
2 minute read
Childhood & Nutrition Support
Jade Lusk | Youth Program Coordinator
Living on PN or EN can feel isolating at times, especially as a child using these rare forms of nutrition. People who use EN and PN may live far apart from another individual using the same or similar treatments. We hear from parents often how their child is impacted by the rarity of long term nutrition support. After our recent online Kidz Klub session one parent told me, “That was my daughter’s first time ever getting to “meet” another kid with a feeding tube like hers, and it was very meaningful for her.” As humans, we see the world around us and find comfort in others who have gone through similar life situations. Along with minimal representation of PN and EN in children’s literature, shows, and other forms of media, it can be hard for a child on these life saving treatments to feel included in their day to day life. We hope to change this one day at a time. From our Kidz Camp at our annual conferences, our Virtual Kidz Klub meetings, and creating online content and physical activities, we see a world where every child feels comfortable with who they are. You are not alone. It just takes a little extra effort to find your people, but it is so worth it.
A few weeks ago we relaunched our Virtual Kidz Klub. As the facilitator for these fun events, my heart was overflowing with the feeling of belonging. Every child should feel that same feeling no matter how nutrition support impacts their lives. As we host more opportunities for safe online childhood connection, we gradually bridge the distance between Oley children who live further apart. It was a much needed connection opportunity for all who joined.
Below is a link to our first Oley coloring page. Used during our online session for HPN awareness week, the kids enjoyed coloring something that represented them. They were so proud to show off their final page at the end of our session. Be on the lookout for more fun activities like this one.
Feel free to print and have your child(ren) color the included page and tag Oley or use #iamoley in a picture of the finished product for all to see. We can’t wait to see them! ■