Pocono News Section

Pocono Doctor Prepares for Mission Trip to Haiti

Pocono Doctor Prepares for Mission Trip to Haiti - Thursday, January 21, 2010 at 3:49PM EST

Reported by: Laurie Monteforte
Thursday, Jan 21, 2010 @ 03:49pm EST
EAST STROUDSBURG, MONROE COUNTY - Doctor Gervais Charles was born in Haiti and moved to the United States when he was twelve. He has visited his home country on mission trips 17 times. When his wife told him about the earthquake he couldn't believe it. He called it, "Stunning [and] devastating."

For two days he didn't know whether his brother was dead or alive. He recalled, "It's tough to think that Oh God I hope this guy is not under the rubble."

His brother and the rest of his family were found safe but he saw many others were not. He explained, "People being pulled up from rubble bleeding or maimed or dead - it was a horrible sight to see."

So the doctor is planning a medical mission trip. He was planning on a trip this summer but in light of the earthquake he knew he had to get there sooner so he's leaving next week.

Pocono Medical Center Physician Assistant and Trauma Surgeon Lisa Williams said, "I can't think of anything more worthwhile." She will join Doctor Charles, along with several other doctors and surgeons, on the trip. She has already been on two Haiti mission trips. She said, "Even when there wasn't this type of catastrophe the need there was almost overwhelming."

The volunteers are going as part of the Gaskov Clerge Foundation. It's named after the doctor's childhood friend who died of cancer. They hope to carry on his legacy of helping others.

While they know they can't help everyone they hope to make a difference.

The doctor is hosting a fundraiser to support his trip. It's a buffet dinner at Pangea restaurant in Swiftwater. It's from 7p. m. to 10 p. m. Thursday January 28.

For reservations call (570) 476-3316. To donate visit .