In the remote village of Lodochok, Faraksika boma, Ngarich Payam, Budi County, a small child named Dominic Lokwar was fighting for his life. Born into a family of eight children, Dominic was only 12 months old when he fell ill. His parents, who were peasant farmers, struggled to provide for their large family and couldn’t afford proper medical care. When Dominic started experiencing watery stools, difficulty breathing, and fever, his parents turned to traditional treatments in their community. They hoped that the herbs and remedies would bring relief to their sick child. But as the days passed, Dominic’s condition worsened.
Concerned for Dominic’s well-being, community nutrition volunteers (CNVs) from Kimotong Payam made a home visit to check on the child. Much to their surprise, Dominic and his caretakers were nowhere to be found. The CNVs learned from the local health center that Dominic had been a defaulter in his outpatient therapeutic program (OTP) visits.
After an exhaustive search, the CNVs finally located Dominic undergoing traditional treatment. Realizing that the herbs had failed to improve his health, the CNVs provided thorough counseling to Dominic’s parents and urged them to seek modern medical treatment. They referred Dominic to Kimotong Primary Health Care Center (PHCC) for further medical check-ups and nutrition treatment. Upon arrival at the PHCC, Dominic was in a critical condition. He was lethargic, with a very weak pulse, weighing only 4.9 kilograms, and with a mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) of just 8.9 centimeters. A malaria rapid diagnostic test confirmed that he had malaria. The medical team immediately initiated treatment, providing oral ReSomal, intravenous artesunate, benzylpenicillin, gentamicin, and F75 on phase one of the treatment protocol. After stabilizing his condition, Dominic was shifted to amoxicillin syrup, gentamicin injection, artesunate, amodiaquine tablets, and F100 in phase two.
Dominic spent an average of 13 days at the Stabilization center receiving life-saving treatment. Finally, on May 25th, 2023, he was discharged with a referral slip for follow-up at the Faraksika PHCU OTP. Dominic’s parents were overjoyed to see their son’s health improving and were given a piece of soap as they left the health center. Since his discharge, Dominic has been undergoing regular follow-up visits at Faraksika PHCU. He has shown remarkable progress, with his MUAC measurement increasing to 10.5 centimeters and a good appetite.
The nutrition assistant at the PHCU has provided counseling to Dominic’s parents, ensuring that they understand the importance of continued care for their son. Dominic’s survival can be attributed to the dedicated efforts of the staff at AFOD. Sunday, Kadabara, Tani, Hellen, and the entire team put in their best effort to ensure that Dominic received the necessary medical treatment and nutritional support. Their expertise and compassion saved Dominic’s life and gave him a chance at a healthy future. Dominic’s story is not unique.
AFOD works tirelessly to improve the lives of rural poor, marginalized, and vulnerable communities. Through their integrated nutrition activities and commitment to providing state-of-the-art care, AFOD is making a significant impact in Budi County and beyond. The organization’s mission to enhance access to improved nutrition interventions and advance the standard of nutrition care is evident in Dominic’s journey to recovery. AFOD’s dedication to translating scientific discovery into practical solutions has transformed the lives of countless individuals like Dominic. As Dominic continues his journey towards full recovery, AFOD remains committed to providing the support and care necessary to ensure that he thrives. AFOD staff work is a testament to the power of compassion, expertise, and determination in changing lives. Dominic’s story is a reminder that no matter the circumstances, there is always hope for a better tomorrow. And with organizations like AFOD leading the way, that hope can become a reality for communities in need. Support us to support more children like Dominic.
