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[quote=Anonymous]OP here and it seems I can’t stay away from this thread. I’ll admit I was feeling overwhelmed and needed a break. Either I’m cavalier about DD’s condition or over anxious and projecting my anxieties onto her.

In one year we’ve seen three pediatric endocrinologists, two pediatric gastroenterologists, our primary care pediatrician to review results twice, weekly therapy sessions to manage anxiety created by all this (and/or contributing to it), and regular checkins with a dietician to help her boost her calories and examine her nutritional needs. I’ve been told she’s fine, just a late bloomer. I’ve been told to relax, let her be. Consider a feeding tube. Wait and see.

All of her doctors are aware of her cousin’s medical history with anorexia. She has been questioned extensively about anxiety concerning food, body image, etc., and no one has mentioned an eating disorder. In fact, her dietician, psychologist, and endocrinologist have all commented on her confidence and positive self image in spite of all of this. I’m starting to suspect ARFID, thanks to one poster on this board, and will explore that, but I’m not a doctor so can’t really say. DD is not a picky eater, but she meets some of the other criteria (inability to eat more than a few bites, fear of vomiting or choking). She clearly needs more help with her anxiety.

One new update: I’ve found a new pediatrician who we will see tomorrow. She’s highly recommended by parents on the special needs thread and by a friend whose college-age daughter suffers from an eating disorder. I am hopeful that she will be able to help us manage DD’s complicated care and hopefully protect whatever healthy self image she has left.

I don’t know what else to say. I don’t think I’m in denial. I don’t think I’m crazy or neurotic like some have suggested. I am trying to process conflicting advice by medical experts, posters who have experiences to share, and others who are quick to judge a mother who is desperate to help her child. Some feel I haven’t done enough. Some feel I’ve done too much. As hard as it’s been to sift through the blame and scrutiny, I am grateful for the generosity and insight. I’m much further along today than I was a week ago.

Oh, and DD ate more in the past three days than I can remember. Apparently, she loves Panda Express:-)[/quote]

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