Anderson is a three-month-old baby boy who lives with his mother, grandmother, and siblings in rural Guatemala.
Anderson was born a healthy baby, but because his mother cannot produce breast milk, he has become severely malnourished, a condition that occurs from consuming too little protein, calories, and nutrients. In the short term, malnutrition means Anderson has little energy to grow, and that his immune system is weak, leaving him vulnerable to diseases that could further compromise his growth. If left untreated, he may also face the long-term consequences of malnutrition, such as increased risk of chronic illness and a lowered IQ.
Concerned for his well-being, his mother took Anderson to our medical partner, Wuqu' Kawoq, for treatment. Beginning May 13, Anderson will receive formula to replace his mother's breast milk, micronutrients, and food supplementation, as well as regular growth monitoring. Community health workers will also teach his mother how to create a nutrient rich diet using limited resources. The $1,162 requested will cover all expenses of his continued treatment, allowing him to gain weight, strengthen his immune system, and catch up with other children his age.
Anderson’s mother says, “I'm looking forward to my son getting the formula and gaining weight. I am very worried about him.”