TubieTalk: Tube Feeding in Public
Stepping into public spaces can be an overwhelming experience filled with anxiety and the apprehension of being judged for many individuals relying on tube feeding. The stigma they encounter daily is largely a result of misconceptions. It is crucial to break down these barriers and create a more inclusive society that embraces every individual's unique circumstances. By initiating open conversations, spreading awareness, and fostering empathy, we can pave the way for a compassionate environment where tube-fed individuals can nourish their bodies without feeling self-conscious or judged.
As proponents of inclusivity, it becomes our collective responsibility to transform this narrative. By actively promoting awareness about the significance of tube feeding as a life-sustaining, positive measure and illuminating the medical conditions that require it, we can take significant strides towards de-stigmatizing tube feeding in public settings.
Check out various Tubie Tips for Tube Feeding in public from our very own TubieTalk community:
“When I was still on tube feeds, I had my pump in my backpack/shoulder bag and that was it! Thankfully feeding pumps make our lives so much easier. I have a few friends who bolus feed, and they always prep their feed and flushes in syringes, so that they only have to take the syringe cap off and can feed anywhere & anytime- I used to do the same with my meds and it saved a ton of time while I was out and about!” -Annie
“We do bolus feeds for our little guy. We have a small, insulated bag with ice packs, thermos with the day’s supply of formula, water for flushing, syringe, and a measuring bottle. To avoid having to clean the bag after every feed we put it in the bag as well to keep it cold.” -Paulina
“I have a pouch that holds ice packs and fits around the feed bag. I also use squeasy gear bottles for my son's food, RFB, so that it is already mixed up with a bit of water. And then one for water too. We pack a few syringes for water flushes. As of late I also pack a few snacks because he is wanting to actually eat! I get lots of questions and welcome them! I teach a youth class at church, the first day I showed them my son's tube and how it worked so that they would be aware of it.” -Alesia
“For my son, I use mason jars to carry his blended food and fluids then always make sure to bring paper towels to wipe off the tubes (because we don’t use a pump and just manually feed) and bags to put the used tube and syringe in so they don’t leak everywhere. I also just use a lunch box to carry everything together as well. I just feed him how I normally would at home. Sometimes people stare, but I just smile really big at them and let it roll off my shoulders.” -Emma
“We do bolus feeds as well but use this to fill the syringe! https://squeasygear.com/ there’s some mess but it’s minimal. You just fill the snacker with food and when ready to use, remove the syringe plunger and fill! You can google hacks for this too. I think some people fill directly from the snacker bottle. And contact them for a coupon code! They provide one to the tube feeding community” -Beth
“Just do it!! We were nervous to tube feed in public but once we got used to it, it was no big deal!” -Leanne
“It’s like Dora the Explorer in our world with backpack in hand! Just go about life normal, hook up when it’s time and live life to the fullest!!! #tubieproud” -Jenn
“I’ve never thought about this being a thing. I just feed my baby. Wherever we are, when it’s time to eat, it’s time to eat. Not sure if people stare because I’m usually in my own little world. I’m sure they notice the tubes, but I haven’t had anyone say thing to us nor ask questions.” -Kole
“I use high calorie baby food pouches in place of our blended feed for on-the-go tube feedings. (I bolus feed with syringes) it’s quick, easy, and less messy to put the syringe tip into the pouch to pull up a feed. My son is 8 now and has been tube fed his whole life.” -Ashley
“Gravity fed here; I carry carabiners to clip on my bag at any hooks etc.” -Ibu
“Tube feed my daughter in public proudly, a lot of people ask questions and I welcome their curiosity! Nothing to be ashamed of, no different to breast feeding in public.” -Hope
“I have my pump and feeding tube supplies in my backpack. I Carry my backpack around everywhere I go so I feed myself throughout the day. Also, at work I’m taking all the stuff with me.” -Suzanne
“Cleaning the stoma site with peroxide gets rid of smell and bacteria.” -Brina
“Don’t let it stop you. We use gravity feeds (no pump) when were out.” -Britt
“We would pre-prep the bags! Prime them and set the feed up for a quick and easy transitions if we are out and about! With a busy 3 year old and an infant it was the only way.” -Caitlin
“Biggest tip is HAVE NO SHAME. I do not care where we are, when it’s time to eat I will whip out that bolee bag, fill a syringe and feed her. There is no shame in breast feeding. There is no shame in a messy mouth eater. There is no shame in tube feeding. Feed your babies and be proud of what that nourishment is doing for them.” -Jessica
Through empathy and compassion, we can create a safe and supportive atmosphere where tube-fed individuals can confidently manage their health needs, participate in social activities, and be active members of their communities without the fear of being stigmatized. Let us join hands in embracing tube feeding in public spaces and foster a world that celebrates the diversity of every individual's journey to health and well-being.
