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Concerning the tragedy still unfolding in Haiti,a week ago today we[ on a cruise] were the first large ship to put in after the earth quake.When we heard the news whilst at sea there was alot of deliberation and soul searching amongst passengers[ and crew], as to weather or not in the circumstances, to put in.I must say I,and my wife were against it, thinking it crass and insensitive in the extreme.
However,as so often events moved quickly, and the US authorities[at the behest of the Haitian government] contacted the ship and asked the captain if,being in the area he would deliver some much needed emergency aid.This was duly loaded at St Thomas [US Virgin Islands] our stop prior to Haiti and taken to Laberdee,the opposite side of the Island to Portoprince.It was then transported to where it was needed.
We spent a pleasant, if muted few hours shore,with many locals thanking us and the crew for making the trip.Which seemed to vindicate the decision to land.The ship also raised over $26000 in an appeal,plus donated all money spent that day.I was also pleased to hear that the British were amongst the first rescue teams to arrive.
I can only say my heart goes out to those poor peolple,and I fervently hope they get all the help they need!
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A clever Man learns by his mistakes..
A Wise Man learns by other people's!
The Road to HELL ..is Paved with "Good inventions!"
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