Sweet Faces of Celiac Disease: Meet Grace

Grace is 6 yrs. old and was diagnosed with celiac disease at 2 yrs. old.

What symptoms were you or your child having before being diagnosed?

Constantly sick (weakened immune system), eczema,  projectile vomiting (a few times a week), food refusal, tantrums, pulling out hair.

Any other family members diagnosed with celiac disease?

My aunt (her great aunt)

How has your life or your child's life changed since being diagnosed?

She is so healthy now, it only took a few weeks of an extreme diet overhaul. She gets sick like a normal kid and heals now. Her weight, hair and skin are all normal. She has less tantrums. She doesn't vomit profusely.

We all eat gluten free at home with her. One for all and all for one.

Being that 83% of those with celiac disease are UNDIAGNOSED, what are some ways we can encourage more awareness of the disease and its multiple symptoms?

I always approach mother of children that are constantly sick or look weak on playgrounds (if I can manage to swing a conversation easily). I also alert parents in classrooms of my daughter's condition to spread awareness. I think word of mouth reaches people much better than articles laying in doctors' offices.

Thank you for sharing Grace's story with us!  Mom, keep up the good work and continue educating other parents about celiac disease. Grace is a beautiful little girl. :)