“I hope my child can grow better,” says Tomas’ mother. Tomas, an 18-month-old boy from Guatemala, is acutely malnourished.
“He has a cough and fever and frequent bouts of diarrhea. His mother says that they cannot afford to buy fruit, vegetables, or protein sources (like eggs) for their children. His immune system is weak and his height for age and weight for age are far below average. He is at risk for the long-term effects of malnutrition and permanent physical and mental stunting that will affect his ability to succeed academically and in the work force. Without intervention, his immune system will continue to weaken and he will experience the effects of stunted mental and physical development,” explains our medical partner, Wuqu’ Kawoq (WK).
Indigenous Guatemalans are one of the most marginalized and vulnerable populations in the world. They live in rural areas and suffer from high rates of food insecurity. The poorest indigenous Guatemalan villages have the highest rates of stunting in the world.
$270 funds a multifaceted intervention for Tomas’ malnutrition. “He will receive micronutrient and food supplementation as well as medications to treat his fever, cough, and gastrointestinal infection. This will help him to hold on to/absorb the calories he consumes. A physician will evaluate him and if his health falters during the program he will receive all necessary medical attention to help him recoup lost weight. We believe this treatment will help him to gain both height and weight, strengthen his immune system, and help him get back on track to develop to his full potential,” describes WK.
Tomas likes to play with his little car and plastic boxes, and eat squash and zucchini. He is always smiling and likes to share toys with his sister. Let’s help him get back on track, and fund this treatment!
