19/10/2017
Today marks one month since the passing of Category 5 Hurricane Maria which destroyed my island Dominica, overnight. The damage was catastrophic. Many people lost everything, some lost family members and friends, everyone has been scarred for life. Living here wasn't easy while I was still on island (I've made it to University now, a little late thanks to the Hurricane, but I had a strong team who supported and helped me in all ways possible) and I know that it's still quite difficult. We lost everything in one day, and it's going to take a long time to rebuild and get our lives back to a sense of normalcy. As a photographer, you'd probably expect I have hundreds of photos from the season, but I don't. There are times when you just can't function in your usual capacity, and as I write this and recall that night, the stories I heard in the days following, the faces I passed on the road, the people begging soldiers for one small bottle of water, I can feel the tears rising. But I am strong, I am a Dominican, we are Dominica Strong and we WILL rise again. I have faith, I believe in us.
P.S. I may post a few video clips and photos in the weeks to come from my time in Dominica, post-Maria. Also expect photos from Uni. If you're still reading this then follow .m on Instagram for more frequent updates!
