Konbit Sante wants to express our deep gratitude and appreciation to Edwidge Danticat for honoring us with her visit and presentation at our 10th Anniversary Celebration event on July 22nd. As many people know, Edwidge is widely acknowledged as the leading Haitian-American author in America today. We were very pleased to have her share poignant readings from her National Book Critics Award winning book "Brother, I am Dying" about her own life experiences as a person who spent her early youth in Haiti, and eventually followed her family to the US. Her reflections, readings, and responses to audience questions gave us all a deeper understanding of both the Haitian reality and the immigrant experience. She reaffirmed the importance of mutual understanding and respect, particularly relevant for Konbit Sante as we work together with Haitians and all other partners in improving health care in Haiti. Edwidge stayed long after the event to talk with attendees and sign copies of her books. If you were not able to join us at the event, you can hear a brief interview with her on WCSH Channel 6.

We were also pleased to have in attendance, the newly confirmed US ambassador to Haiti and Maine resident, Pamela White. Ambassador White was clearly moved by Edwidge's readings and gave her an invitation to visit her in her new quarters in Haiti.