In March 2008, a small but mighty room changed everything for our clinic in Cazale.
For years, we had dreamed of opening a laboratory. Since beginning work in Haiti in 1994—and especially after moving into our current location in 2000—we saw firsthand how limited access to lab testing held us back from giving patients the full care they deserved. People had to travel 1.5 to 2 hours just to get basic lab work done, often making multiple trips to get results. We did our best with what we had, but we knew our community needed more.
That dream became reality thanks to a team of volunteers from ACWAM (Active Christians With A Mission) from Canada. In early 2008, the clinic owner had decided to build a second level and needed to construct a septic pit. That project gave us the space we needed to finally create a lab—one humble room built on top of that pit, finished with shelves and tables just in time for the ACWAM team to arrive in March. Two lab techs came to train our staff and help us set everything up.
Opening day was simple but full of joy. Staff, patients, and volunteers gathered together. We decorated with balloons and gave thanks to God for this new possibility. There was no big ceremony—just a shared sense of pride, hope, and determination.
At first, our lab was small. We could test for anemia, HIV, malaria, syphilis, pregnancy, and perform urine and women’s health screenings. With no funds to hire a dedicated lab tech, our nurses—including Carmelite, Magdala, Geslide, and Lori—all pitched in to help with testing using our first microscope and a few basic supplies. We were so proud to be able to offer even these few tests right here in Cazale.
Over the years, we’ve grown—thanks to donors, determination, and hard work. In 2017, a generous donor helped us expand the lab significantly. Today, we have a dedicated lab technician, more advanced equipment, and an inventory system to keep supplies stocked. Student interns pass through to learn, and our staff continue to grow their skills with ongoing training.
The result? Better, faster, more accurate care for our patients. We no longer have to guess—we can catch illnesses early, provide proper treatment, and save lives. Just recently, we helped a pregnant woman whose hemoglobin was dangerously low (3.8 g/dl). She received lifesaving transfusions and gave birth to a premature baby. The baby was later admitted to our Rescue Center with a fever (102.8) and low weight (1.9 kg). With lab testing, we were able to guide her care. Today, she’s gaining weight and thriving.
Our lab is open Tuesday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering affordable testing and results explained by providers who truly care. About 20% of our patients are seen at no charge, and those who can pay are happy to support our mission, knowing that even their small fee helps cover the cost of supplies. The community trusts us to provide quality care—no matter what.
From that small room in 2008 to the lab we have today, it’s been a journey of growth, faith, and compassion. And we’re not finished yet.
Thank you to every donor who gave a machine, funded supplies, paid a salary, or simply prayed for us. You’ve helped us build something that continues to make a difference—every single day.