Pella Christian Junior Bianca Kanis traveled with PC’s Winterim trip to Pignon, Haiti. The group consisted of 10 students, 5 teachers, 1 principal and Lucia Van Maanen. This is their first time to Haiti and serving with MH4H.

When Bianca Kanis traveled to Haiti, it wasn’t her first time abroad. Adopted at age five from Romania, Kanis understood experiencing a third world country.

“I had a lot of fear and anxiety about going because I knew first-hand what kind of fear and desperation occurs in these places,” Kanis said.

What happened on her trip was far from desperation, however.

Relying on the support of group leader Lucia Van Maanen, Kanis found the trip to be a healing experience.

“She took me under her wing and encouraged me to be strong. I think it was God’s way of telling me that He would be with me no matter where I go. I was able to conquer that fear and anxiety.”

Her experience was not devoid of hardships, however.

Kanis felt a calling especially at the hospital, spending time in fellowship with the patients.

While the rest of the group had left for the day, Kanis stayed at the small hospital by herself to hold the hands of the sick.

“It was powerful to see these patients in absolute weakness yet smiling while praying and singing at their bedside.”
While singing with one man, she got up to leave. He pulled her back, wanting more time to sing and pray for 30 more minutes. Although there was a language barrier, she could tell it meant so much for her to be there.

She later heard loud shrieks and wails, frightened, Kanis ran into the narrow hallway. Just as she entered, a body and grieving family were exiting.
“It was so traumatizing. It was emotional. But I went back. Lucia was amazing and helped me.”

Under the guidance of prayer, Kanis hopes to return someday soon.

“It’s just so hard to explain sometimes. I wish the pictures were scratch and smell. You have to be there.”