We did it – we made it 1 year.  When I told my friend this she asked whether it’s been a long or a short year and my response – both.  It’s definitely been a year of ups and downs but overall she’s doing very well.

Most importantly her Celiac blood results are in the normal range and she’s off of all laxatives!!! She knows what she can or can’t eat, she’s very diligent about asking adults before she tries food and we’ve found plenty of food that she’s willing to eat.  We’ve learned how to navigate birthday parties, vacations, and other assorted days away from the house.  We dealt with school issues and are very hopeful next year will be even better.  We’ve met other Celiac families so she doesn’t feel alone.  We’ve fundraised and participated in a Celiac walk with friends and family.

Of course there’s been frustration and when I told her today was 1 year of being gluten free she asked, “Does that mean I don’t need to be gluten free anymore?” It broke my heart and we spoke about it, but she is only 5.

So what does this mean being 1 year Gluten Free? Not much, it’s 1 year out of a lifetime.  However, it makes me proud thinking of how overwhelmed we were this time last year.  We’ll continue to advocate for her so she continues to have the best life possible and tonight – we’ll celebrate with my new gluten free cake making skills 🙂