Nery is a 16-month-old baby boy from Guatemala. He enjoys eating rice and beans, and playing with his sister. Nery's parents work hard to support their family. His father works as a day laborer, and his mother takes care of their household and weaves traditional Mayan textiles.
Nery was recently diagnosed with malnutrition, a condition that occurs from consuming too little protein, calories, and nutrients. In the short term, malnutrition means Nery has little energy to grow, and that his immune system is weak, leaving him vulnerable to diseases that further compromise his growth. He may also face long-term consequences of malnutrition, such as increased risk of chronic illness and a lowered IQ.
Concerned for his well-being, his mother took Nery to our medical partner, Wuqu' Kawoq, for treatment. Beginning June 22, Nery will receive 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 $492 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.
Nery’s mother says, “I am grateful to the program because I am very concerned about my child not gaining weight."