Karyn is nine months old but is only the size of a healthy two-month-old. She and her twin, also named Karyn, are small for their age and very malnourished. Their mother cannot produce breast milk.
This limited diet is insufficient and has dangerous implications for Karyn’s health. Lactation failure can lead to starvation and dehydration. Brain development occurring during this delicate time is compromised, so she is at risk of long-term damage. To stabilize her condition, Karyn was given a preliminary supply of formula, which will last until our medical partner’s nutritionist can create a nutritional plan and formally begin treatment.
Karyn’s father works a day laborer, but he cannot afford to pay for her treatment. The family needs help to fund this intervention. Our medical partner, Wuqu’ Kawoq, is requesting $1,107 to fund this treatment. She will begin treatment on February 3.
By supplying Karyn with formula and her mother with health education, Karyn will receive the calories she needs to grow and thrive. One-on-one education with Karyn’s mother will teach her how to provide a nutritious, inexpensive diet for her daughter. She will also learn to check for signs of malnutrition and other illness. Karyn’s immune system will strengthen, and she will grow up to be a healthy, energetic baby.
Karyn’s mother says, “We are worried about our daughter’s health since she is so small and keeps getting sick. Before this, we had not thought to look for help since we live so far away from the community. We hope our twin daughters can get better and grow well so that they can someday have dignified jobs.”
