Meet Manuela, a 9-month-old baby girl from Guatemala. According to our medical partner, Wuqu’ Kawoq (WK), “Manuela is a generally happy and calm child. She is curious too and always trying to explore the world around her.”
Manuela is acutely malnourished. WK explains, “Manuela is far below the average weight for her age and the average height for her age. She is constantly sick with a cough and/or diarrhea and although she is a generally curious child, recently she has not had much energy.”
Nutrition is essential for healthy childhood growth. WK states, “If intervention does not occur Manuela will be at risk of the long term effects of malnutrition. Her immune system will continue to weaken and her physical and mental development will be compromised.”
Due to food insecurity, indigenous Guatemalan communities, like Manuela’s, have exceptionally high rates of malnutrition. Often times, the condition is linked with limited education.
For $535, Manuela will undergo a two-part treatment for her acute malnutrition. Over a 90-day period, she will receive nutrient-rich food supplements, gradually introducing essential nutrients to her diet. In addition, Manuela’s mother will be enrolled in an intensive nutrition education, providing her with the necessary skills and information to prevent malnutrition in the future.
Combined, this treatment will give Manuela a long-term health solution. “Intervention now will prevent the future devastating effects of malnutrition, and give Manuela the chance to live a healthy productive life,” shares WK.
Manuela’s mother adds, “My wish for my girl is that she will be able to complete the sixth grade. That would be amazing for me.”