Sweet Faces of Celiac Disease: Meet Juliana

Juliana is 5 years old and was diagnosed with celiac disease 
less than a year ago.

What symptoms was your child having before being diagnosed?

Because Celiac disease run on my dad's side of my family including myself, I had both my children tested for the Celiac disease gene. Juliana was 4 at the time and her brother, Everett was 1. Both of their tests showed they have the gene. Next, the PCP ordered the Celiac disease blood test and Juliana's was mildly elevated. This was a surprise since she never showed any outward signs except occasional constipation. We were referred down to Children's Hospital of Wi in Milwaukee and later had an endoscopy performed on Juliana. She was diagnosed with Celiac disease a week before her 5th birthday. 

Any other family members diagnosed with celiac disease?

Mom, maternal grandfather, great aunt and great uncle

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

More energetic, no constipation!!! YAY! But can be emotionally hard during the school year at snack time.

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

Give it time... it gets easier. :)

Juliana, how sweet are you! I bet you are having a lot of fun this summer and I hope you have a great school year! 

Yes, it does get easier Mom! Challenges will arise throughout their lives, but it's how we teach them to handle these situations, whether by being prepared (if possible, as surprise parties and other occasions will arise) and most importantly, staying positive!