"Our NG tube transition journey as family"

We had an MDT meeting with our son’s community consultant Dr Stewart and his Mencap speech and language therapist Laura recently to decide whether we should NG tube feed our 3 year old whom has complex needs. Once decided, we received a phone-call from Dr Stewart, four days after, who had arranged with one of her fellow consultants (I think Dr Young) for him to be admitted to the Craig ward to transition to NG tube feeds. With this we were contacted by his dietician Hannah that day and informed equipment will be sent out to our home as well as given his feeding plan.

The first day in the Craig ward was a very daunting experience and very hard for our son as well as us when getting the tube fitted. Overall we were there for three days in total. My son found it tough but with the help of the play therapist Gillian providing toys he was easily distracted. Plus being allowed to take walks outside for a change of scenery allowed him relax. Myself and my partner were never more encouraged and relaxed with the help and patience of the nursing staff. Any question was never not answered. Any emotion was never discouraged, we were given time and reassurance. With Hannah also visiting us, we felt acknowledged.

Two months going forward, we now see a different child who has increased in weight, more happy, relaxed and comfortable. We ourselves are less stressed with his eating and have more time to connect with him. Yes we still get stressed when he pulls the tube out but that’s another story.

I have to admit this wasn’t a journey we seen ourselves travelling on with our son, we tried to so hard for a year to establish better feeding but it was up to him. This transition was made it easier by the help of these amazing professionals.