In the village of Al-Khalil Al-Sharqi, within Al-Qanawis district, 16-month-old Afnan lives with her humble family. She was in critical health condition, suffering from severe diarrhea, persistent fever, and a complete loss of appetite. Her small body appeared frail and exhausted, weighing only 6 kilograms.
After days of suffering, her father decided to take her to Al-Khalil Al-Sharqi Health Unit, where she was examined by the medical team. Due to the severity of her condition, she was referred to the 21st September General Hospital in Al-Hali district, where specialists in severe acute malnutrition treatment (TFC) are available.
Afnan arrived at the 21st September General Hospital in Al-Hali district, in Jan. 2025, barely conscious due to continuous diarrhea.
The medical team from the project Scale up life-saving nutrition assistance to mitigate worsening acute food insecurity in Abs, Qafl Shammar, Ku'aydinah (Hajjah) and Az Zuhr, Az Zaydiah, Al Qanawis (Al Hudayidah)—funded by Yemen Humanitarian Fund (YHF) and implemented by National Foundation for Development and Humanitarian Response (NAHR)—immediately examined her. Clinical assessment revealed severe dehydration caused by recurrent diarrhea, along with a high fever and general body weakness due to malnutrition. Based on this diagnosis, a comprehensive treatment plan was implemented, which included: Administering appropriate medications to control fever and diarrhea. Providing a specialized nutritional regimen to stimulate appetite and improve nutrition. Continuous monitoring of her health condition around the clock.
Dr. Abu Bakr Mohammed Bashanfar, a pediatric specialist at 21st September General Hospital’s TFC unit, described Afnan’s condition upon arrival: "She was in an extremely critical state, with weak vital signs and severe dehydration due to the significant loss of fluids."
Her father recalled: "Afnan was in a dire state, suffering from severe diarrhea, fever, and complete loss of appetite."
Over eight days, the project’s medical team provided full care for her. Gradually, her condition improved—her fever subsided, diarrhea stopped, and she became more active and lively. Her weight also began to increase steadily, a clear sign of her positive response to treatment.
Her father expressed his relief: "I can see a clear change in my daughter. Her smile and laughter have returned, bringing me indescribable happiness."
After more than a week of intensive care, Afnan was transferred to the Al-Khalil Al-Sharqi Health Unit to continue her rehabilitation treatment under the Outpatient Therapeutic Program (OTP). Upon discharge from the TFC unit at the 21st September General Hospital, her weight had increased to 6.7 kilograms, and she could now eat normally and regain her strength.
Afnan is one of thousands of children who require special care and continuous support. Because every child deserves a chance at life, joint humanitarian efforts remain the true hope for changing reality for the better.
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