Lack of access to healthcare in the developing world is one of the biggest challenges for families living in poverty. It leaves children who are born with health issues incredibly at risk and their guardians feeling powerless to help them.
Open Arms’ innovative approach to childcare in Malawi offers hope to those families wanting to raise their children at home, but who lack the resources to do so.
This was the case for Mervin and his family - but after several months on the Community-Based Care programme, look at them now!
Baby Mervin was born in February 2023, weighing a tiny 2.3 kg. His mother suffered from a prolonged mental illness, which left her unable to provide adequate care or breastfeed her new-born successfully.
Under Malawi’s child protection laws, Mervin was identified as needing care and support to ensure his wellbeing.
The Social Welfare Office therefore referred him to Open Arms' former Blantyre Infant Home a few weeks after birth for specialised care.
After a few months - once Mervin had regained his health and strength - he was supported in returning home to his extended family, under the care of his aunt (his mother’s sister.)
Through regular visits, Open Arms made sure his nutritional needs were being met and continued to monitor his development.
The team were pleased with his weight gain but concerns were raised about a potential physical disability due to weak and seemingly deformed legs, so they facilitated regular physiotherapy and medical care to address his physical challenges.
Mervin’s aunt was also trained to perform physiotherapy exercises at home to strengthen his muscles and improve his mobility.
With four consecutive months of physiotherapy, nutritional support and dedicated care, Mervin has achieved remarkable progress!
He is now able to walk independently and run confidently around the house. He has developed communication skills, can mimic and imitate sounds, and responds when his name is called.
His weight has increased significantly, reflecting his improved health and diet.
As well as a marked improvement in his physical development, Mervin is also developing well cognitively thanks to consistently good nutrition in a loving, family environment.
He is curious, attentive, and shows eagerness to learn new things. He follows instructions and takes orders from his aunt with ease. He interacts well with people around him, demonstrating strong social skills. He feels happy and secure growing up with his aunt and siblings.
Open Arms continues to provide essential support, including regular monitoring and advice, plus ongoing provision of formula milk, Likuni porridge and other basic needs.
Mervin's encouraging progress showcases the positive impact of consistent care and tailored support for vulnerable children and their families. We've no doubt he will continue to go from strength to strength!
Our aim is to empower families in Malawi to successfully care for their children at home - no matter how complex the child's needs.
Not only does this help vulnerable children survive and thrive, but it protects family and cultural bonds and prioritises locally-led solutions.
If you'd like to join us in our mission, there are many ways you can help. From a single gift, to a regular donation or child sponsorship - your support will go further than you think!
Click below to find out more or feel free to get in touch with us with any questions. Thank you!
Your donation will help children in Malawi grow up healthy with the love of a family
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