Rescue a Malnourished Child in Guatemala

On February 19th, Lucía arrived at Casa Jackson Hospital for Malnourished Children with her mother, María. Just 18 months old, Lucía was facing a life-threatening battle with severe acute malnutrition.

She couldn’t crawl, couldn’t walk, and her body was visibly weak. Her mid-upper arm circumference measured just 11 centimeters (4.3 inches) - well below the healthy threshold for a child her age.

Those first few days were difficult. Lucía cried often and refused food, clinging tightly to her mother for comfort. But even in those quiet, uncertain moments, our team could see it - a spark of determination in her eyes.

With daily nutrition therapy, gentle care, and constant support from volunteers and staff, Lucía began to heal. Her mother, María, quickly became part of the Casa Jackson family - volunteering in the kitchen, helping with laundry, and always lifting spirits with her kindness and gratitude.

Slowly, Lucía transformed. She began to smile. She laughed during playtime. She gained strength, learned to sit up on her own, and even took her first steps - with just a little help.

By the time she was discharged on May 2nd, her arm circumference had grown to 12.7 centimeters (5 inches) - a healthy, hopeful sign of full nutritional recovery.

Of course, there were moments of fear - times when Lucía fell ill again or seemed to regress. But with the love of her mother and the unwavering care of our team, she pushed forward every time.

Since opening its doors in 2008, Casa Jackson has saved the lives of over 1,800 babies just like Lucía - children whose lives were hanging in the balance due to malnutrition. And yet, the need is still great...

Your support is what makes their healing possible.

Because of you, Lucía now has a second chance at life. She leaves Casa Jackson stronger, happier, and ready to thrive.