Cesar is a one-year-old boy who lives in Guatemala with his mother, father and eight siblings. To support all of his children, Cesar’s father spends his days farming while Cesar’s mother cares for the family and weaves blouses.
“Cesar has suffered from a chronic respiratory illness since he was born, and has been to the government health center several times,” reports our medical partner, Wuqu’ Kawoq (WK). “The center told his mother that Cesar was malnourished but did not offer her any support to deal with the diagnosis.”
As a result of his malnutrition, Cesar has a weakened immune system that fuels illness—often causing him to come down with the flu or a throat infection. Cesar is also at a very low height and weight for his age, indicating that his lack of nutrition is indeed having a detrimental impact on his growth and development.
Without intervention, malnutrition can have serious consequences for Cesar’s health. His immune system will weaken, putting him at risk for illness and infection, and he will begin to miss major developmental milestones. This could lead to difficulty participating in school as the illness and exhaustion resulting from malnutrition often make it difficult to concentrate.
Cesar’s mother does not know what steps to take to help her son, nor does the family have the funds to afford treatment.
With $535 in Watsi funding, Cesar and his family will receive intensive nutritional supplements and education. “Cesar will receive doctor visits and micronutrient and food supplementation,” explains WK. “Growth monitoring will also allow us to follow his progress and adjust his treatment plan accordingly.”
“This treatment will increase Cesar’s ability to grow physically and mentally, as well as strengthen his immune system for years to come,” WK reports. Cesar’s mother will also receive the nutritional education necessary to make healthful choices for Cesar and his siblings in the future.
This treatment will have a positive impact on Cesar’s entire family. “It is a huge help for Cesar because we have such scarce resources. I am so grateful,” his mother remarks.