Invaluable, professional help from Debra Loder, RDN
“Thank you. Your professional help was invaluable and made the difference in my surviving a very difficult period in which I could barely swallow liquids, even water. My diagnosis of achalasia, an inability of my esophagus to swallow and the lower sphincter to my stomach to open, made it almost impossible for me to get any nourishment down. Your suggestion and provision of “Ensure” clear made the difference in the world. Just as important was your personal kindness and concern about helping me deal with my limitations. You alerted me to potential medical pitfalls: dehydration, lack of protein, and had remedies for each. You helped concoct the highest caloric “shakes” and gave me recommendations for “liquid vitamins”. It was wonderful having a medical professional who communicates a genuine caring for the “patient”, as this was a scary time.
I am happy to say, that the Mayo Clinic was able to fit me in early and that the series of diagnostic testing is complete. They have given me a “botox” shot, so I can manage soft foods now. I will be seeing two Mayo Hospital surgeons on Aug 27th, to make a decision on a permanent solution to my “mechanical” problem. I am grateful beyond words. However, the only reason I think I made it as far as I did, was because of your help and resources, and the attention of Dr. Todd Kravetz, and his referral to Dr. Patel. Without this initial referral and support I would be in bad shape. I believe that nutrition is our most powerful drug. I hope that the doctors at Wickenburg Community Hospital make use of your dietary knowledge and skills to help their patients cope with difficult medical situations. Things that we can do for ourselves helps us overcome the feelings of hopelessness when facing real health challenges.
Thank you again.