Before the gastrostomy
Sofia used to be fed by mouth, but swallowing and feeding became increasingly difficult. Aspiration, vomiting and the challenge of getting enough calories and fluids made everyday nutrition stressful and medically risky.
Why a direct route to the stomach became necessary
A gastrostomy provides access directly to the stomach. For Sofia, it is used for nutrition, hydration and medication when oral feeding cannot safely meet her needs.
The decision was made as part of her medical care, not because the family “gave up” on feeding. It was a different route to the same goal: keeping her nourished and safer.
What changed afterwards
The family saw important improvements. The aspiration episodes they had been dealing with reduced, food and medication were easier to keep down, and Sofia began to gain weight again.
Weight gain is especially important because she is preparing for complex spinal surgery and needs the strongest nutritional condition her body can achieve.
Daily life with a gastrostomy
Tube feeding means preparing formula, water and medication, using syringes and feeding equipment, checking the stoma and watching closely for any sign of irritation or intolerance.
It creates a safer feeding route, but it does not remove the work. It becomes part of the family’s everyday routine.
From the tube to a low-profile button
In August 2026 Sofia was admitted in Cluj for a gastrostomy replacement as the team prepared for the next stage of her device. The procedure went well and the family continued the follow-up needed for the low-profile button.
Why it matters for the next medical stage
Stable nutrition, hydration and reliable medication are essential before major surgery. The gastrostomy helps the family work toward those goals every single day.