GPzMike Abroad

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HAITI | Sunday, 28 November 2010 | Views [277] | Comments [6]

We are in base lockdown today while the polls are open for elections here in Haiti. No one is allowed to enter or leave the base until tomorrow morning. We are prepared to extend the lockdown if deemed necessary for safety.

Demonstrations and rallies have been going on, but nothing horrendous here in Leogane. A few people have died in clashes between supporters when different candidate rallies bump into one another. There are only 2 polling locations in the city of Leogane! I can't imagine the turmoil that those location are going to experience today. I hope all is quiet and orderly.

Strangely, the 'official numbers' on the cholera outbreaks have rather dried up since we've gotten close to election day. I suspect there is a connection.

While returning from the school 5 opening ceremony on Friday I was flipped off and 'fuck you'-ed a couple of times - hasn't happened before so I wonder if it was due to the heightened volatility of the elections of if it was 'just my time'. And you know me...hard to turn the other cheek...sigh.

Comments

1

Hi Mike,

A group of us from Santa Cruz, CA will be out in PAP and Jacmel around the 11th of December. I wish we could make it all the way to Leogane, but I don't know if I will be able to.

Let me know if you want us to bring you anything from the Bay Area, we can make stops for ya!

Keep up the good work and thanks for blogging your experience!
-JB

Josh Brown Dec 2, 2010 8:24 PM

2

Hey Mikey!
So glad to hear that you recognize the difficulty in turning the other cheek, but do it anyway.
I was thinking of you the other day and realized how incredibly strong you are to be out there, on your own, relying so much on yourself. You have conquered some amazing feats in your life, and this is certainly one of them. I hope you can hold onto your sense of purpose, your conviction, and your desire to help. I am so very proud of you.
I love you,
-Korky

Korin Dec 5, 2010 5:34 PM

3

Mikey, just wanted to echo what Korky said. I can't even fathom doing what you're doing, I don't think I possess the strength.
Keep on keepin' on, brother!
Love ya man, hope to see you in 2011!
Warren

Mark White Dec 6, 2010 11:50 PM

4

Talked to Mike last night. They're still largely staying close to the base due to the election and cholera related instability, but they are well and safe. He is being cautious, but is not overly worried. The south, where they are, seems much less problematic than the north or the capital. Mike said he is planning to be back in the bay area in January. Stay tuned for another update soon!

Jon Dec 17, 2010 4:45 PM

5

Hey Mike...What can I say...you are one tough and dedicated human being with a big big heart. I don't personnally know anyone else who could have accomplished what you have done.. I admire the way you have had to overcome extremely tough situations while at the same time questioning your own desires and motivations. Some tough challenge and you met it head on, well done. I am so proud to know someone like you. I have been inspired by your dedication and toughness. Hope you are home safe and sound soon. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
take care
harry

PS "have fun dammit"

Harry Jan 1, 2011 5:20 AM

6

Just read your 'update' & I'm glad that you're ok. You seem to be going through some tough times over there. A belated Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from your bud in Canada eh?

Hope to talk to you soon.

MikeC Jan 5, 2011 11:20 PM