Edwin is a 14-month-old baby from the rural highlands of Guatemala. He enjoys playing with his favorite toy ball and snacking on bananas. Edwin’s father works as a day laborer, and his mother weaves and sells traditional Mayan textiles.
Edwin is experiencing symptoms of malnutrition, a dangerous condition that results from consuming too few calories and nutrients. In the short term, this means that Edwin has little energy to grow, and he also gets sick more often than other children. The long-term consequences of malnutrition include increased risk of chronic diseases and delayed development.
While malnutrition can have devastating effects, it is also very treatable. Our medical partner, Wuqu’ Kawoq, is asking for $492 to fund treatment for Edwin. On June 22, Edwin will begin routine growth monitoring and nutrient supplementation. Local health workers will also teach Edwin’s mother about nutrition. These interventions will ensure Edwin grows up strong and healthy.
Edwin’s mother says, “I am grateful to enter in to the program. I hope that with this treatment my son will get better and be a more healthy child.”