When Graciela began complaining about intense stomach pains and losing a significant amount of weight over a short period of time, her mom decided to take her to Nicklaus Children’s Hospital to run some tests.

They met pediatric gastroenterologist Dr. Lina Felipez, who recommended a colonoscopy, an endoscopy and some extra imaging. To their surprise, Graciela had ten ulcers and was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease.

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the lining of the digestive tract. It can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, anemia and fatigue.

To control the inflammation, strict measures were taken in which Graciela was unable to eat any type of food for an entire month while taking medication.

Although Graciela continues to manage her Crohn’s disease on a daily basis, it is under control. She and her mother are extremely thankful to Nicklaus Children’s Hospital for finding a solution.

Support Graciela and more kids like her who seek quality healthcare at Nicklaus Children’s. Your support makes a difference.