Elderly Info

The food crisis in Guatemala is having a devastating effect on the elderly. Without enough to eat, many older people are becoming weak and malnourished, leaving them more vulnerable to illnesses that they cannot afford medical care for. They are unable to provide for even their most basic needs. In many cases, family members are unable to help as they struggle to feed themselves and their own children, leaving the elderly without any form of support and often living in heartbreaking conditions.

Please help us bring them the life-sustaining food and medical care that they so desperately need. General donations are used to ensure that we always have an adequate supply of food, medicine, and funds for meals, necessary medical treatment, and transportation. Monthly sponsorship would help feed one person, once a day for five days a week. Via blog and web album, we'll show you exactly where your aid is going and help you get to know the men and women whose lives you are changing.

If you would like to sponsor an elderly person for $35 a month, please click here and write "monthly sponsorship'' in the Other box. To make a one-time donation for medicine, rent, or other costs, please click here and enter "Elderly Care Program" in the Other box. Any questions can be directed to Amy at amy@mayanfamilies.org


Media on Mayan Families Elderly

Book:
Ancianos : Megan Gette + photos by Rob Bain, Nisa East, Rhett Hammerton and Hiroko Tanaka

Videos:
Mayan Families- Ancianos Stories : Nisa East

Mayan Families Elderly Feeding Care Program : Rhett Hammerton

Facing Hunger: Elderly in Rural Guatemala



Aug 7, 2012

Cayetana needs help with her heart and kidneys!

Cayetana is a lady in our Elderly Care Program. She has lately been suffering from swelling in her feet. Recently, she was sent to visit the doctor, who told her that the swelling is due to her heart becoming weaker.

Her heart is no longer beating strong enough. This is causing her to have bad circulation. Furthermore, her kidneys are no longer filtering her blood adequately, leaving behind a lot of waste that is accumulating in her extremities, resulting in swelling. This situation is very uncomfortable for Cayetana.

The doctor gave her an injection to help with the inflammation and the pain. However, it will not relieve the actual problem. Cayetana does not have enough money for treatment.

To donate to help Cayetana, please go to Donate Now and scroll down.  In the Other $ box, enter the amount of your donation.  In the Details box, enter A-60 Cayetana Medical.  Every little bit will help us to save Cayetana's life!  Thank you!

Aug 6, 2012

Miguel needs help with food and medication!

Don Miguel is a 55 year-old man in our diabetes club. He lives in a house that he owns with his four children, ages 32 to 22, two son-in-laws, and five grandchildren. He helps support his family, but his health problems are starting to get in the way.

For the past six years he has suffered from epilepsy. He takes medication whenever he has a seizure. His last seizure was three weeks ago, when he had to be hospitalized in order to control the problem.

He also has had diabetes for the last ten years.The illness is mostly stable and he gets medical assistance whenever he can afford it. Unfortunately, Miguel cannot afford treatment right now. The disease causes him to be weak, dizzy, and have swollen hands.

The family would really appreciate any assistance that you could give for food, medication, and a walking stick. At the moment, Miguel cannot perform his job well, hindering his ability to feed his eleven family members.

To donate to help Miguel, please go to Donate Now and scroll down.  In the Other $ box, enter the amount of your donation.  In the Details box, enter D-4 Miguel Medical or D-4 Miguel Food.  Every little bit will help us to keep Miguel's family healthy!  Thank you!