Fatou holds her 10-month-old son, Adboulaye, who had health problems due to being undernourished. The family was given vitamins and other medical aid at an OBI medical outreach.

SENEGAL, Africa – Fatou Diop was doing all she knew how to provide for her children, but it wasn't enough.

They were still undernourished and suffering side effects from lack of nutrient-rich food.

Abdoulaye, 10 months, had it particularly bad. He had a skin disorder because he lacked essential vitamins.

Fatou's husband works as a driver and brings home less than $250 a month, which isn't nearly enough to cover the cost of food, much less medicine or vitamins.

"I was worried about the health of my children," Fatou said.

The family found help at a recent Operation Blessing-sponsored medical mission at the District Hospital in Senegal, Africa, which is the main facility that treats the entire surrounding population of 255,000.

OBI linked up with the district health officials and other volunteers to distribute vitamins and medicines, including anti-parasite pills, to more than 1,500 families.

"I had no idea you would give us free vitamins, which is exactly what my children needed," Fatou said.

OBI linked up with the district health officials and other volunteers to distribute vitamins and medicines, including anti-parasite pills, to more than 1,500 families.

Staff and volunteers also helped Fatou understand the nutritional needs of her children and how she could use inexpensive food available at the local market to stay healthy.

In 2008 alone, OBI donated more than $10 million worth of medicine and vitamins to people in Senegal bringing the total of value of medicines sent to the country to nearly $20 million.

"It's getting more and more difficult for people to see a doctor, much less a specialist," said Gabriel, an OBI staff member in Senegal. "This will help people get the medicines they need."

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.

 

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