Emely is a nine-month-old baby living with her parents and older siblings in a small plantation community in Guatemala. Her father works in the fields while her mother prepares food for the family and workers. Our medical partner, Wuqu’ Kawoq (WK), tells us that Emely can sit up by herself, and she plays with her rattle, smiling when people talk to her.
Unfortunately, due to their income, Emely’s parents are unable to provide her with basic sustenance and she goes days without fruits, vegetables, or eggs. Thus, Emely was diagnosed with acute malnutrition. She is far below a normal height and weight–nearly three standard deviations below the normal measurements for her age. Her acute malnutrition has also weakened her immune system, and she has sustained frequent diarrhea, coughs, and fevers. When she does get sick, she loses her appetite and stops eating. “I hope that my daughter will stop getting sick as often, and will be happy and healthy,” shares Emely’s mother.
WK says that for $512 Emely will receive the treatment she needs to resolve her malnutrition. This cost covers growth monitoring visits, food supplements, and medication to help her gain weight and develop properly. This treatment will also strengthen her immune system, increase her overall caloric intake, and provide her with more energy to play and learn. Her parents will also receive nutritional education to help them optimize the diet she and her siblings need.
Following her treatment, Emely should make a full recovery, rebuild her immune system, and return to proper development. “I appreciate the support that my daughter will receive due to Watsi donations,” Emely’s mother says, “I have hope that she will recover and be okay.”