We’re the Ward family! My husband and I have been high school sweethearts for years, and we have three kids: two sons, ages six and four, and a one-year-old daughter, Scarlett, who has a feeding tube. When Scarlett was just a baby, she kept throwing up all the time. It didn’t take long before she was hospitalized multiple times because she was failing to thrive. We tried everything, breast milk, different formulas, dairy-free options, even with every formula we tried, she couldn’t gain the weight easily.
After numerous hospital visits, tests, and procedures, doctors discovered Scarlett had delayed gastric emptying and severe GERD. At just three months old, she was started on several medications, and a nasogastric (NG) feeding tube was placed. Being parents that is not easy to saw their children in that such difficult condition. Sometime parents really need to be strong to face such problem and deal it with patience. As doctor told us that This tube went through her nose and into her stomach, allowing us to feed her slowly and safely. Combined with her medications, the tube helped her finally start gaining weight.
After learning how to use the feeding tube and receiving training from the hospital, we were sent home. Adjusting to our “new normal” was overwhelming. Our house quickly filled with medical supplies, medications, and feeding tube equipment. Scarlett had a strict schedule for feeds and medications, and we had constant follow-up appointments. She had weekly weight checks, visits from an in-home nurse three times a week, physical and occupational therapy, and multiple appointments with specialists that were hours away. On top of that, we spent countless hours on phone calls with insurance companies, medical supply providers, and doctors, all while trying to care for our two other kids and maintain our relationship. It was exhausting, but we knew it was worth every bit of stress to see Scarlett healthy and thriving.
The NG tube quickly became difficult as Scarlett grew more active. As she was carrying nose tube for longer she became use to it. She would pull it out easily, and we often had to hold her down to insert a new one, but that was little harsh to fix it , put new tube, her face was red all the time tube irritates her which was heartbreaking. Her cheeks were constantly irritated from the tape holding the tube in place. After researching and talking with other parents in similar situations, we decided a gastrostomy (G) tube, a surgical feeding tube that goes directly into the stomach was the best option. Though surgery felt scary, talking with other families who had made the switch gave us confidence.
Scarlett had her G-tube surgery at six months old. Just a few days after being discharged, she was back to her playful, smiling self. The G-tube is easier to manage, it only needs to be changed every three months and she can’t pull it out on her own. While we still have a full schedule of giving medications, running her feeding pump, preparing formula, and managing appointments, every moment is worth it to see her thriving.
Right now, Scarlett is still entirely tube-dependent, though she can handle very small amounts of liquids or purees by mouth. We’re slowly introducing new foods to keep her interested and prevent oral aversion. She loves little tastes of popsicles, baby food purees, and other fun treats. We hope one day she may be able to eat more independently, but for now, the tube gives her the nutrition she needs to grow and stay healthy.
Scarlett has the most amazing older brothers who cheer her on every day. They call her “super tubie” and are constantly encouraging her. To give her hope and courage her brother used to entertain her by calling her name as tubie he makes her laugh and hope to live. Their bond is so strong and heartwarming. Sharing her story online has helped us connect with other families, learn tips and tricks, and find a supportive community. This journey feels lighter because we know we are not in it alone.
We want other parents to know that feeding tubes save lives and can help children thrive. Finding support, whether in person or online, is so important. Even small pieces of advice from someone who’s been through the same challenges can make a huge difference. Our goal in sharing Scarlett’s story is to educate others, raise alertness, and show that families going through similar situations are not alone. This journey is ongoing, and some days are overwhelming, but we take it one day at a time. Scarlett is thriving, happy, and full of life. We’re grateful for every small milestone, every smile, and every moment we get to spend with her. With love, patience, and the support of our family and community, we continue to navigate life as the Ward family, stronger together, one step at a time.
