U.S. Secretary of Health visit St. Damien at NPFS Haiti

The United States Secretary of Health was a guest of St. Damien Hospital recently. She was hosted by our beloved Father Rick Frechette together with Dr. Jacqueline Gautier, Director of St. Damien Hospital. On her first visit to Haiti, the Secretary met with the Administration of the Hospital, participated in a Q&A session and toured the entire property which ecompasses the ARV (AIDS) clinic among others.


Given the fact that the U.S.A. is partners with Haiti in fighting AIDS there were many questions posed that addressed serious concerns. With reference to medication and travel, one of the patients asked if it is possible to imagine a medicine that will completely cure AIDS.  The Secretary's response was that it is in the works. Father Rick further added that there is current research being conducted to prevent the body from rejecting AIDS medications, which is common in those suffering from the disease. There was lots of good news at the session. Another question addressed the possibility of an AIDS infected person being granted a Visa to travel to the U.S. The Secretary's response was that it is possible if that person is traveling to seek treatment.