My name is Carmélite, and I’ve been working at RHFH since 2004. Today, I want to share the story of a patient who deeply touched me.

In December 2019, on our last workday before the holidays, a woman named Marie-Yolene arrived at the clinic. Although we weren’t planning to take more patients, her condition was so serious we couldn’t turn her away. She was weak, coughing non-stop, and had brought her baby, who was in even worse shape. Sadly, despite our efforts, the baby passed away that same day.

Marie-Yolene was gravely ill too. As we prepared to leave for the day, the staff gathered to pray for her. By God’s grace, she survived that night. We contacted her mother and arranged for a tuberculosis screening, which confirmed the disease.

We immediately started her six-month treatment. Back then, I was in charge of getting medication from Croix-des-Bouquets, which was already becoming unsafe due to armed gangs. I often traveled to her home to collect samples and ensure her progress. RHFH covered all her medical costs, and though her chances seemed slim, she followed the treatment faithfully. After six months, she was completely healed.

We didn’t hear from her for a while, but one day, I met her in when I went to the market. She was healthy, glowing, and full of joy. She told me she had become a Christian, met a man at church, and was planning her wedding. She even came to the clinic to invite the staff!

After her wedding, Marie-Yolene became pregnant and attended her prenatal care at the clinic. In 2022, she gave birth to a healthy baby.

This story reminds me why I love my job—helping someone go from being critically ill to living a joyful, healthy life. It’s moments like these that bring meaning and joy to my work.