I have written recently about Maria who lives in Nueva Victoria, a community far from the main road, high in the mountains. Maria nearly lost her foot due to an infection caused by her inability to walk which left her dragging her foot in the dirt with crutches too small. The infection was so bad that most feared her foot could not be saved. Maria could not walk due to a very common disease in Guatemala, Spinal Bifida, which is due to a lack of certain nutrients during pregnancy. With the highest rate of malnutrition in the western Hemisphere, Guatemala also experiences extremely high rates of many other diseases as a result.
Several people helped out and we were able to get Maria to a hospital in Guatemala City where, through some fortuitous connections, she was able to have surgery and have a membrane placed over the hole in her foot. Our only cost was transportation for the mother back and forth to the hospital and food and medicines. She spent a good month in the hospital. The mother was able to stay part of the time but with seven other kids at home, she had to return regularly to Nueva victoria.
Today Maria and her mom were released from the hospital to return home, much to everyone's joy. Maria has progressed well and although she will need considerable therapy, she is whole and all that helped are to be thanked. We all have great expectations for the future for Maria. Posted by Joel Geer 06Oct11
We here at Guatemala Children's Project wish to thank all who have supported Maria through this miracle with your prayers and financial help. This young woman surely would have lost her foot and quite possibly her life without your help. You are truly her angels. Thanks!!
