Comments about ‘LDS relief: Mormon doctors from Utah set up new clinic in Haiti’

As an LDS missionary in Haiti 20 years ago, I had always wished that the church would send in doctors to alleviate the physical pain and suffering of Haitians. I saw physical ailments during my time there that I've never seen since. Why wait until a catastrophe to send in doctors? It seems to me like there are plenty of doctors in the church who could volunteer and plenty of money to always help out in a such a dire situation.

I think the answer to the former missionary is obvious, there is seemingly no limit to the needs of Haiti and that only an extraordinary event such as the earthquake could summon such a response. However, there have been many doctors (LDS and otherwise) who spend a great deal of time there. The equipment needs are very scant and I believe that this disaster will finally lead to having sufficient equipment and supplies to warrant more Doctors. There is no question that many people have wanted to go there. I've been back a few times (I'm a former missionary too going back 27 years now) and I know that the ultimate answer is that one day Haitians will be able to help Haitians. Look at the missionaries now serving in Haiti. They're all Haitian. One day, I think the members will be the doctors and professionals in Haiti. As the first LDS Mission President told me when he first arrived in Haiti, the only thing that can help Haiti is the gospel. I thought he meant spiritually, but I think he also was speaking fundamentally including financially and medically.