Stelliac

Stella's hospital fashion.

A bunch of years ago a parent commented to me that our girls were so cute and small. I answered that we raised them that way due to the lack of space in New York City apartments. Like Shetland ponies.

Indeed, the girls are petite. And that's what began to concern their pediatrician. So a month ago the doctor ordered some tests for Stella. A bone-age x-ray and a blood test.

To put it mildly, Stella didn't like the blood test. Or the second blood test.

The bone-age test came out okay. But the blood test results indicated that Stella had Celiac Disease.

Well, that explained a lot.

The next step, after much arguing discussion, was to do an endoscopy and tissue biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and determine the damage to her stomach and intestines.

Nana and Papa Shepard came down to Brooklyn to take care of Marni on the day of Stella's procedure.

On Tuesday (July 30) Lisa and I drove Stella to Columbia Presbyterian Hospital early in the morning. Stellie was in good spirits and chatted nervously as we checked her in. 

Waiting to get started.

She got into her hospital pajamas (extra small) and played on the iPad while the doctors and nurses did their thing. Eventually, she was given liquid "sleepy juice" to mellow her out. After a while she got drowsy and we brought her into the room where the procedure was going to take place. She was fast asleep within 15 seconds of gas.

Less than a half hour later we were brought into the recovery room where sleeping beauty was already waiting. It took her over an hour to wake up, but when she did she was a very happy camper. She actually said it was very cozy there and that she wouldn't mind doing it again. Within another hour we were on our way home.

Two days later the results of the biopsy came back confirming Celiac.

So now what?

Stella's been amazingly brave and accepting of her new lifestyle. She bemoans that fact that McDonalds and Subway are no longer a part of her life. She misses french fries. And Stella often thinks that Marni should no longer eat things that she used to like (that's still to be determined). She's very involved in her dietary changes and is cautious (and a little worried) about what she eats. She's discovered Chex cereal and some very expensive gluten-free pretzels. She's understandably apprehensive about going back to school but she's excited about switching back to home made lunch (Lisa, not so excited).

As for Lisa, she's researching and shopping nonstop for new gluten-free foods for Stella. I've become very adept at using my phone and the web to determine what's gluten free and what's not.

Stella's gastroenterologist has recommended that Marni, Lisa and I all get tested for Celiac since it's genetic. Supposedly it's very likely that siblings have the disease. My blood test has already indicated that I don't have Celiac, but genetic testing (which is a cheek swab) is required for all of us.

Meanwhile, we patiently wait for Stella's damaged tummy to heal and for her anticipated growth spurt to start.

One less Shetland pony.

The sleepy juice is kicking in.

Coming out of it.

Cozy and happy after her "nap".