I had a lovely week in Dominican Republic – I just needed a fly and flop and that is what I got!
If you remember, I called you while I was there as the address wasn’t complete and the phone number was out of order. I had also left a message with Avi and he recommended that I ask the locals where they go. So I got hooked up with a great taxi driver. He explained that clinics are private there and people have to pay – it is the public hospitals where the poor folk go. So he took me to the Hospital Musa in San Pedro de Macoris. I was introduced to the Director who was just going into a meeting but introduced me to the pharmacy ladies. They were pleased to take the supplies. With the help of my wonderful driver, Luis, who translated for me all morning, I made them aware they could sign up as a designated clinic and even send in a list of items they especially need. They will be sending an email as that had them very excited.
Although the hospital was quite large, it is definitely in need of assistance. The line in Emergency was long and sad. Most of the hall ways were not lit and often had buckets to catch water where the roof leaks.
I have included a picture of me with the pharmacy ladies and one with me an Luis – the man who saved the day!
Jenn [NJT Toronto]
