Helber is a six-month-old baby boy from Guatemala. He is the sixth child in his family. He loves to play with his toy rattle, and eat his favorite food, eggs. Helber's father supports their family by working as a day laborer, while his mother looks after the household.
Helber was recently diagnosed with malnutrition, a condition that occurs from consuming too little protein, calories, and nutrients. In the short term, malnutrition means Helber 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 Helber to our medical partner, Wuqu' Kawoq, for treatment. Beginning June 8, Helber 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.
Helber's parents are grateful for all of the donors' support!