The events in Haiti have horrified the world, the images are heartbreaking and the tragedy overwhelming. In the midst of the horror, we’ve seen glimmers of hope and uplifting stories of survival and heroism. Rescue and relief teams from around the world have converged on this tiny island nation to do what they can to save lives and rebuild the country. The famous “Los Topos” (“The Moles”) of Mexico are one of the most elite earthquake rescue teams in the world, an organization created after the devastating earthquake in Mexico City in 1985. The group “Los Topos” is comprised of volunteers from all over Mexico who leave their day jobs at a moment’s notice to travel the world to assist in rescue efforts in disaster areas with their expertise in disaster relief and recovery. They travel on their own financial resources or from private donations and risk their lives to do all they can to assist in tragic circumstances. “Los Topos” have contributed to rescue efforts in 22 countries since 1985, and have never lost a member of their team. They are heroes in the true sense of the word, risking everything they have to help others in need. “Los Topos” have been in Haiti since January 14th and have rescued at least 15 people who were trapped under the rubble with the help of two rescue dogs, Rex and Sombra. Los Topos successfully rescued 69 year old Ena Zizi after eight days of being trapped, a moment of hope and joy in a terrible time.
Horacio Sanchez in Indonesia after the tsunami
Dolphin Discovery is very proud of one our own staff members, Horacio Sanchez, Health and Safety Manager for Grupo Discovery in Cancun, who departed for Haiti on January 22 with “Los Topos”. Horacio has been a member of “Los Topos” since 1999 and has contributed to rescue efforts in many countries affected by disaster. He has received official recognition for his work, being honored by the governments of Turkey, Taiwan, Salvador, India, and Indonesia and receiving many awards for his heroism. Horacio Sanchez is an expert in his field, trained in medical trauma in disaster situations, earthquake rescue and coordination of relief efforts. We at Dolphin Discovery wish Horacio all the best in Haiti, we know that he is part of a great team that will bring relief to the people of this devastated country. We thank Horacio for all his selfless efforts and we send our gratitude to all members of “Los Topos” for their valiant work around the world, please be safe and healthy in your journeys.
“Los Topos” rely on donations, if you wish to contribute to the team, please visit Los Topos website and do what you can to help.
“Los Topos” of Mexico in Indonesia after the tsunami