Describe your life prior to diagnosis:
Before my diagnosis of celiac disease at age four, I was in dire straights. I was underweight and under the projected height I should have been at that age. My arms and legs were skinny—perhaps “stick-like” is a more apt word to use. My stomach was swollen out beyond its limits and my only personality traits were fussy and whiny due to the pain I was in.
How did your parents come to suspect you had celiac disease?
My parents took me in for many tests before a doctor realized I had celiac disease and had me tested for it. I do not know how long it took to get diagnosed but I’m glad we were able to figure out what was wrong. At the time, celiac disease was unknown to the masses, which made life more challenging.
Describe your experience with living with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity:
My experience living with celiac disease has had its up and downs. I still have symptoms while adhering to a strict gluten-free diet. For me, even a crumb can cause me to go to the ER, so invitations to go to a friend’s house, a restaurant, or a party to bring a lot of anxiety with them. Tons of side effects from celiac disease inhabit my daily life but I am beyond grateful to have a diagnosis.
