In a world where most of us live in fear with the genuine threat of international terrorism, anti-social behaviour issues and the financial meltdown that could potentially last for years to come, it is when natural disasters occur that makes us stop and think: ‘How lucky are we?’
In the late hours of Tuesday 12th January UK time, a powerful earthquake struck to country of Haiti. It measured 7.0 on the Richter scale, one of the most powerful of recent times and it was Haiti’s worst quake for almost two centuries. Buildings were shattered, hospitals collapsed, prisons crumbled and access roads cut off in one of the poorest countries in the North America area.
Predictions of 2million have been made homeless by the earthquake and the Prime Minister recently confirmed a prediction of 200,000 thought to have been killed. This is unofficial though, and with several aftershocks striking the region after the disaster and a fear of disease striking the thoughts of many, that figure could sadly significantly rise.
In a flash, news reporters across the globe covered the story so quickly. The devastation by the many video feeds and pictures of homeless people clearly suffering has stunned many – especially yours truly. Personally, I haven’t seen such trauma and pain from a natural disaster since the Asian Tsunami on Boxing Day 2004. Generations further back could maybe recall the horrific earthquakes that struck Mexico City in 1985 and Kobe, Japan in 1995.
In an instant, relief and aid were one of the most important items needed for the suffering. Like the Tsunami tragedy of five years ago, the world has opened its arms into doing what it can. Charities such as Oxfam, Unicef, the British Red Cross and many more have workers over in Haiti, doing all they can to support those who need the help the most. Today, it was revealed that donations from the UK have reached £46million, after another generous donation figure of £4million over the weekend. It is a staggering effort from the UK, considering we are meant to be in the midst of a recession that is still causing financial issues for many.
Last Thursday, Simon Cowell revealed he will be getting music stars from around the world to record a charity song, with all donations going to the earthquake appeal. This week, the likes of Kasabian, Florence & the Machine, Leona Lewis, JLS, Alexandra Burke, Rod Stewart, Cheryl Cole & Susan Boyle are set to record a version of R.E.M’s 1980’s hit ‘Everybody Hurts.’ The single is expected to make millions and storm the UK charts for the next few weeks. Across the globe in America, actor George Clooney and singer/rapper Wyclef Jean have already led a benefit concert on Saturday. Stars from Hollywood took personal calls for donations in a concert called ‘Hope for Haiti Now.’ It was streamed live to millions on the video-sharing site, YouTube. Once again, America has done its bit to help others who need it.
The capital of Haiti, Port-au-Prince has been the main base for reports to come in of tales of sorrow, woe and miraculous escapes. The villages of Jacmel and Petionville have also been severely hit or majorly affected, almost completely wiped out the map. Remarkably, eleven days after the earthquake, William Extantus was pulled out of the rubble from the remains of the Napoli Inn Hotel, alive. It is these stories that fulfil both a nation and a world’s hope that more can be found alive, however unlikely that is. Miracles are possible.
With the main prison collapsing in the quake, there have been concerns over riots in Haiti, which has had a history for political unrest. The hostile scenes broadcast on TV make the desperation for aid, such as basic utilities like water and food a necessity. Some are looting the remaining local shops still standing, in a desperate attempt to feed their families. Although this is morally wrong, it is quite understandable in these precarious circumstances. Former US president, Bill Clinton, worked for the UN over in Haiti has been worried about the amount of aid coming through. This has been a concern, but everyone is trying to do the best they can in a scenario, which for many is almost unimaginable.
Personally, I have been left shocked to the core by the events in Haiti; I have made a small donation myself to the earthquake appeal, because it is desperately needed to help those who are most unfortunate in this world. These people have done nothing wrong; they don’t deserve what has happened to them. Unfortunately, it is another case of ‘Mother Nature taking its course.’ My thoughts are with all the survivors of the disaster and those who have lost loved in such a sorrow catastrophe. It could take Haiti years, maybe even decades to rebuild from the shattered remains and it might not even recover. However, like the incredible story of William Extantus this weekend, we can only believe there can be more stories of relief and miracles to come from this shocking earthquake.
For more information and how to donate, visit www.google.co.uk and follow the link for more information.
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