TubieTalk: I am a Proud Tubie Because...
In honor of Feeding Tube Awareness Week 2023, TubieTalk joined forces with the tube feeding community and gathered all the reasons why Tubies are proud of who they are. It is important to note that Tube feeding is a way of providing nutrition to individuals who are unable to eat or drink normally. This can be due to a variety of medical conditions, such as severe disability, injury, or illness. Tube feeding is not a sign of weakness or a failure, but rather a testament to a person's strength and resilience. For some individuals, tube feeding allows them to continue living a full and active life, despite any challenges they may face.
In addition, tube feeding can also be seen as a symbol of hope and a positive outlook. It is a reminder that even in difficult circumstances, individuals can still receive the nourishment they need to thrive. Being proud of this can be empowering, as it demonstrates the ability to overcome obstacles and find solutions to challenges. Below you will find all the TUBE-tastic reasons why Tubies are proud of who they are!
“I am a proud tubie because it has given my life back” -Andrea
“It saved my life and has also given me Parts of my life back. It saved me while I was at my lowest, and gave me energy to reach my highest.” -Abbey
“My daughter is a proud tubie because it's allowed her to grow incredibly healthy and strong.” -Brandi
“Proud to showcase my tubes so patients can normalize the amazing gift that being tube reliant is.” -Shauna
“I’m a proud tubie mummy to my little boy, finally we have a glimmer of hope that he can finally get well again.” -Kelly
“I'm a proud tubie mama because my baby is alive.” -Sally
“My ability is greater than my disability. Having a feeding tube has afforded the opportunity to live a normal life doing the things I love most. - Hiking - Fencing – Traveling.” -James
“I am pursuing a midwifery degree while being tubefed!” -Hannelore
“It helps me survive the chaos.” -Eli
“I proud to be a Tubie because is keeps me alive and enjoying my time with family and friends. I can wheelchair dance again, modeling and hoping. It is a gift, although sometimes I hate it.. if people are staring.. but then I remind myself it’s my LIFE LINE.” -Nancy
“I’m a proud Tubie because they keep me alive.” -Adele
“I survived head&neck cancer 5x. Still here. When I was discharged, my Gtube replaces my necrotic jaw, mouth and throat. It’s basically a superpower.” -Ibu
“I’m proud because I would let my limitations define me.” -Barbara
“It’s the reason I’m alive -allows me to maintain weight even during flares -have some semblance of normalcy back - allows me to pursue my OT degree.” -Hannah
“I’m a proud tubie because I’m still alive thanks to my tubes. It’s also slowly giving me my life back. I’m able to do fun things instead of just staying alive. Hopefully one day I’ll be able to work again and have kids.” -Bente
“It’s gives me freedom!” -Kym
“I can live my life to the fullest thanks to my tube!”-Olivia
“We don’t let the tube limit our son’s life experiences. We still travel, play sports, etc.”-Britt
“My tube saved my life!! I have gastroparesis and I finally have nutrition again.”-Anonymous
“I’m not malnurished and underweight anymore.”-Ella
“It saved my life!”- Cyrene
“She continues to love being involved in food without tasting.”- Lorenza
“My tube gave me my life back and made me me again.”- Hailey
There are so many reasons to be a proud Tubie! We would like to thank everyone for sharing their favorite reason of why they are a proud Tubie + loved seeing everyone come together this week to continue to build advocacy for the tube feeding community. TubieTalk wishes everyone a happy Feeding Tube Awareness Week 2023!
