Marbella’s Story

"She is a Miracle of God." This is how the nun who cares for 7-year-old Marbella Arias recently described her newest patient. Marbella was brought to our supported home and clinic by her dying mother. The little girl is HIV-positive and has a mixture of meningitis and tuberculosis — normally a deadly combination.

Marbella arrived severely underweight, with bad flu symptoms and diarrhea. She hardly spoke. Half of the young girl’s body is paralyzed, and she is unable to raise her left hand. This innocent little girl had every reason to lose all hope.

But through God’s grace and the loving care of her new home — supported by people like you — Marbella has made miraculous strides. “I thank God for the food,” she quietly told us recently. When asked if she is happy, the little girl responded with a slow nod of the head.

In addition to her treatments, Marbella receives three meals a day, physical therapy and lots of love in her new home. She’s gained a little weight and now talks more than when she first arrived. Marbella has “come alive” according to her caretakers, and her sweet demeanor is most apparent when caring for her favorite toy — a doll that she named after herself.

Innocent children like Marbella need the love and support of people like you to sustain their fragile lives. Please consider becoming a member of Food For The Poor’s Child of the Month Club by reaching out to help a child in desperate need.

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