Delmer is 6 years old and was diagnosed this past year with celiac disease.
What symptoms was your child having before being diagnosed?
Delmer was almost entirely asymptomatic. I (his mom) have celiac disease so I had him tested when he was 3 and then again before he went into kindergarten just in case. Both times his screening test was negative. About halfway through kindergarten he started to develop vitiligo, and autoimmune skin condition where the skin pigment is destroyed. When we finally got him in to a dermatologist she tested him for all sorts of autoimmune conditions and his celiac numbers were through the roof.
Any other family members diagnosed with celiac disease?
His mom.
How has your child’s life changed since being diagnosed?
His life has changed for the better. He was 50th percentile on all the growth charts and in 9 months has gone up to 90th percentile. He also has so much more energy now and is enjoying being a part of swim team and playing outside with friends. He hates having to bring a lunch from home to school, but fortunately I've been gluten free for years and already baked all of our cookies and cupcakes gluten free. That made the transition easier for him by far.
What advice would you offer a parent who’s child was just diagnosed with celiac disease?
Learn to bake and cook! I couldn't do either well before I was diagnosed years ago, but learning those skills has made a difference in my life and in the life of my son. He loves having homemade gluten free cookies that he can share with his friends.
I'm happy to hear you're doing great, Delmer! By the way, you have the most beautiful eyes. It's great having your momma eating gluten-free too. She will continue to make you delicious gluten-free cookies and cupcakes for years to come.
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