Last month, we at St. Damien Hospital came together as one family to celebrate two deeply meaningful occasions. On May 9 and May 12, 2025, we marked two days of reflection, recognition, and unity: the official launch of our 35th anniversary celebrations and International Nurses Day. These moments reminded us of our shared values—faith, gratitude, and unwavering commitment to those we serve. They gave us the opportunity to honor our history, thank those who care for our present, and look with hope toward the future.
May 9: A Mass to Celebrate 35 Years of History and Service
With a deeply moving religious ceremony, we began our 35th anniversary commemorations. From early morning, a large crowd—staff members, partners, friends of NPH, and longtime collaborators—gathered at the parish adorned in blue and white, the colors that define our identity.
Presided over by Father Rick Frechette, founder of St. Damien Hospital, the mass was a moment of gratitude and hope. One of the most touching highlights was when a little girl presented Father Rick with a tribute painting on behalf of the 35th anniversary committee—thanking him for his tireless commitment to the children of Haiti.
Executive Director Dr. Pascale Yola H. Gassant reflected on the hospital’s journey since its founding: the obstacles faced, the lives saved, and the mission carried forward with solidarity and compassion. She emphasized the need to continue standing together as we face new challenges in our service to Haiti’s most vulnerable.
This mass is just the first in a series of cultural events, workshops, and moments of reflection planned throughout the year to celebrate this remarkable milestone.i
May 12: A Tribute to Our Nurses – Guardians Day and Night
Three days later, we turned our attention to the heartbeat of our healthcare system—our nurses. On International Nurses Day, under the global theme “Our Nurses, Our Future – Caring for Nurses Strengthens Health Systems,” we celebrated the compassion and resilience of those who stand at the front lines of care.
The day included thematic presentations, professional exchanges, and heartfelt testimonials. It was a powerful opportunity to reflect on the nursing profession in Haiti—its challenges, its promise, and its invaluable contributions.
In their remarks, Dr. Gassant and Mrs. Carmitude Michel, Director of Nursing Services, paid tribute to the courage and daily sacrifice of our nurses. They reminded us how essential their work is, and why investing in and supporting this profession is vital to the future of healthcare in Haiti.
We are proud to share these moments with the wider NPH family. These two days were not just events—they were a reflection of our shared mission and the spirit that binds us together.
Thank you for being part of this journey.