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Stories of Ability

The faces of the network.

Documentary portraits and first-person accounts from across our community.

Rev. Pastor Nosé Poliard, Senior (Pastor Noon) — portraits from his ministry in Haiti.
Rev. Pastor Nosé Poliard, Senior — affectionately known as “Noon,” faithfully serving clients through on-site Bible study and pastoral care.

A life of faith and resilience

Meet Pastor Noon.

From the time he was a little boy, Rev. Pastor Nosé Poliard, Senior — affectionately called “Noon” by his late wife — carried a strength of character that could not be shaken by hardship. The nickname “Noon” was more than a term of endearment. It reflected who he was. Just like the hands of a clock standing perfectly straight at twelve o’clock, Noon was known as a man of uprightness, seriousness, discipline, and unwavering principles. He stood firm in his values, steady in his faith, and determined in his purpose no matter what life placed before him.

At only six years old, polio left him permanently paralyzed, changing the course of his life forever. Alongside the physical challenges came emotional pain. In a society where disability was often misunderstood, Noon endured mockery, harassment, discrimination, and cruel labels. People insulted him by calling him “Ti-palette,” comparing his weakened legs to the thin legs of a chicken. Many focused on what his body could not do instead of recognizing the greatness within him.

But Noon refused to allow ridicule to define his destiny.

Through resilience, faith, and the support of compassionate people who believed in his abilities, he transformed obstacles into opportunities. A missionary saw his potential and provided him with training in bookkeeping, opening the door for a meaningful professional career. Noon went on to serve Beraca Hospital faithfully for his entire life, becoming a respected professional known for integrity, commitment, and excellence.

While building his career, Noon also nurtured a deep love for God. He studied diligently through Bolosse Bible School and was eventually ordained as a pastor. Though physically limited, his spiritual strength touched countless lives. He became a devoted shepherd to both his family and his church community, proving that true leadership does not depend on physical ability, but on compassion, wisdom, and faithfulness.

Today, because of age and increasing mobility challenges, Pastor Noon can no longer travel through heavy traffic as he once did. Yet his calling to serve remains alive. He has now been given the opportunity to minister directly to individuals enrolled in community programs — many of whom are unable to attend church due to illness, disability, age, or hardship. Through onsite visits, Bible teaching, prayer, and encouragement, Pastor Noon continues bringing hope to people who often feel isolated and forgotten.

For these individuals, Pastor Noon is more than a pastor. He is living proof that limitations do not cancel purpose. The same man who once endured humiliation and exclusion now stands as a source of dignity, healing, and spiritual encouragement for others.

His life powerfully demonstrates the importance of support, inclusion, and compassion. When someone is given opportunity instead of rejection, encouragement instead of discrimination, lives can flourish beyond expectation. Pastor Noon’s journey shows that even those society may overlook can become pillars of strength within their communities.

Today, his story continues to inspire all who meet him. Like the straight and steady hands of a clock at noon, Pastor Noon remains upright, faithful, and unwavering — a testimony of perseverance, service, and hope. Supporting leaders like him means investing in humanity, restoring dignity, and ensuring that vulnerable individuals receive not only care, but also love, encouragement, and spiritual guidance.

Photo coming soon
Micaëlle — a courageous 13-year-old living with cerebral palsy in Haiti.

A story of courage and faith

Meet Micaëlle.

Meet Micaëlle, a courageous and beautiful 13-year-old girl who has been living with cerebral palsy since the day she was born.

Her condition was caused by a tragic medical malpractice incident during delivery, resulting in severe neurological and psychomotor disabilities that have deeply impacted her daily life. Micaëlle does not walk, does not speak, cannot hear properly, and is also blind. Every aspect of her life depends on the constant care, love, and support of her family. Yet despite the immense challenges she faces, Micaëlle continues to be a source of resilience, strength, and inspiration to everyone around her.

For many years, her parents carried their pain in silence. In Haiti, families of children living with disabilities often face stigma, judgment, and isolation. Many are afraid to speak openly, fearing rejection from society or being blamed for circumstances beyond their control. But silence does not bring healing, support, or change.

As both a devoted mother and a woman of faith, Micaëlle's mother made the courageous decision to speak out — not only for her daughter, but for countless other children with disabilities who deserve dignity, compassion, care, and opportunity. In their search for hope and support, the family reached out to Christian Ability Network (Abilnet).

For the past 13 years, Micaëlle's family has done everything within their limited means to provide for her daily care, comfort, and therapy needs. Every day requires extraordinary love and sacrifice. From carrying her from place to place, assisting with feeding and hygiene, to seeking medical attention and rehabilitation, her parents have carried an emotional and financial burden that few can truly understand.

Sadly, Haiti offers almost no specialized services for children living with cerebral palsy. Rehabilitation centers are extremely limited, and essential therapy equipment, mobility devices, sensory support, and specialized medical care are often inaccessible or unaffordable for families already struggling to survive.

Through the support of Abilnet and compassionate donors, the family has been able to raise $1,800 toward a goal of $50,000 for Micaëlle's long-term care, rehabilitation, adaptive equipment, medical support, and specialized therapies. While this assistance brought encouragement and temporary relief, the need remains urgent and overwhelming. Micaëlle is still waiting for consistent therapy, proper rehabilitation support, specialized equipment, and the medical care that could significantly improve her comfort, quality of life, and future opportunities.

Behind every disability is a child with dreams, emotions, and value. Micaëlle is not defined by her condition. She is a precious young girl deserving of love, inclusion, dignity, care, and the opportunity to experience joy like every other child.

Her story is a powerful reminder that families facing disability should never have to struggle alone. With compassion, community support, and access to proper care, children like Micaëlle can thrive far beyond the limitations imposed by poverty and circumstance.

Today, your support can help bring hope where there has been exhaustion, encouragement where there has been isolation, and practical assistance where the need is overwhelming. By standing with Micaëlle and her family, you become part of a mission that restores dignity, strengthens families, and reminds vulnerable children that they are seen, valued, and deeply loved.