PFD Beyond Preschool: Preparing Parents and Providers for What’s Next
April 14, 2023 3:00 pm
Presentation Summary
In this session participants will get a comprehensive firsthand account of how pediatric feeding disorder manifests and changes throughout the child’s lifespan. A panel of parents and professionals from the Family Advisory Committee will outline their experiences with PFD; show videos and first-hand accounts from children; and share considerations for navigating PFD as it matures and changes with the child.
Learning Objectives
- Identify 3 common transitions that families face with older children who have PFD
- Compare and contrast differences that affect younger vs older children with PFD
- Summarize at least two key challenges faced by parents and providers who have/work with older children who have PFD
Speakers
Amber Mieras (Family Advisory Committee Chair)
Amber Mieras is the mother of Jax, 8, and Nayeli, 4. Amber connected with Feeding Matters when Jax was an infant and she was looking for information about feeding challenges. She found a wealth of support and knowledge about feeding tubes, therapies, and connections with other families that impacted her entire family. Over the last 7 years, Amber has continued to utilize the Feeding Matters resources and support, serving as the chair on the Family Advisory Council, as a mentor with the Power of Two program, as well as presenting at the 2021 PFD Conference. Amber was an elementary school teacher, mentor, and professional development facilitator for over 16 years serving the Phoenix area as well as a small community outside of Boston. In her spare time, she loves running and hiking, cheering on her alma-mater Arizona State University Sun Devils, and her beloved Red Sox. She loves spending time with her family, watching movies, and being outdoors.
Financial Disclosures: None.
Non-financial Disclosures: Chair of the Family Advisory Council; PFDA Support Pillar Lead; and volunteer with Feeding Matters. Amber is a parent of a child with PFD.
Dana Kizer MS, OTR/L
Dana is a pediatric occupational therapist who specializes in feeding and sensory processing. She grew up accompanying her younger brother Sean to feeding therapy. Her personal experience with PFD over many years inspired her to pursue occupational therapy to help other families navigate the complex world of feeding disorders.
Financial Disclosures: Receives a salary from Texas Children’s Hospital.
Non-financial Disclosures: Serves on the Feeding Matters Family Advisory Committee. Dana is a sibling of a young adult with PFD.
Yomi Ogedegbe
Yomi is mom to Joshua and Joanna. Joshua (7) has had feeding challenges since he was 2 and was recently diagnosed with oral dysphasia. He is currently in feeding therapy and we still have a long journey ahead but he is gradually making incremental progress.
Financial Disclosures: None.
Non-financial Disclosures: Is a member of the Feeding Matters Family Advisory Committee. Has a child with PFD.
Liz Wiseman Smith
Liz Wiseman Smith is a parent of two amazing children. She is passionate on all issues related to pediatric feeding disorder. She hopes she can use her own experience to help other parents and practitioners. When not planning new foods to introduce to her kiddo, Liz is a working professional.
Financial Disclosures: None.
Non-financial Disclosures: Is a member of the Feeding Matters Family Advisory Committee. Has a child with PFD.