Meet Josias, a 10-month-old baby boy from Guatemala with acute malnutrition. According to our medical partner, Wuqu’ Kawoq (WK), “Josias is far below the average height for his age and weight for his age. He is slow to develop milestones and at 10 months he cannot sit by himself, say any words at all, crawl or walk.”
“Josias has low energy and his family just simply does not have enough money to buy him nutrient-rich food,” WK adds. “Without intervention his weight and height will continue to fall away from the growth curve and he will be at risk of the long term effects of malnutrition.”
To support their family, Josias’ father works as a day laborer, while his mother weaves fabric to sell. However, their combined income is not enough to afford the medical care that Josias needs.
In indigenous Mayan communities like Josias’, rates of malnutrition are some of the highest in the world. In the majority of cases, this condition is linked with limited education and regional food insecurity.
For $535, Josias will be treated for acute malnutrition. During a three-month period, micronutrient food supplements will be added into his diet, gradually returning him to healthy nutrient levels.
Josias’ mother will also take part in an intensive nutrition education, equipping her with the skills and knowledge to care for Josias’ nutritional needs as he continues to develop.
WK states, “This treatment will provide Josias with micronutrient and food supplementation as well as medication to stop infections and improve his state of malnutrition. He will start to recoup the height and weight he has lost and his immune system will improve. He will decrease his risk of chronic disease in adulthood, and will have more energy to concentrate and succeed in school.”
Josias’ mother expresses, “I just want him to be healthy and strong and be able to study one day.”