Posted by: Nadia Crow
Survival stories are making their way to some Haitian students studying at Andrews University. They're finally speaking with friends and family members in Haiti. But it's not all good news as students juggle their studies amidst the crisis.
"I thought I lost my entire family," said Haitian Student Montes Estinphil.
We first introduced you to Andrews University Haitian student Montes Estinphil last Wednesday. Sunday night he heard from his family.
"He said this is your brother in law. I was like what? He says yes this is me Avil," said Estinphil.
Some of the faces you see in these photos are Estinphil's friends and family that were found in the mountains outside of Port-au-Prince. But his nieces, the twins pictured here in red, have not been found.
"It was a shock. It was a big shock," said Estinphil.
Estinphil's friend and classmate Wilking Jean heard from his family as well.
"I haven't talked to my mom directly. My sisters and brothers called and say she is ok, they are ok," said Haitian Student Wilking Jean.
But tragic news came Wednesday morning. Jean's cousin, her five children and husband did not survive.
"It is something that's still killing me in my heart," said Jean.
Good news and bad news create an unusual atmosphere on campus.
"I'm rejoicing on one side and at the same time I'm kind of sad," said Estinphil.
"Yes, my family is ok, but yet thousands of people lost their lives. My mind is in Haiti and my body that's here," said Jean.
That's why Jean says he'll likely drop out this semester to return home. Estinphil will finish out the school year. Both are still waiting for more news from Haiti. And good news is met with this response.
"God is good and God saves us," said Estinphil.
Jean says he'll likely leave for Port-au-Prince in the coming weeks. He says he will act as a translator, a tour guide and whatever else he's needed to be. In his own words, he says "I don't have a problem putting my hands in the dirt to work."
