He had hoped to go last weekend, but he couldn't get clearance.
But Dalembert headed there Tuesday with a group from Project MediShare, a Miami-based group of doctors that has been involved in Haiti since 1994. Dalembert is expected back in time for the Sixers' game tonight against the Portland Trail Blazers at the Wachovia Center.
Dalembert did not travel back from Minnesota with the team following the Sixers' 108-103 overtime loss Monday, and he was excused from practice Tuesday. Dalembert said he plans to go back to Haiti on other occasions, but does not intend to miss any games.
Dalembert was deeply affected by the destruction and despair. He has several friends and family members there, including his father, brother, sister and two uncles. Dalembert said his immediate family is safe, and that he would like to bring his brother and sister back with him.
Dalembert has already pledged $100,000 to the relief effort. He also matched the $30,000 raised by UNICEF at the Sixers' game last Friday vs. Sacramento.
In addition, Dalembert went on several different national news shows to raise awareness about the disaster in his homeland and ask for donations. He also filmed a public service announcement that was played at recent Sixers games.
But Dalembert had always wanted to do more than pledge and raise money. He wanted to go and help out personally in whatever way he could.
"It's easy to just give money and send stuff," Dalembert said last week. "When the people see me -- some of them never had TVs and never seen me -- they recognize me. It's the least I can do."
Project MediShare has been involved with helping Haitians since 1994 when Dr. Barth Green and Dr. Arthur Fournier, both affiliated with the University of Miami, led a medical mission to see how the university might help conditions there.
Former NBA star Alonzo Mourning is also affiliated with the group, and Dalembert has done work with the organization before.
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