CEO update following fuel tanker blast in Cap-Haïtien

On behalf of everyone at our partner hospital, HCBH, in Haiti, we'd like to thank you for your thoughts and prayers following the devastating fuel tanker explosion in Cap-Haïtien earlier this week, the city where our partner hospital is based.

It has been reported that the vehicle was involved in an accident and the victims had been trying to gather leaking fuel when it ignited. Over 60 people have been killed, with many more injured and the death toll is expected to rise. Local hospitals have been overwhelmed by those injured in the blast and Prime Minister Ariel Henry said the entire Caribbean nation was grieving after the accident, declaring three days of mourning.

Yesterday, the emergency department (ER) at HCBH received between 15 - 20 individuals with severe burns.

Rob, one of our team on the ground in Haiti reported to myself; "The hospital team mobilised well and took the strain. All the available surgeons and Doctors came in and any free medic was working in the ER. There were patients having burns treated in corridors, on the porch, outside, in a vehicle. Everywhere, Everyone worked very hard."

Some of these patients have now been referred to other facilities and others will remain at HCBH for long term care.

We ask you, our dear friends and family of HHA, to please keep Haiti and her people, as well as our staff and volunteers at HCBH in your prayers, that they remain strong in the face of this challenge, when resources are already stretched.

With love and thanks,

Carwyn and the HHA team