We in college health are deeply saddened by the catastrophic loss of life and countless injuries suffered by the people of Haiti from the recent devastating earthquake. We share the pain of all, and the empathy of our nation and the world, as we only begin to grasp the enormity of the disaster and the Haitian people’s immediate plight. Words cannot describe the scope of damage and destruction that has been thrust on individuals, families and institutions of this developing nation. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to all who have lost loved ones, as well as to those who continue to struggle through what will surely be a difficult and protracted recovery period. We are heartened by the immediate actions of the U.S. and other nations, and are hopeful that aid, relief, and recovery assistance, by governments and NGOs, is expedited and sustained to help this impoverished nation and the less fortunate of its people.
As college health professionals, we remain dedicated to providing compassionate, high quality care and support to our communities; surely that support will be especially needed for those on our campuses who are from Haiti, or have family and friends there. In addition, it is likely students, faculty, and staff from our institutions will volunteer their services in Haiti. As we move ahead, with resolve and professionalism, we should take special care to assist, comfort, and support them in whatever ways possible. Caring focus on their needs, as well as the needs of the Haitian people, is something we all can support.
James C. Turner, MD, FACHA
President
American College Health Association
Doyle Randol, MS, Col. USA (Ret.)
Executive Director
American College Health Association
