Rosa is a one-month-old girl from Guatemala. Since her birth, her mother has had difficulty producing breastmilk. As a result, Rosa is not growing and is losing weight. This limited diet is insufficient and has dangerous implications for Rosa’s health. Lactation failure can lead to starvation and dehydration. It can also compromise brain development, putting Rosa at risk of long-term damage. Fortunately, Rosa began treatment for lactation failure on December 20.
Rosa lives with her parents and siblings in rural Guatemala. She has one older brother and two twin sisters. Her parents hope that she will study hard in school and become a nurse.
Rosa’s father works in agriculture, and her mother manages the household. The family’s income is small and inconsistent. They cannot afford this treatment, so our medical partner is requesting $1,107 in funding.
Rosa’s treatment will be simple and effective. She will receive formula, which will give her the protein, calories, and nutrients she needs to grow and develop. Her mother will receive in-home nutrition education, so she will learn low-cost ways to prevent future cases of malnutrition. Rosa’s immune system will strengthen, and she will grow up to be a healthy, energetic baby.
“I’ve been worried since my daughter’s birth because I don’t have breast milk to give my daughter, and she is losing weight,” says Rosa’s mother. “I want to see my daughter grow well so she does not get sick.”