Haitian Health

The country of Haiti, statistically, ranks near the bottom as far as health. Unfortunately, this is caused primarily by a dreadful lack of sanitary conditions, an absence of an effective healthcare system, a high rate of infectious diseases, a country which is an environmental disaster, a broken down food supply chain, etc. Well, the list goes on. While one can’t ignore these facts, it is odd to observe that, despite the facts, most people look healthy.

Few people are over weight. We saw very few smokers. A high proportion of people have beautiful teeth. Despite the unbelievable misery and widespread deprivation, the people of Haiti are a beautiful people! While driving on most city streets is like an urban version of “road warrior” and the street life seems like an "end of the world" movie set, there is a very open caring and affection for others. Haitians have a smile that seems to come from the bottom of their hearts.

Does the lack of the many things we take for granted, such as ready access to and availability of food, drinks, sweets, etc. add to one’s general health? Haitians typically rely on a diet of locally grown foods, rice, beans, and very limited meat protein. There are no fast food joints, no Starbucks (bummer), no donuts. Ice cream only seems to show up in pictures. Junk food is very expensive. People are forced to walk.

How many of the health problems in our country are caused by having “too much”? Does it take lack and hard times to make us re-evaluate what is best for us and our families? Does it take witnessing the suffering of others to make us truly appreciate the bounty of what we have here in our community?

Maybe, you need to be the judge.

LouAnn Good
Fitness Together Fort Myers