We had another great event yesterday with our orphans. Once again, we were able to supply them with their monthly needs of food and medicines for malaria, stomach worms etc. School is on summer break for now so the kids get a chance to rest and enjoy the summer for 1 month. One observation our project manager noticed was that all the orphans were sleeping without a mosquito net. For the June distribution, we purchased mosquito nets for all our orphans. It is amazing how something so simple can truly save a life.
Malaria is one of the most severe public health problems worldwide. It is a leading cause of death and disease in many developing countries, where young children and pregnant women are the groups most affected. It is unbelievable how devastating Malaria is and also how treatable and preventable it is. For example and thanks to their sponsors, our orphans now sleep under nets treated with long-term mosquito repellant (prevention) and if they do get Malaria, we quickly supply the medicines for a speedy recovery (treatment). Without these 2 components, our orphans would be in the same boat as those children without any help. Check out the stats I pulled from the CDC and the World Health Organization. According to the World Health Organization’s World Malaria Report 2009 and the Global Malaria Action Plan:
-3.3 billion people (half the world’s population) live in areas at risk of malaria transmission in 109 countries and territories.
-35 countries (30 in sub-Saharan Africa and 5 in Asia) account for 98% of global malaria deaths.
-In 2008, malaria caused an estimated 190-311 million clinical episodes and 708,000-1,003,000 deaths.
-89% of the malaria deaths worldwide occur in Africa.
-Malaria is the 2nd leading cause of death from infectious diseases in Africa, after HIV/AIDS.
It is interesting to note that in the Beninese culture, children that survive what is called "Palu" which is the local name for Malaria, sort of undergo a rite of passage. Many infants and children in Benin lose this battle with Malaria every year. Often times with those that survive, small marks are made on their checks to symbolize their strength and honor. While I dont condone tribal marking and cutting, in this instance, it sure beats the alternative! Thank you a thousand times to our sponsors. You really have no idea how you are radically changing the lives of our orphans.
Jace & Sarah
Some of our orphans posing for a pic....
She just got her mosquito net!
One of our workers showing the kids how to use the nets
The Nets!
Taking stomach meds for worms, parasites etc.
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