13-year-old Belizaire Mikerbens
Thirteen-year-old Belizaire Mikerbens is a bright and hardworking boy who enjoys farming and gardening. Living with his four siblings, mother, and father, Belizaire was leading an active and happy life. But when he suddenly began drinking excessive amounts of water and frequently urinating, his mother initially thought it was due to his love of eating fruit. It was his aunt who suspected something more serious and urged his mother to take him to the hospital.
Belizaire’s mother took him to Hôpital Immaculée Conception (HIC) in Les Cayes for a consultation. There, they discovered that his blood sugar level was dangerously high (400 mg/dl), confirming a diagnosis of diabetes. They were shocked by the news and couldn’t believe that diabetes could affect children like him.
The hospital decided to admit him, but within three days, his mother had already spent all the money she had. The high cost of medications left them feeling helpless, especially being so far from home. They didn’t know where to turn next, until a fellow patient at HIC told them about Infirmary St. Etienne (ISE), Hope for Haiti’s healthcare clinic.
Upon arriving at ISE, Belizaire was seen by a Hope for Haiti pediatrician. His blood sugar levels remained dangerously high, prompting the team to refer him to one of Hope for Haiti’s trusted medical partners for specialized care until he became stable and could be treated there. From that moment on, Belizaire never missed an appointment.
Thanks to the support of Hope for Haiti, Belizaire received life-saving medical treatment and diabetes education at no cost to his family.
“I received all this treatment without paying any money,” said Belizaire. “The medical staff was really patient, and they explained everything to me about diabetes—when and how to take insulin, how to control my blood sugar level, and how to eat. I also received a device to monitor my blood sugar, alcohol, insulin, and other medications. Thanks to the information I received at ISE, I now raise awareness among my friends at school and in the neighborhood on how to recognize the signs of diabetes.”
Patients line up to be seen at Hope for Haiti’s Infirmary St. Etienne (ISE) in Les Cayes, Haiti.
Belizaire’s story is an example of how access to healthcare can transform lives. Through Hope for Haiti’s support, he not only learned how to manage his condition but also became an advocate for diabetes awareness in his community.
At Hope for Haiti, we believe that no child should have to face a life-threatening illness without access to care. Stories like Belizaire’s motivate us to continue our mission of providing quality healthcare to children and families in Haiti. Your support helps ensure that children like Belizaire receive the treatment they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.
Want to help more children like Belizaire? Donate today and be a part of the change!
