5 min read

Don’t Look Away : The story of Sami

November 28, 2024
by Medair
Afghanistan
It's not just a gift, it's a meal that saves a life!

Afghanistan is facing a deepening humanitarian crisis. It is now one of the 12 countries most affected by food insecurity. More than a third of the population, or 14.2 million people, are currently suffering from hunger. This situation is caused by climatic shocks (drought) and soaring food prices.  

Baby Sami’s story : A Journey to Recovery

In October 2024, Sami, an eight-month-old boy from Southern Afghanistan, visited a Medair health facility for the sixth time. His story is one of hope and recovery.

On his first visit, the medical team measured his upper-arm circumference using the MUAC bracelet, a simple yet effective tool to detect severe malnutrition in children. At that time, Sami weighed only 5.6 kg, showing clear signs of malnourishment.  

Sami, the baby, remains calm in the doctor’s arms during the examination with the MUAC bracelet. ©Medair

Through Medair’s interventions, which included nutritious supplements and essential care, Sami has now gained weight. Now, he weighs in at 6.4 kg!  Sami’s health began to improve.  

His mother, Sabera, shares her relief:

"My son was crying all the time, and his weight was low. I was so worried about his health condition that I couldn't sleep at night. Then, I brought him to this clinic. They provided him with nutritious supplements, and after a few weeks, my son started gaining weight. This makes me feel happy and hopeful for his future."

Using a horizontal tape measure, two doctors measured Sami's height while he was lying down. ©Medair

Last week, the doctor informed us, Sami weighs a healthy 7.7 kg, the normal weight for a child of his age. And, her mother Sabera can see the brightness returning to his eyes.

Through Medair’s dedicated health and nutrition programs, Sami’s story is a testament to the efficiency of timely care and treatment. Families like Sabera’s are finding hope and strength.  

Together, we're making a difference! A child is saved.

With your donation, you can gift a meal. It is not just a donation, but it's a meal that saves life!  

Make a Difference Today

60 CHF buys 6-weeks of treatment for a malnourished child

Buy a meal

Payment will be made via a secure portal

*(Names have been changed)
All the Medair country programs are funded by generous institutional donors and private donors.
This content was produced with resources gathered by Medair field and headquarters staff. The views expressed herein are those solely of Medair and should not be taken, in any way, to reflect the official opinion of any other organisation.  
November 28, 2024
Interested in stories like these?

Subscribe to receive the latest stories directly to your inbox.

By subscribing you agree with our Privacy Policy.

Become part of the story

There are so many ways you can make a meaningful difference for people affected by emergencies. However you get involved, your support will go a long way to bringing hope and restoration to people who need it most.

More stories of impact

Browse our publications, reports, updates, and stories.

Don’t Look Away: The story of Aisha

Feed a child. Save a life. Now that’s a gift worth giving.

Finding Peace Within: MHPSS Assistance in Eastern Ukraine

Medair provides mental health and psychosocial support to conflict-affected communities in eastern Ukraine.

Lebanon: State of Emergency

“There were airstrikes near our home in the South, and I could no longer risk staying there with my family. I had to ensure their safety”, says Hassan.