Josefina is a 35-year-old woman from Guatemala. Five years ago, she learned that she has diabetes. Since the diagnosis, she and our medical partner’s team have worked hard to manage her condition.
Eight months ago, Josefina got married, and now she and her husband are expecting their first baby. The couple is thrilled and wants to do everything they can to ensure a healthy pregnancy and their future child’s well-being.
Because diabetes during pregnancy can be extremely dangerous, Josefina needs support to keep herself and her baby safe. High blood sugar during the first 13 weeks of pregnancy can lead to birth defects and increase the risk of miscarriage. Babies sometimes grow larger than normal in the womb and have a higher risk of obesity. Many diabetic patients who normally control their disease with medication may need to take insulin during pregnancy. If left untreated, diabetes can lead to early death or disability. If not monitored closely in pregnancy, diabetes can increase the risk of miscarriage and cause infants to be born with birth defects.
Every day, Josefina wakes up early to weave and sell the elaborate traditional shirts unique to her village. However, neither she nor her husband earns enough money to pay for the extensive monitoring and treatment Josefina needs during pregnancy.
$822 in Watsi funding will pay for Josefina to have the care she needs. Treatment begins on February 3, 2017. An ultrasound and basic lab work will allow her team to monitor her glucose levels and the baby’s growth. Josefina will receive medicine and meet with a diabetes nurse every month to check her blood glucose levels. A physician familiar with her case will monitor her throughout her pregnancy. Close monitoring will give Josefina her best opportunity to have a safe pregnancy and a healthy baby.
“My dream is that my baby’s birth goes well and without complications,” shares Josefina. Let’s help make that happen!