A Renewed Perspective on the House of Hope

The time spent at the House of Hope was an incredible experience, truly one of the highlights of my second trip to Dominica.

The caregivers were extremely generous in sharing their lives and experiences with our group (myself, Aimee, Jessica, and Griffan).  The caregivers all expressed a sense of duty from Jesus to take care of these women that are unable to take care of themselves, that they are acting on behalf of Jesus.  They all have difficult days, but look to their deeply ingrained faith to see the positive effects that they are having on the women residing at the House of Hope.

The residents at the House of Hope were all the same as the last time I visited one year ago, and were just as positive and happy as ever.  Lydia was very helpful, and enjoyed dancing after lunch.  Marissa and Melissa were each so playful and really enjoyed interacting with us.  Darcy was so grateful to have our attention, and for the large purple flower that Aimee painted across from her bed on the wall. I learned so much from each woman today, mostly that it takes so very little to have such a large impact.  In that, I mean that just the simplest interaction with these beautiful women caused their personalities to shine wether they were happiest dancing, smiling, speaking, or laughing.  It is truly a testament to the hard work of everyone that takes care of them every day that allows these women flourish.

I learned today truly how far compassion can effect a human life.  The residents at the House of Hope are truly lucky to have the caregivers around them that feel so strongly for embracing those in need, and that our continued support and volunteer is needed to help that mission and vision remain possible.  That is truly what we can learn as pharmacists, to remain passionate and compassionate about what we do, always remembering that we are effecting human lives with every decision we make with our time and talents.

"Whatever you do to the least of my brothers, that you do unto me" Matthew 25:40
We painted this on the wall of the House of Hope today as a verse that illustrates what the House of Hope believes in.