Arivella’s little brother, Isaac James, had intestinal worms, causing him to become worryingly weak. Her family lives near the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu in western Rwanda, an area that has been historically at high risk of both intestinal worms and schistosomiasis. The family caught on to his symptoms early, finding him treatment that allowed him to return to a painfree life.

Children with intestinal worms or schistosomiasis face a range of health challenges, from malnutrition and anemia to impaired cognitive and physical development. These infections lead to chronic fatigue, stunted growth, and a weakened immune system, leaving children vulnerable to other illnesses. The symptoms can keep children away from school, causing long term educational deficits.

Director: Imraan Christian
Producer: Yusuf Ahmed
Director of Photography: Raees Hassan
Associate Producers: Danielle Ashwin, Elyse Greenblatt, Eugene Ruberanziza, Eric Rwakimanzi,
Translator: Gaspard Habarurema, David Ndayishimiyee
Driver: Alphonse Nshogoza

Special Thanks:
The END Fund Deworming Innovation Fund
Rwanda Biomedical Center
Rwanda Ministry of Health
Rwanda Ministry of Environment