Anderson is eleven months old and has malnutrition. He lives with his family in rural Guatemala. He likes to eat papaya and play cars and is learning to stand up on his own.
In the short term, malnutrition means Anderson has little energy to grow and that his immune system is weak. If Anderson does not receive treatment, he will also face malnutrition’s long-term consequences, such as increased risk of chronic diseases, low IQ, and higher likelihood of dropping out of school. While malnutrition can have devastating effects, it is also very treatable. Growth monitoring, micronutrients and food supplementation will help Anderson recover. He will begin treatment on February 16.
While Anderson’s mother cares deeply for her son and is eager to keep learning about nutrition, she cannot afford Anderson’s care. Our medical partner, Wuqu’ Kawoq, is requesting $437 to fund his treatment.
During treatment, Anderson will gain weight and grow taller to catch up with other children his age, and his immune system will grow stronger with the increased caloric intake.