Around the end of January Summer started complaining about tummy aches...just about every day. It was usually at bed time, or right after eating and it wasn't going away. I booked an appointment with the doctor, but as the appointment approached, Summer seamed to be feeling better. Well, the stomach aches came back, along with a sickly look, and some weight loss. I booked another appointment and kept it this time. When we finally got in to see the doctor, we found out that Summer had lost 15 lbs in just 4 or 5 months! The doctor ordered a ton of tests, but seemed unworried and assured us that "when the test came back normal" we would dig deeper into possibly celiac disease or possibly anxiety.
The tests did not come back normal. As the results spilled into the app on my phone over the next few days, just about every single one was abnormal. I was so scared. From my google research, I was sure Summer had leukemia or something equally terrifying. We were scheduled to meet with the doctor in 2 weeks to discuss the results, but I couldn't wait. I messaged my doctor on Friday afternoon and she immediately called me (I am so grateful for such a wonderful doctor). She reassured me that the results did not point to leukemia, and the only abnormal result that concerned her was the Thyroid numbers, which pointed to something called Grave's Disease (a treatable autoimmune disease).
Thus started our endless journey of doctor's visits and blood draws. Eventually Summer was diagnosed with both Celiac Disease (after an endoscopy) and Grave's Disease (leads to hyperthyroidism--which explained the weight loss). It has been a long few months figuring it all out.
We have cut out gluten, Summer has to take pills daily to regulate her thyroid, and we have routine blood draws and doctors visits. Summer is looking and feeling herself again. While I am so grateful what she has is treatable, I am also a sad for my little girl. Both Celiac and Grave's she will have through her entire life. She will be dependent on medicine. It's all a little overwhelming for a 10 year old to deal with. Summer has been such a trooper through it all. She absolutely hates needles, and had a few near panic attacks when having her blood drawn. This last time, she was so brave and barely fazed by it. She's learned what she can and can't eat, and always asks if things have gluten and is so responsible. I know she will be a stronger person because of this struggle, but at the same time, I wish she didn't have to go through it. I love her so much and am grateful I get to help her, love her, and support her through this journey.
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