I want to let you know that you have been a very important influence in our lives as a family and provided a turning point that changed the course of my parenting journey for the better. D was born via unplanned c-section after 48 hours of labor and many failed interventions that got us nowhere. I was devastated and felt like I started parenting as a failure.
Our first pediatrician made me feel like I wasn’t trying hard enough to feed D and it was my fault that she was so slow to gain weight. Her pattern of rashes, screaming, and digestive distress started very early and none of the medical professionals I talked with took my theory about food allergies seriously. Three different pediatricians, an allergist, and two nurse practitioners told me she was a fair-skinned redhead who would always be prone to rashes, and I should just put steroid cream on her and feed her normally. I knew there was something more going on, but no one would listen or pursue the food allergy path. I felt defeated and like all of my efforts with D were for nothing, since she was still so tiny and itchy, she never pooped normally, and hadn’t slept more than 2 hours in a stretch in her life.
Thanks to the recommendation of a friend, we made an appointment with you and there was a world of difference with you and in your office. It was warm and welcoming and we were treated like a family instead of a pending insurance claim. Within 10 minutes of meeting you, you validated my concerns and were so kind to my bouncing girl. You recommended the ELISA testing and I felt like I was finally heard and seen and like D’s health really mattered to you. Once we started the new diet (after getting the results I expected all along) D’s rash cleared up, she gained 2 pounds in 6 weeks, and she slept 10 hours on the third night. It felt like a miracle and I have you to thank. You took the time to listen to me and you answered my millions of calls and emails and reassured me. You helped me feel like I was doing things well with D and that all of my efforts and hard work were paying off. You helped me believe in my instincts and continue to be an advocate for my kids and what they need, especially when what they needed was different than other kids and families. I was able to start off on the right foot with R when he was born and continued to appreciate your support and advice.
So, thanks so very much for all you have done for us. We look forward to many more years of excellent support and care.
– W. Gregory and family