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"Saving Baby Fathi from Severe Wasting and Its Complications"

NAHR - Sunday, 03 August, 2025

"Saving Baby Fathi from Severe Wasting and Its Complications"

In the Al-Ma'aras area of Al-Zahra District, Fatima Mohammed Yahya had nothing but hope as she held her 12-month-old baby, Fathi Saadoun Abda Ali, who was suffering from severe wasting, anemia, recurring acute chest infections, and visible skin ulcers.

She rushed him to the outpatient clinic at Al-Zahra Rural Hospital, supported by the National Foundation for Development and Humanitarian Response (NAHR). After examination, his deteriorating health condition was evident:

    Weight: 5.2 kg

    Height: 69.5 cm

    Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC): 9.3 cm

Due to his critical condition, the medical team immediately referred him to the Therapeutic Feeding Center (TFC) at the 21 September Hospital in Al-Hali District, as part of the "Expanding Life-Saving Nutritional Assistance" project. Funded by the Yemen Humanitarian Fund (YHF) and implemented by NAHR, the project covers several districts affected by food insecurity in Hodeidah and Hajjah governorates.

Dr. Abu Bakr Mohammed Bashanfar, the supervising specialist, explained:
"We began with a treatment plan for acute chest infections and a blood transfusion to address severe anemia, alongside intensive nutritional therapy. Further tests revealed he had thalassemia, requiring immediate and careful care." Upon reviewing the family’s medical history, it was discovered that his older brother also had the same condition.

Over the course of more than a week, Fathi received intensive medical and nutritional care, gradually recovering. By the time he was discharged from 21 September Hospital, his weight had improved to 5.5 kg, and he was able to eat normally and regain his energy.

His mother, Fatima, shared: "I was afraid of losing him, but the medical team never left our side. Now, seeing him eat and become active again eases my heart."

After stabilizing, he was referred back to the Outpatient Therapeutic Program (OTP) at Al-Zahra Rural Hospital for continued nutritional treatment. The project coordinator also facilitated the official registration of Fathi and his brother with the Yemeni Society for Thalassemia and Genetic Blood Disorders to ensure ongoing care and follow-up.

Dr. Askar Hameed, the project coordinator, stated: "Fathi’s story is a living example of how well-planned humanitarian interventions can save a child’s life and give them a new chance."

This story is not just about treating a case—it’s a message of hope for all those facing similar circumstances, proving that timely intervention makes all the difference.