Juan is just one month old and is already malnourished. His mother cannot produce breastmilk due to lactational failure, and she does not have another means of feeding her son.
Lactational failure has dangerous implications for Juan’s health. It can lead to starvation and dehydration and can also provoke electrolyte imbalances that cause seizures. Brain development occurring during this delicate time is compromised, and the baby is at risk of long-term developmental issues.
Juan lives with his family in Guatemala’s rural highlands. His mother is a single woman whose only source of income is weaving and selling traditional Mayan textiles. Unfortunately, she does not earn enough money to support her two children and her mother, with whom she lives. Juan’s mother is very worried about him. She fears that he will not develop well, but she cannot afford to purchase expensive formula.
Lactational failure, while dangerous, is easy to treat. With formula, Juan will receive the calories he needs to grow and thrive. One-on-one education for Juan’s mother will teach her how to provide a nutritious, inexpensive diet for her son. She will also learn to check for signs of malnutrition and other illness. Juan’s immune system will strengthen, and he will grow up to be a healthy, energetic baby.
Watsi’s medical partner, Wuqu’ Kawoq, requests $1,162 to pay for formula, micronutrient supplementation, water filters, two nutritional consultations, and six visits with a community health worker. Treatment for Juan begins on May 25.
“I am very grateful because this will be of such great benefit to my son,” shares Juan’s mother.