Sweet Faces of Celiac Disease: Meet Kaydee

Kaydee is 11 yrs. old and was diagnosed     with celiac disease at 9 yrs. old. 

At what age was your child diagnosed with celiac disease?

9 yrs. old

What symptoms was Sarah having before being diagnosed?

Kaydee had horrible stomach aches almost every day during the fourth grade. Nausea, constipation, eczema, failure to thrive, brain fog, depression and anxiety were also problematic.

Any other family members diagnosed with celiac disease?

After Kaydee's diagnosis we were able to conclude that her older brother also has celiac disease.

How has Kaydee’s life changed since being diagnosed?

She still struggles with headaches. The difficult part has been the emotional aspect. Not being able to participate in parties, school activities, not being able to go out to eat. She feels alone and recently she said its said realizing she will never be able to have the foods she loved. We are still trying to get her health back. It's a long and difficult process...

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 think schools need to be educated in this disease. It needs to have the same respect as something such as diabetes. My daughter has been left out of school activities and bullied. I really feel teachers and school administration needs to go to some sort of training. The lack of education and compassion is upsetting.

Thank you mom for sharing Kaydee's story. I'm sorry to hear she is feeling bummed, but I hope she is feeling so much better and her headaches will subside soon. This is when our role comes into to play and we have to be the POSITIVE, uplifting support system for our children. One day, maybe sooner than later, she will embrace it and teach others, even the bullies, about this disease that affects 2.5 million people.