“Bayron is an only child. He loves to sing and imitate the tune when his mother sings, even if he cannot yet say the words,” shares our medical partner, Wuqu’ Kawoq (WK). Bayron is a 16-month-old baby from Guatemala with acute malnutrition. “Bayron is far below the average weight and height for his age. The long term effects of malnutrition include increased risk of chronic diseases, and low economic productivity,” WK reports. Because most children are malnourished in the town where Bayron lives, his mother did not realize he was malnourished until WK visited him. This is due in part to how malnutrition is normalized in Guatemala. There are few examples of how a healthy child grows and develops, so it is difficult for parents to recognize the warning signs." $535 will fund the treatment Bayron needs to address his malnutrition. “This treatment will supply Baryon with the growth monitoring, micronutrient and food supplementation, and medication for him to recoup some of the weight and height he has lost, strengthen his immune system, and increase his overall caloric intake.” In addition, Bayron’s parents will receive intensive nutrition education so that they can continue to care for him throughout his childhood. “Without intervention his immune system will weaken and his energy will decline,” WK continues. “Intervention now will prevent the future devastating effects of malnutrition, and give Bayron the chance to live a healthy productive life.” This comprehensive health plan will ensure that Bayron and his family are placed on a successful path for the future.