Kellie-

I'm a surviving caretaker. When my Uptown went through treatment, he had the peg but could NEVER use it. Like Cathy G - he just pushed through it. Honestly one of the most difficult aspects of the tube was its appearance. Who in the world can feel "normal" with this huge hose hanging from their abdomen? It is a cruel reminder and Ed retreated from all activities because of the old tube's tendancy to leak, pop the top and the smell that goes with both. We uesd Sof Wick IV Sponges around the base of the tube to absorb some of the oozing and promptly sprung for a MIC Key. Go seach out on Baxter's website and ask her doctor to write the Rx which will include the size (CM and french). It's like a button that has this is the cool part - a locking top AND snazzy attachments for meds/entral feeding etc.

'Made a world of difference on Ed's perspective. He had no choice but to eat even when it tasted like poop but he did have a choice on the button. He was like a different person and I really believe not having the hanging peg was the first step to "normal" and it really rejuvinated his quest to eat whatever it took without hurting so much.

Hang in there! I'm so excited she hates the taste of food - because that means she CAN eat! Send her our encouragement and love, too!

Susan