“Jesica loves to play with stuffed animals,” says our medical partner, Wuqu’ Kawoq (WK). “She has one that was given to her by her mother that she likes the best.” This 14-month-old baby girl lives with her parents and older brother in a rural village in Guatemala.
Jesica is acutely malnourished. With a nutrient-poor diet, Jesica is below the average height and weight for her age. “Jesica is showing signs of developmental delays–at 14 months, she still cannot say one word,” WK explains. “Although she cannot talk yet, Jessica likes to imitate her mother singing with little sounds. She will even move her hands to ‘dance’ to the music.”
“Her energy is low and without intervention she will be at risk for the long-term effects of malnutrition,” continues WK. “She is frequently ill and her parents do not have the money to afford any sort of medical care.”
Due to limited access to education and healthy food, acute malnutrition is a prevalent issue in Guatemala. 86% of malnutrition cases in Guatemala involve patients living in rural villages, such as Jesica’s.
For $512, Jesica will receive three months of nutritional therapy. Micronutrient-rich food supplements will be added to her diet in order to boost her nutrition levels. To protect her against infection during her treatment, doctors will also provide her with deworming medication.
As education is crucial to preventing malnutrition, Jesica’s mother will participate in an intensive nutrition course to gain the skills and confidence to care for the nutritional needs of both Jesica and her brother.
“We anticipate over time Jesica’s immune system will improve and we will see great positive changes in her overall health and energy,” WK concludes.
Jesica’s mother shares, “We are so thankful for the support you want to give us, and are so grateful for the food you want to give our family. With your help I know my Jesica will recover soon.”