Eight-year-old Melquisedec was diagnosed with rotavirus, a viral infection that in 2004 caused a country-wide epidemic in Guatemala.

Unable to afford medical care, Melquisedec's parents sought help at an Operation Blessing medical supply center. OBI's supply centers provide medicine to low-income families in Guatemala.

"This project really works well to save many lives," said Melquisedec's mother. "Our family is a good example of that."

ZACAPA, Guatemala - With no money to pay for a doctor or medicine, the parents of 8-year-old Melquisedec feared the worst.

Melquisedec was diagnosed with rotavirus, a viral infection that nearly three years ago caused a country-wide epidemic.

"[In 2004] there was a virus attacking the population, leaving thousands sick and dozens dead," said Alma, the boy's mother. "When we saw Melquisedec fall sick in his bed, we knew it had arrived in our home."

The infection, which causes vomiting, diarrhea, appetite loss and extreme weakness, results in the death of over 600,000 children annually worldwide, according to the Center for Disease Control.

Without money to pay for medical care, Melquisedec's parents could only watch him lay immobile in bed.

"The illness advanced and we feared the worst," said his father Marco. "Indeed, we thought our son would die."

Fortunately for Melquisedec and his family, they were able to find help at one of Operation Blessing's medical supply centers, or "community first-aid kits." The kits are located in 40 cities throughout Guatemala and house a cost-free drugstore, supplying medicine to low-income families based on specific needs.

"We received medicine for Melquisedec from Operation Blessing, and we began the treatment for him," Marco said. "In a few days, our son began to feel better and his body was strengthening once again. The fever was also disappearing."

Melquisedec has since made a full recovery, and now plays happily with his friends.

"We give our thanks to God and Operation Blessing," Alma said. "This project really works well to save many lives. Our family is a good example of that."

Since 2005, more than 144,000 people have benefited from the "community first-aid kit" project.

HOW YOU CAN HELP
Be a part of OBI's ongoing medical relief efforts by making an online contribution to help those suffering from extreme poverty and sickness.

 

------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright © 1997- 2012 by Operation Blessing International of this page and all contents. No part of this site may be used without prior written consent from OBI. All Rights Reserved. Questions or comments? Email us at operation.blessing@ob.org.