Haitian Creole Language

Creole, or Kreyòl, is the language spoken by about 80% of the Haitian population. Along with French, it is one of Haiti's two official languages. It is the most widely spoken creole language in the world. Translators are in high demand during this crisis, and priority is given to medical volunteers with a background in Creole or French.

Here is a list of some common Creole words and phrases that Dr. Fitzgerald took with him to Haiti:
Bonjou - Good morning
Bonswa - Good afternoon
Komoan ou yet? - How are you?
N'ap boule - Good
Wi - Yes
Non - No
Mesi - Thank you
Merite - You're welcome
Tout bagay anfoam? - Is everything OK?
Atansyon! - Watch out!
Kote Ii ou fe mal? - Where does it hurt you?
Nou bezwen yon dokte - We need a doctor
Nou bezwen pansman - We need bandages
Kisa ki rive ou? - What happened to you?
Kisa ou bezwen - What do you need?

For more information about the Haitian Creole language, please click here.

Photo of Dr. Vanek in Surgery

Dr. Vanek performs limb salvage surgery at the Haiti Community Hospital on January 21 at 10:21 pm. Photo courtesy of Yan from Team Sweden.