“I just want a healthy baby,” says the mother of Norman, a 22-month-old boy from Guatemala.
Our medical partner, Wuqu’ Kawoq (WK), explains that Norman has epilepsy, a neurological disorder that induces seizures. While an estimated 65 million people in the world have epilepsy, the causes of the condition are largely unknown.
Norman began experiencing convulsions when he was only three months old, and now they occur more frequently. WK continues, “Two weeks ago, Norman’s parents ran out of money to buy his anti-seizure medication. His convulsions occurred multiple times. They require a lot of energy and they leave him tired and dazed.”
Without treatment, Norman will continue to have seizures—possibly with greater frequency. WK adds, “His brain may suffer damage from the seizures that could have a lasting effect, and as he gets older, it could prevent him from attending school.”
Norman’s mother cares for him at home, and she is fearful of him having a seizure when she takes him with her to the market. His father works at a gas station, but he does not earn enough money to pay for Norman’s regular doctor visits and anti-seizure medication. “Norman’s family will struggle to afford his medication,” reports WK. “This will constantly be a burden for them and will also lead to him taking his medication inconsistently.”
For $967, Norman will receive medication to control his seizures, lab work to identify other potential health issues, and regular doctor visits to monitor his health. “Norman’s mother will be able to tend to her normal daily tasks without fear that if she looks away her baby will start convulsing,” says WK.
When he is feeling well, Norman enjoys playing with his toy cars out in his yard. With the proposed treatment, both Norman and his parents will benefit from a medical support system–diminishing the effects of his condition and giving him the opportunity to enjoy a healthy childhood.
