When Lorenzo first arrived at the Totally Infant Program at Totally Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, his family was facing an uncertain future. Born early at 35 weeks, Lorenzo was critically ill and spent time in a Level 4 NICU. While the hospital did an excellent job saving his life, feeding quickly became the biggest challenge.
A Daily Struggle With Feeding
Despite Lorenzo showing the ability to finish full bottles, feeding remained a daily battle. His parents were repeatedly told that a feeding tube, also known as a G tube, was the only option. His mother was not convinced.
“I was told over and over that a feeding tube was the only option,” she shared. “I’m sorry, but that didn’t seem right to me. He had the capability of eating his whole bottles, it just wasn’t to the hospital’s standard. It got to a point where my son was decreasing his bottle intake and almost creating an oral aversion. After multiple family meetings regarding the feeding tube, our decision was still no.”
Determined to find another path, the family’s case manager reached out to their insurance case manager, who recommended Totally Kids Rehabilitation Hospital.
“This was life changing, and I couldn’t be more grateful,” Lorenzo’s mother said.
A Simple Change, A Major Breakthrough
When Lorenzo arrived at Totally Kids, he was taking in only about 40 percent of his feeds. During his very first session, our multidisciplinary team carefully observed his feeding mechanics. They quickly realized the issue was not Lorenzo’s ability to feed, but the nipple type he was using.
After switching to a different nipple, Lorenzo began feeding successfully almost immediately.
Within just one week, his intake increased from 40 percent to 80 percent. Over the following days, his progress continued to accelerate. He began finishing bottles with ease and meeting his developmental milestones right on track.
Ready for Home in Just Two Weeks
Within two weeks, Lorenzo was ready to go home. He was thriving, gaining weight, and enjoying mealtime again.
“He was at a standstill for months in the hospital because of feeding,” his mother shared. “At Totally Kids, I immediately saw results from all the therapies they did. They are truly amazing. I would definitely recommend Totally Kids. I’m so glad Totally Kids is there for the kids and truly there to help.”
Thriving Beyond Expectations 🌟
Today, Lorenzo is healthy, happy, and developing beautifully. His journey is a powerful reminder that individualized care, careful observation, and the right support can make all the difference. Sometimes, it really is the little things that change everything.ake all the difference. Sometimes, it really is the little things that change everything.