Subscribe to RSSTremors, help and thirst
January 20, 2009. This morning, at about “don’t wake me up yet” [6:03am] time, we jumped out of our beds, heart racing. We’ve felt quite a few tremors since we arrived, but this one was particularly strong.
We’ve been sleeping on the Canadian Embassy’s roof, so we were safe. Some journalists had the reflex to run inside to get their cameras out of the building. I was just trying to guess how the roof slab we were standing on would surf downstairs if the building was to collapse. I also said goodbye to the idea of finding a hotel to have a shower and a cold beer in the next few days; in order to be safe we have to keep sleeping outside.
As I left Canadian soil that morning, I saw Stanley (my guide from last week) waiting for me in front of the building. He had vanished for a few days, and I was glad to see him again. Not for long though: Stefan would steal him from me later today . Stanley wanted to go to Carrefour, where a food distribution went wrong, and where people reportedly ended up being beaten by soldiers wearing blue helmets.
Once we got there, I learned that it all happened yesterday and things where too vague to report. I found the people really desperate in that camp; one woman didn’t have anything to drink for two days.
It is really difficult for us now to interview and film people. As soon as we bring out the camera we get overwhelmed by the desperate crowds.
Here are some stills of the town as I crossed it; it seemed pretty calm.
I came across a rescue team working on a pile rubble where they think someone is still alive. It will be a miracle if they succeed.
Another journalist told me that he saw a lot of looting and police activity. I didn’t see any, but this place is big.
As we kept going, we came across Red Cross trucks with volunteers distributing bedding, tarps, hygiene kits and cooking kits. What a nice sight!
Many camps are still waiting for help though. People are so thirsty, I hope clean water comes soon. Stefan just saw the U.S marines drop water and food by helicopter.
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4 Comments
2010-01-21
16:49:25
I've been following the news in the mainstream papers and on TV. Your first hand accounts and photos help put an individual perspective on what people are trying to cope with. I can't imagine what it is like to experience such a catastrophe or even view it close at hand.
2010-01-22
02:09:00
Sitting in Canada this past 8 days I cry for them all..helpless to the core, the UN needs true reform.
I understand there was is 1400 flight slots waiting and 125 plus flights per day..could explain SOME delays...but babies and people dying within WALKING distance of food, supplies..MAD as hell
Big aid groups..red tape..people are sending money by the ton..everywhere. Lot that did...they need crutches by the ship load..Canada in Jacmel trying to find people who report from their...ones that are not government..So many people want to help..many are unable to in person and this will not be one soon forgotten by Canada...millions around the country are raising funds everywhere are thinking months from now as well...Thanks to all there who are helping as best they can unreal horrors..implanted because we do need to see for ourselves and not turn away now or ever again...deep depression while we live free watch the delays, the reports witness the untold shame of some who use politics, greed while so many suffer..and remain helpless to act as we want
Sorry....Thank you again for stories and pictures
The babies ...so many children....our hearts break for them all
2010-01-22
09:55:44
Nic
Your stamina is unwavering. Hemingway could not have been more compassionate in his reporting.
Are they getting in more heavy equipment to dig out the collapsed buildings? Take care and be SAFE!
2010-01-26
22:42:38
I saw Nico's video clip on CBC TV on Jan. 26 for the first time. Keep up the great work and i'll keep the other news agencies here, there and everywhere up to date with your latest postings.