Text Box: Ruth Marina Lopez Garcia        Ruthie came to us through one of BMDMI's Medical and Dental teams in June of 1999. She was born June 17, 1997. She lives here with her older sister Rosita.       Ruthie’s grandmother brought her to us because she was in a very bad state of neglect and malnutrition. She was only 2 years old at the time and weighed only 12 pounds. Ruthie's mother is mentally handicapped and her father is crippled and cannot work. Her grandmother was the only person working to provide for the family. She worked during the day, leaving Ruthie, Rosita and 5 nieces and nephews under the care of Ruthie’s mother. She was unable to care for the children properly and so they were neglected in many ways. It was very difficult for the grandmother to work because she was very old. She knew that her time on earth was limited, so she wanted to make sure Ruthie and her sister Rosita would be taken care of. Since then we have received news that her grandmother has died.         Due to the malnutrition problems and other factors, Ruthie is now mentally handicapped. We are still not sure to what extent but she is not as severe as her sister Rosita. Ruthie has started school but is very slow in her learning. She doesn’t speak very much but can say a few words and phrases. Ruthie is such a sweet child and it doesn’t take much to make her smile. She is so full of joy and energy. If someone talks to her she is so thrilled. If she hears music she just claps her hands and jumps for joy.         Ruthie still needs your help not only in prayer but also in financial support. For just $25 per month, you can help provide the food, shelter, clothing, medical and dental care she needs. Can Ruthie count on you to help provide the necessities for her to have a happy and meaningful life?