This series of community visits brought me together with Mercy Kasama Joyce. Our itinerary focused on the infants under her supervision, which included John Andrei Francisco of Cabunga-an, Johnyo Macias of Ada, Amely Esmerez of Opong, Tolosa, and Arbin Cerena of Olot, Tolosa.
The high point of the day was celebrating a major developmental milestone: one of the babies reached his second birthday, marking the successful completion of the 1000 Days Program. Seeing this child, who was visibly healthy, active, and thriving, was hugely gratifying. His healthy condition provides powerful, tangible proof of the program’s effectiveness in supporting children during their most critical window of early life.
The visits also provided deep insight into the families’ commitment. For instance, Johnyo’s mother is a shining example of dedication. She shared that she is meticulously following the guidance of the Mercy Kasamas regarding not just her son’s care, but also her own nutritional health. She understands the direct link between her diet and the quality of her breastmilk, which is the perfect fuel for her child. She achieves this critical maternal nutrition by incorporating local, super-nutritious ingredients like malunggay (moringa) leaves and eggs into her meals. Johnyo’s excellent growth trajectory serves as a visual testament to her diligence and reinforces a central message from the Kasamas: that the mother’s health is just as important as the baby’s in ensuring positive developmental outcomes.
My appreciation for these parents, particularly the mothers, is immense. It is great to see them take this advice to heart. Their willingness to dedicate themselves fully to the care plan ensures their babies grow up healthy and strong.
This consistency and unwavering maternal dedication are, without a doubt, the greatest factors in ensuring we raise a new generation of healthy, happy, and capable individuals.