A Message from Dr. Sugar

We have a very unique and wonderful opportunity to help our fellow man and to give out of the benefits and advantages we possess in our country, but we also have a chance to simply bring hope.

We are all aware of the tragedy that took place in Haiti on January 12th, 2010. Thankfully, much work has been done since the earthquake; in spite of this, much work remains. The Haitian people have a tremendous spirit and are extremely resilient. Circumstances were already difficult for them prior to the earthquake, and since that time they have been nothing short of horrendous.

On my trips to Haiti, I witnessed a people who are kind and gentle and are tremendously appreciative of the outpouring of assistance given to them in terms of medical care, food and shelter. What has made perhaps the most significant impact in my mind is that, in addition to providing for these basic needs, great love has been shown to the Haitian people. To know that the world cares about you and loves you goes a long way to lift one’s spirits.

Future trips to Haiti are being well coordinated and planned unlike our first few visits when we went in more like strike forces to quickly insert ourselves and provide medical and spiritual support. In the beginning, with the large volume of assistance flooding into the country, many standard protocols for providing emergency assistance in Haiti were put aside. Since that time, a great deal of logistical work has to be done, and clearance with State Department and the Haitian government needs to be taken care before we enter the country.

I thank everyone for all of their support in the past and going forward. We have a very unique and wonderful opportunity to help our fellow man and to give out of the benefits and advantages we possess in our country, but we also have a chance to simply bring hope. As many of you have read in my past letters after trips to Haiti, the experience is incredibly moving, rewarding and satisfying on many levels. I have been so blessed with so many gifts, but perhaps the biggest gift of all is the ability to share what I have been given with those who are in need.

Please feel free to share this information to anyone and everyone that you know who may be interested. I look forward to hearing from you and working together in the future.