“Gluten was everywhere!”
Two current studies highlight that the COVID-19 infection is linked to a substantially increased risk of developing new-onset autoimmune diseases.
Like many others, I was homeschooled during 8th grade. Being home constantly was draining. I missed my friends and living a normal life. I couldn't understand what was happening in my classes because there was no one to teach me. I started to fall behind. On top of all that, I was starting to get sick quite often, and I didn’t know why. Then, in 9th grade my body began to betray me. Migraines, digestion issues, brain fog, and then anemia. I was in and out of school and worked very hard not to fall behind even further.
Thanks to an amazing pediatrician with a hunch, I was diagnosed with celiac disease. When she mentioned she wanted to test me for celiac disease I thought, “no way, not me.” Then the test came back positive, and we schedule the next round of testing with a pediatric gastroenterologist. They guided me and my family through the process and connected us with a dietitian to help transition my diet and all the products in our home to gluten-free.
The gluten-free diet has had a steep learning curve, and at first it felt impossible. Gluten was everywhere! A lot of my favorite foods were taken away. I hated trying new things and finding replacement foods. Luckily, with the support of my family and friends, I overcame that dread and now I'm on a healthy path. I've regulated my diet and eating habits and am now physically and mentally in the best place I've been in a long time.
I still see my doctors quarterly and have regular bloodwork to track my healing progress. Celiac disease will be with me for the rest of my life. It will affect who I have as roommates, who I date, and my future family. It has inspired me to major in biochemistry and hopefully be able to participate in some research to find a cure.
Late bloomer, up-and-comer, slowpoke. These are all phrases that could explain how high school started for me. Achiever, learner, leader, ready. These are all words that describe how I'm ending my high school career and approaching my next step toward college.
- Ella