Fueling Life: Positives

Positives?

"How could an adaptive device like a feeding tube ever feel positive?"

This was my thought leaving the hospital with my 15 month old son...

 and since we have seen many, and come to love his tube.

Let's count the blessings of how a feeding tube is fueling Nico's life:

• 10+lbs of weight gain/maintenance
• 5 clothing sizes
• eating food at meal times
• playing and active with his sisters, and cousins
• physically almost caught up with his motor skills
• loving little man
• in a community with amazing supporters and cheerleaders who "get us"
• able to stay hydrated fully
• good medical team
• supportive extended family and friends
• smart
• Happy
• He's "famous" and inspiring others, thanks to "My Belly Has Two Buttons" book

Having a feeding tube is not the end of the world,

and as a parent I want you all to know...

• an invisible illnesses doesn't mean nothing is wrong
• we see doctor's regularly and if he could be without it he would
• we ARE good parents
• he IS happy
• he can play and do things like other kids
• if you want to ask intelligent, non-judgemental questions be my guest, but if you are just asking something to make it seem like you would do a better job with him then don't.
• we would love for you to come hang out with us, feeding tubes aren't "catching"
• it is safe for him to be watched/babysat so if we ask you to then you ARE CAPABLE
• If you want to know how to support us as a family, come learn how to hook him up and give him water...I am happy to show you
• I am NOT wonder woman, you would do just as well in this situation. It takes practice.

Let's not pretend that all parts have been positive, but a lot of the important ones have.

Because of that I will always be proud to say, 

"My son Nico has a Feeding Tube and it saved his life!"

No matter how long he has one.