Sweet Faces of Celiac Disease: Meet Virginia

Virginia is 5 years old and was diagnosed with celiac disease at 
3 years old.

What symptoms was your child having before being diagnosed?

She would have liquid stool for a week then 3 weeks of nothing. Joint pain that was just assumed to be growing pains.

Any other family members diagnosed with celiac disease?

No others diagnosed but mom went gluten free and realized it stopped her tummy pain and constipation then diarrhea issues, still fighting with doctor to actually test.

How has your child’s life changed since being diagnosed?

She has grown 4in, hair started to grow faster, joint pain went away, no more tummy issues.

What advice would you offer a parent who’s child was just diagnosed with celiac disease?

Take a deep breath. At first it seems overwhelming but most meals can be changed to gluten free. We don't eat out as much as we used to and use that money to have nicer quality meals at home where its safe to eat.

I love your beautiful name, Virginia!! I have a daughter named Georgia.  Keep smilin' and swingin away sweet girl!