Edwin is a three-month-old baby from Guatemala and the second child in his family. His mother works at home to take care of the family, and his father is a day laborer.
Edwin’s mother cannot produce breastmilk, so Edwin is underweight and small for his age. As a result, he often cries from hunger, and his mother uses the only substance she can afford––warm sugar water––to soothe him. This limited diet is insufficient and has dangerous implications for Edwin’s health.
Lactation failure can lead to starvation and dehydration. It can also provoke electrolyte imbalances that cause seizures. Brain development occurring during this delicate time is compromised, and Edwin is at risk of long-term damage.
Fortunately, lactation failure is easy to treat. By supplying Edwin with formula and his mother with health education, our medical partner can provide Edwin with the calories he needs to grow and thrive. One-on-one education with Edwin’s mother will teach her how to provide a nutritious, inexpensive diet for her son. She will also learn to check for signs of malnutrition and other illnesses. Edwin’s immune system will strengthen, and he will grow up to be a healthy, energetic baby.
However, due to the family’s lack of resources, they cannot afford their son’s treatment. For this reason, our medical partner, Wuqu’ Kawoq, is requesting $1,162 to fund the treatment, which is scheduled to start on February 27.
“I am very worried about my son, and I hope that he can get better soon, for I dream for him to grow up well, study hard, and one day be a professional,” says Edwin’s mother.
