Ketogenic Diaries

Yesterday, we checked in here at Children's Hospital to begin the ketogenic diet. The day began with a short fast, then Annie had her first keto-meal for lunch. Things have been going well, and she seems to be tolerating the new higher fat diet okay. We'll go up to 1.5 gm. fat per carb today, and 2 gm. of fat per carb tomorrow. Most kids eventually go up to 4 gm. fat per carb, but we'll stay at 2:1 for now. Ketosis should kick in here soon-which, as I understand it, means she is burning fat instead of sugar. Again, the high fat diet controls seizures.

And, speaking of seizures, last night Miss Kim and I took her upstairs to the cafeteria to have dinner, parked her wheelchair next to the table, and boom--head drop seizure into the edge of the table. Of course, just as her screaming began to die down, the bump under her eye swelled up, then turned black and blue. She recovered soon enough, and after we got her safely back into her room, she began using her right hand and arm to reach and grab for things. Probably wanted to get a hold of the nurse call button, I don't know.

Now,a question in my mind: was the increased use of her arm a result of the fast? She's not doing it so much today, but it was a very encouraging sign last night. She was also more alert than she's ever been. It's interesting to see her fluctuations, and although I'm disappointed that she's not using her right arm/hand as much today, I'm excited that the ability is in there.

More later,

Jean

Ah Lord GOD! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and by Your outstretched arm! Nothing is too difficult for You. Jeremiah 32:17