My name is Merline, and I have been working at the RHFH Rescue Center since 2012. My role is to care for sick and malnourished children who are admitted here, and every day, I have the chance to help them on their journey to recovery. One story that has stayed with me is that of Malia, a 2-year-old girl who deeply touched me.

Malia arrived at the center in a critical condition. Her body was swollen, she had a dangerously high fever, and she was suffering from a severe diaper rash that caused her a lot of pain. The rash was so bad that her skin was raw, and she couldn’t bear the touch of clothing. In the early days, we had to gently applying creams and powders to help with healing and pain. Every day, we administered medication and took care to make her as comfortable as possible.

The first few weeks were incredibly difficult, not just for Malia, but for all of us who cared for her. It was heartbreaking to see her in so much pain, but I was determined to be there for her every step of the way. I knew it would take patience, gentleness, and a lot of love to help her heal. Even when she cried in pain, I reminded myself that each small act of care was bringing her closer to recovery.

Slowly, signs of improvement began to show. The creams and treatments started working, and the rash that once seemed overwhelming began to fade. I’ll never forget the day Malia was able to wear clothes again without discomfort. It was a major turning point, a sign that her body was healing. Her cries of pain grew less frequent, and soon, her tears gave way to smiles.

As the weeks passed, Malia transformed. The little girl who had been so frail and in pain was now laughing, playing with other children, and full of life. Seeing her happy and full of joy was a reminder of why I love my work so much. It’s moments like these—when a child who was once suffering becomes joyful again—that make all the challenges worthwhile.

Malia’s recovery showed me that while medicines and treatments are crucial, the love and attention we give to these children is just as important. It’s that care and compassion that gives me the strength to continue every day. Watching children like Malia go from pain to happiness is the greatest reward I could ask for in this work.