Schweitzer, the local medical facility where patients and casualties are beginning to flow in. If you would like to donate to Hȏpital Albert Schweitzer, you can do so on their Web site at http://www.friendsofhas.org/. APTA will be making a donation on behalf of membership to help the hospital.
In a recent e-mail Chuck said, “Word from Port (au Prince) is all bad. Hospitals, schools and even the UN building has collapsed… A very huge tragedy for this country and these wonderful people… Please urge people to contribute to the rescue effort.” Chuck has been keeping his blog updated and you can follow his progress here at http://drgulas.com/.
If you are involved -- or know of other APTA members involved in -- the relief effort, we invite you to share your stories via this blog.
On behalf of the entire APTA team, I want to thank everyone for their concern and generosity. Let’s come together now and do what we can to extend help to Haiti.