At the Wrong Place, at the Wrong Time: Etienne's Story of Survival and Compassion

Meet Etienne, a 48-year old migrant farm worker whose story is a powerful reminder of how quickly life can change. After completing a seasonal job in the Dominican Republic, he returned home hoping to rest and reconnect with his family before the next season.

Caught unexpectedly in a violent incident, Etienne suffered severe machete wounds to his head and arm. He had simply been in the wrong place at the wrong time.

During Easter week, tensions can run high here in Haiti and something as simple as wearing a certain color can carry unintended meaning. During this period, "rara" bands take to the streets, blending cultural traditions with spiritual practices that some associate with the evocation of spirits and pilgrimages to sacred sites. In such a charged atmosphere, misunderstandings can escalate quickly, and tragically, Etienne became a victim of that reality.

Good Samaritans rushed him to the hospital, and his daughter soon arrived to support him. What followed was a long and difficult medical journey. Multiple surgeries were required to save his life and stabilize his injuries. However, like many patients in vulnerable situations, Etienne’s limited savings were quickly exhausted.

There were moments when his situation felt even more dire, when he could not even afford food during his hospital stay. Yet, in the midst of hardship, compassion emerged. Other patients, facing challenges themselves, shared their meals with him. Their kindness became a lifeline, a quiet but powerful expression of solidarity.

When all seemed uncertain, Etienne was able to benefit from the hospital’s Poor Fund, which covered his remaining medical expenses. This support ensured that he received the critical care he needed. Without it, he believes he would have been turned away elsewhere due to his inability to pay.

As we reflect on Etienne’s story during this Holy Week, it invites us into a deeper awareness. While many gather to celebrate the death and resurrection of our Savior, others are engaged in traditions that reflect a different spiritual path. In this contrast, we are reminded not only of the hope we hold, but also of the importance of compassion, prayer, and outreach. We pray that all may come to know Christ—the One who conquered death and offers true life.

Etienne's journey is one of survival, community, and grace. It is a reminder that even in the darkest moments, kindness, faith, and timely support can change the course of a life.

And as we celebrate the death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior this week, we hold fast to this truth: our Redeemer lives. No matter how unexpected the trial, there is always hope in Him. Through the risen Christ, every story—no matter how painful—can be redeemed, restored, and filled with new life. This is the message shared with patients at CMB.

You can help bring hope to the broken today by making a donation designated to CMB's Poor Fund.