November 20th is World Children's Day. All over the globe in rural areas and big cities alike, this special day will be observed by sharing love, health, food, assistance, and more to the youngest generation. It is also a time intended to raise awareness for less fortunate children worldwide, promoting international solidarity and striving to improve the welfare of children in need.
MFK is always working to treat and feed Haitian children and women thanks to our devoted donors. In celebrating worldwide children's day, MFK is continually grateful for the tremendous generosity which helps us fight to decrease malnutrition levels and continue to provide treatment to Haitian children through our programs.
MFK is proud to celebrate and honor Haitian children especially, those who are enrolled in our malnutrition program. While Haiti is still facing deep political crises, social and economic situations, we continue to assist the vulnerable children who are the most affected. As a Haitian proverb says, " timoun jodi granmoun demen'' (child of today, citizen tomorrow). MFK will continue to stand with them as they are the country's future.
One of those children who are the future of Haiti is Jean Kerry. When Jean Kerry was 12 months old, he was treated for severe malnutrition at the CHIDA hospital, one of the MFK's partners. CHIDA is located in the Balan community (Plaine-du-Nord) in northern Haiti. Jean was living with his parents, Louis and Jean Jerry. Jean Kerry was born in October of 2020 at Justinien Hospital. Unfortunately, Jean Kerry was not able to be fed with the mother's milk because he refused it at the time. At six months old, Jean Kerry became sick and lost a significant amount of weight due to malnourishment.
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At 11 months old, Kerry's health became dire with edema, loss of appetite, fever, and weakening and brittle hair. After several unsuccessful appointments and assessments by doctors, Kerry's situation did not improve. One day, his mother’s cousin suggested that she should go to CHIDA hospital with him and bring him to the malnutrition program for screening. She understood that the program could save Jean Kerry’s life. He was admitted for severe acute malnutrition, received Medika Mamba and in inpatient care, and then continued his treatment in the outpatient program. He spent 8 weeks in the program and graduated at a healthier, normal weight.
Jean Kerry's mother said, "I have no doubt about my baby's health now. Medika Mamba is the real treatment that my baby needed for his healing. In the first half of the first week of treatment, his whole body started to change. I am very grateful to MFK and hope that this program continues in the Balan community to save more children's lives."
