Archangel Airborne Making A Difference in Haiti

Just 600 miles from the United States is the Island of Haiti. The population that lives there has the sad distinction of being the poorest country in the western hemisphere. So, it is no great surprise that the medical system is undersupplied and understaffed, and in some of the more remote sections of this island, healthcare is almost primitive.

However, there is some good news, thanks to the efforts of Archangel Airborne, which delivers critical medical supplies and equipment to areas of great need. They are bringing resources, knowledge and compassion to this struggling region.

Archangel was founded by Sullivan County native Stuart Hirsch in 2010 and the work he and his team have done since then is truly remarkable. Stuart(President and Chief Executive Officer) and Mike Lovelace(Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer) attended our June 27^th meeting and captivated us with their description of the amazing work they have been doing.

The median age in Haiti is only 29 years old, which is clearly well below the United States. Infant and maternal mortality is incredibly high and there is a high incidence of TB and HIV. Additionally, a very high percentage of the population suffers from hypertension. The hospital in Archangel’s primary focus area is in Les Cayes and is extremely basic, lacking essential instruments, medications, sheets, and sanitation. Many of the patients have never seen a doctor or received any medical services at any time during their lives.

Thanks to Archangel Airborne, equipment, antibiotics, and a talented team of medical and aviation experts arrive to treat the underserved masses. On their last mission they served about 1,000 patients in four different clinics. The photos our visitors shared were troubling because of the incredibly primitive conditions in which these Haitians receive care, but also inspiring, because Archangel was able to do so much good in a short time.

Archangel Airborne’s unofficial motto is “We can’t change the past, but we can change the future.” A fitting aphorism as this group is attempting to make major changes to an area that has done without for a very long time. Archangel takes great pride in being there as citizens of the U.S. and working on a situation that could be interpreted as having little hope. They are forming relationships and give seminars and lessons so that the care continues beyond each mission. The dedicated team of medical and aviation experts is to be commended for their incredible contribution to humanity. For those participating, the missions have become meaningful experiences as they provide the medical assistance that is so desperately needed in Haiti.

If you would like more information or would like to make a donation to Archagel Airborne, access their website archangelairborne.org.

Thank you to Stuart and Mike for all the good that you and your organization are doing.