Fight Rising Malnutrition in Rural Guatemala

Early Friday morning, we embarked on our journey to San Antonio Suchitepéquez to meet Irma Robles, a Nutrition Technician deeply involved with Wuqu’ Kawoq for the past 8 years.

At 7:30 am, we arrived at the Miller Clinic, instantly feeling the shift to a warmer climate. We packed pure water and some snacks for the journey as we set off walking along the road with Irma. Unexpectedly, we ventured onto an unmarked path amidst the highway, stepping into what seemed like a bit of jungle among the trees and humidity. Despite large rocks strewn across the path, remnants of a river from years past, this was no obstacle for Irma.

We were warmly welcomed into the home of Doña Guadalupe, a member of the "Socorro" community, where she resides with her two children. She shared her introduction to Wuqu’ Kawoq's work through the medical missions held at the Miller Clinic. Doña Guadalupe recounted an instance when Irma, recruiting children for the Nutrition program in the "Socorro" community, assessed Dylan's weight and height at her home. It was then discovered that he required high-quality medical attention due to growth retardation. Thus began the collaborative efforts between Doña Guadalupe and Irma.

Dylan's mother is immensely pleased with the service provided by Wuqu’ Kawoq. She expressed witnessing a significant increase in her son's growth and appreciates the care Irma provides. Moreover, she values the proximity of the Wuqu’ Kawoq Miller Clinic to her home, ensuring accessible medical attention for her children compared to the more distant health post.

Through Wuqu’ Kawoq's unwavering commitment and collaboration with community members like Irma Robles and Doña Guadalupe, significant strides have been made in addressing child malnutrition and healthcare accessibility. 

In the heart of Sololá, nestled in the municipality of Aldea Xolbé, a remarkable transformation is unfolding in the life of young Daniel. His family has witnessed a profound change, and his parents are overjoyed at the support he's been receiving. The path ahead is not without challenges, but they're embracing it with unwavering determination.

Daniel, the first child of Don José Manuel and Doña Marcela, was diagnosed shortly after his birth with esophageal atresia, a rare digestive disorder affecting the esophagus that creates difficulty with breathing and swallowing food. Local health providers referred him to Roosevelt Hospital in Guatemala City for treatment, but the family could not afford follow-up care or the special milk formula required for him to take in nutrition, leaving him severely underweight, stunted, and struggling to survive. Then the family connected with Maya Health, which has helped monitor his care and access formula as he awaits surgery.

With this guidance, his parents are taking every step to ensure his well-being. His diagnosis of esophageal atresia meant that enjoying the flavors of life was a challenge, but his mother's love and care shone through in every spoonful of fruit and vegetable purees she prepared for him. Thanks to his parents’ diligent care, Daniel, at 17 months in October, has achieved a number of developmental  milestones. He began to crawl just two months ago, and now, he's taken his first steps. His words, "mamá," "no," and "Papá," fill the air, and when he desires something, he points with his tiny fingers. Together with his mother, he delights in watching Disney's "Masha and the Bear." His father, after returning from his construction job in the evenings, engages in playful father-son moments, where they pretend that Daniel is piloting an imaginary airplane. Laughter and warm embraces fill their room, adorned with cozy blankets to ward off the seasonal chill.

April marked Daniel's last visit at the Roosevelt Hospital, where they tracked his journey towards a surgery that would connect his esophagus to his stomach. Doña Marcela eagerly awaits the precise surgery date set for 2024. However, two weeks ago, they had a follow-up appointment that couldn't be fulfilled due to the current political unrest in Guatemala. The nation's political climate has led to demonstrations and roadblocks, making it impossible to travel to Guatemala City.

In this challenging journey, Daniel has found unwavering support. Regular visits from Wuqu’ Kawoq to monitor his growth, provide food supplements, and formula have played a pivotal role in Daniel's remarkable progress.