Update: Ronan Chase

Ronan has been a nightmare with his picky eating.  A true, absolute, pain-in-my-bum nightmare. Blog followers know that I celebrate mealtime accomplishments, if they involve anything other than french fries or chicken nuggets.  His two-year doctor's appointment was a wake-up call for me and one that I wish I had more control over...but I don't.

He's on target for his weight, head circumference and height.  This, was to much surprise to his pediatrician.  Why?  Well, after I told her what his diet consisted of (mainly carbs), she was shocked to see that he was actually growing.  When I told her that he barely eats meat and refuses his disgusting smelling pediatric vitamin, she suggested a test to check his iron.  Sure enough, a toe prick later, little man is anemic.  

I freaked out in my head.  I didn't know what to do.  Ronan is headstrong and stubborn and knows exactly what he wants...or doesn't want...and it has been something extremely frustrating for both Ryan and I.  Many tears have been shed in the kitchen, wondering what in the world we could offer him of nutritious value that he might possibly try.  Nothing.

So, the pediatrician suggested I take him to a speech therapist -- to evaluate his speech, which I was worried about -- and to evaluate his feeding issues.  We went.

His speech is fine.  He might have started out slow and behind, but has caught up and isn't anything they have any concern over.  Not the same could be said about his eating.  They had me bring in a few items he loves to eat (so I picked Original Goldfish -- he's allergic to the cheesy ones -- and his water) and a few items he refuses to eat (I brought a Nutrigrain bar and a banana).  

He was so well-behaved in the office...very considerate in wanting me to feed the therapist some of his goldfish, as well.  She said his chewing is perfect, swallowing is exactly what it's supposed to look like  but that he has "texture issues."  He is hypersensitive when it comes to various textures.  He would not touch the banana (even though he did in the past.)

So now, we are just waiting to hear back from Tricare, as to whether or not they will cover his visits to them so they can "work on Ronan" and get him to touch, try, whatever...different things.

I know whatever is done is going to be more than I could ask for.  At this point, it's like I need a miracle.  To those of you concerned about him, thank you.  Thank you for caring.  He's fine and will eventually move on...but not without help, so let's hope we can get that help from someone. I will keep everyone posted on little dude's progress...