Malnutrition is a serious health issue that significantly affects the growth and development of children globally. Without treatment, acute malnutrition can be fatal, and even survivors are left vulnerable to future malnutrition and illnesses. Those who experience malnutrition during their childhood may have their cognitive and motor skills affected, making it more difficult for them to succeed as adults.
In Somalia, the situation is especially dire, with about 1.2 million children under five suffering from acute malnutrition, including over 230,000 who are facing life-threatening severe acute malnutrition. Through Trocaire Somalia, PWS&D is supporting the nutritional needs of over 14,500 children, in collaboration with Canadian Foodgrains Bank.
Bishar’s Journey
Bishar, a 13-month-old boy from Jibril village, was showing signs of illness for several days when a community health worker from Trocaire, PWS&D’s partner in Somalia, visited his home. Already stressed by the difficulties of providing for the family, Bishar’s mother Nuria Mohamed was deeply worried about his condition. The community health worker quickly measured Bishar’s upper arm circumference, which demonstrated that he was severely malnourished. Acting swiftly, the health worker referred Bishar to Khalil Hospital nine kilometers from the child’s home.
Weighing just 4.1 kilograms, Bishar was admitted to the stabilization centre where he received dedicated care and medical intervention. Bishar responded positively during his three-week hospital stay and was soon allowed to return to his home.
Once home, Bishar continued to receive support. He was enrolled in the Outpatient Therapeutic Program at the Belethawa Maternal and Child Health Centre. This program provided continued support and monitoring to ensure the now healthier baby continued to recover. Bishar also received support and education from an infant and young child feeding counsellor, who provided education to Bishar’s family, especially his mother, about essential infant and young child feeding, nutrition and overall health practices. Meanwhile, the community health worker reinforced these messages, monitored Bishar’s progress, and provided practical demonstrations on meal preparation and hygiene practices. Together, they equipped Nuria with the knowledge and skills needed to support Bishar’s recovery and ongoing well-being at home.
Bishar’s recovery brought hope to his family, marked by a bright smile upon discharge from the hospital. Nuria expressed immense gratitude for the staff’s dedication and the hospital’s assistance in saving her son’s life. Bishar’s miraculous turnaround emphasizes the impact of collaborative efforts, healthcare interventions, and community support in combating malnutrition and restoring hope to vulnerable families.
Click below to support responses like this, which provide emergency interventions for people in need.
