Celiac Conversations: Ann & Sydney's Journey with Celiac Disease

Living with celiac disease is about so much more than following a gluten-free diet. It's learning to advocate for yourself, navigate social situations, and adjust to a completely new way of life. While everyone's journey is different, hearing the stories of others can provide encouragement, practical advice, and the reassurance that you're not alone.

That's why I created Celiac Conversations, a series where members of the gluten-free community share their personal experiences of living with celiac disease. Whether you're newly diagnosed, raising a child with celiac disease, or have been gluten-free for years, these stories are meant to inspire, educate, and remind us that we can learn, heal, and thrive together.

Today, I'm honored to share the story of Ann and her daughter Sydney from North Carolina. Their journey is one of perseverance, resilience, and finding hope through community.

Living with Celiac Disease

Ann knew something wasn't right for her daughter Sydney long before she received a diagnosis. Sydney experienced severe bloating, constipation, stomach pain, and wasn't growing at the same pace as many children her age. Although the signs were there, it took five years before Sydney was diagnosed with celiac disease in 2007.

For Ann, finally having an answer brought mixed emotions.

"As a mom, I was both relieved to know what was causing Sydney's symptoms and completely overwhelmed at the prospect of removing gluten from our diets."

Shortly after Sydney's diagnosis, Ann realized she also did not tolerate gluten. While she was never formally diagnosed with celiac disease, eliminating gluten from her diet dramatically improved her health. It wasn't until she accidentally consumed gluten again that she truly understood how strongly her body reacted.

"Only after I removed gluten from my diet and then had a few accidental exposures did I realize my body did not tolerate gluten well. After an exposure, I had severe bloating, aches and pains, constipation, mild depression and fatigue, and I wasn't able to sleep for three days."

Looking back, Ann wonders if she'd always been gluten intolerant or if pregnancy triggered her symptoms.

"It's possible that it took 40+ years (to be diagnosed)."

Adjusting to life with celiac disease wasn't easy. One of the biggest challenges was helping Sydney navigate school. Classroom celebrations, birthday treats, and educating teachers, friends, and family about the seriousness of celiac disease required constant effort.

"Every day, someone was bringing in treats that were not gluten-free. Trying to educate friends and family about the reality of the dangers of gluten for Sydney and trying to provide her safe alternatives was difficult. Also, helping her understand that people were not intentionally being hurtful when they didn't consider her gluten-free needs wasn't easy."

As someone who did not enjoy cooking, Ann also had to learn how to prepare meals that were both nutritious and delicious. Over time, however, she found this to be positive.

"The biggest surprise has probably been how Sydney's celiac diagnosis and my gluten intolerance have led to a much healthier lifestyle. I've learned how my body reacts to certain foods, and it feels so good to nourish myself properly."

Another source of encouragement has been connecting with the gluten-free community through social media and in person.

"Knowing Sydney and I are not alone, and there are so many others who understand the difficulties of celiac, is a huge gift."

When asked what she wishes everyone understood about celiac disease, Ann shared two important points. First, eating gluten-free isn't a choice; it's the only treatment for celiac disease. Second, avoiding gluten is about much more than skipping bread. Cross-contact is a constant concern, which means people with celiac disease must be vigilant with every meal, every day.

Travel & Dining Gluten-Free

Although traveling with celiac disease requires planning, Ann doesn't let it keep her from exploring the world.

Her favorite destination is Italy, where she appreciates how knowledgeable restaurants are about gluten-free dining and food allergies.

"They are so much more aware of allergy restrictions."

When dining closer to home, Burton's is one of her favorite gluten-free restaurants in the United States.

No matter where she's headed, Ann always packs gluten-free snacks.

"Because you never know when you'll be able to find a safe meal."

Her best piece of gluten-free travel advice is one every traveler can benefit from:

"I always research restaurants online before eating out."

Doing a little research ahead of time helps remove much of the stress from traveling with celiac disease and allows her family to enjoy their vacations with confidence.

Gluten-Free Favorites

Like many of us with celiac disease, Ann has a few staple snacks such as nuts, popcorn, and protein bars.  Her favorite snack is Stars & Honey protein bars.

Simple, reliable foods like these make busy days and travel much easier while helping ensure safe gluten-free options are always available.

Advice for the Newly Diagnosed

Ann’s advice to those newly diagnosed is to "take a deep breath and focus on simplicity. You don't have to do everything at once. Try to find three gluten-free meals you can rotate while you adjust to this new way of living. Also, seek out community. Having just one celiac friend can be an enormous support."

After years of navigating life with celiac disease alongside her daughter, Ann has learned one lesson that continues to inspire her.

"We are way more resilient than we realize. Watching my daughter grow and adapt, despite the challenges of celiac, has been so inspiring."

Those experiences inspired Ann to write her memoir, Celiac Mom, to serve as a guide and source of encouragement for newly diagnosed families. She hopes that others will find reassurance and practical support as they begin their own gluten-free journey.

Final Thoughts

Ann and Sydney's story is a powerful reminder that while living with celiac disease comes with daily challenges, it also reveals incredible resilience, strength, and the importance of community. From the long road to diagnosis to learning how to navigate school, travel, and everyday life, they've shown that it is possible not just to adjust but to thrive.

Thank you, Ann & Sydney, for sharing your story and for helping others with your book Celiac Mom. Your story offers hope, practical advice, and the reminder that none of us has to navigate this journey alone. Whether you're newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or have been living gluten-free for years, I hope Ann and Sydney's story encourages you to keep learning, keep advocating, and keep building connections within our amazing gluten-free community.

We'd love for you to share your celiac journey with us on Celiac Conversations! Every story helps spread awareness, encourages understanding, and reminds others that they are not alone on their gluten-free journey. By sharing your experiences, you'll help others discover favorite gluten-free restaurants, trusted products, amazing travel destinations, and practical tips for living well with Celiac disease. Together, we can build a supportive community that inspires confidence, connection, and the freedom to....Live Fully. Travel Freely. Gluten-Free.