This is my first post on Websleuths, however, I've been a long-time lurker. And, like many who have posted before me, I have followed this case since first learning of Garnett Spears. What that little boy experienced in his short life is heartbreaking and there is no viable excuse for what Lacey Spears did to her child - munchausen syndrome by proxy or not. Child abuse is child abuse, murder is murder.
I finally decided to break my silence and post as I felt I could offer some perspective as to feeding tubes. I am not a parent, however, I am an individual who has experienced living with a feeding tube. I had a J tube (a tube that inserts through the abdomen into the jejunum - it lies in the small intestine) as well as a Corpak tube that functioned as an NJ tube (a tube inserted through the nose and then fed through the stomach and left to rest, again, in the jejunum). While the enteral feeding tubes I had were different from a G tube, which I believe Garnett had, the basic function and care remains the same.
Enteral feeding is necessary for many in order to maintain health and life. I am not in a position to determine whether Garnett required the feeding tube that he had. It is certainly suspicious with the information that we have now, but I do not find blame with the physicians who placed and monitored the tube. I can say, from experience, that doctors do not place feeding tubes unless there is a reason to do so. As an adult, I can speak on my behalf, provide an accurate medical history, and make medical records accessible so that the doctors providing my care can treat me effectively. I do believe that Lacey manufactured events and caused symptoms in Garnett that caused concern and therefore indicated that a feeding tube would be appropriate. In my opinion, the blame falls squarely on Lacey Spears. And, I make no bones about the fact that I hope she is prosecuted to the fullest extent and receives a punishment that fits the crime (although, this is a misnomer as no sentence would be adequate considering she took the life of another human being).
To speak to nutrition received through a feeding tube, it's not a simple process. While tube feeding is not difficult to maintain, proper nutrition can be. Manufactured nutrition is not equal to the nutrition we receive via eating by mouth. And, it is certainly not as pleasurable. While receiving enteral feeding, not only did I see a gastroenterologist and primary care physician on a regular basis, but I was also required to see a dietitian who helped ensure that I was maintaining my weight and receiving nutrition appropriate to my individual needs. At the same time, my GI doctor monitored my condition and determined that the feeding tube was still medically indicated. And, my primary care physician monitored all of my labs in addition to coordinating my care. It was very much a team effort and one hand always knew what the other was doing. I was an active member of that team. While Lacey certainly would have done the same in an effort to boost her status, I shudder to think about how she was manipulating such a delicate situation and my heart shatters when I think of the horrors Garnett endured.
I received my nutrition through a formula sold commercially and which required a prescription. To my knowledge, this is how most formulas are sold - with valid prescriptions. Although, I am not immune to the fact that individuals can purchase such products through other sources. And, there are less expensive preparations available without prescriptions, but, any good doctor would require a dietitian to be involved in the decision-making when choosing a formula. Continued medical management is key. I would say that the vast majority of individuals receiving nutrition through a tube use a commercial product. However, there are some who do puree fruits, vegetables, and other foods in order to use while tube feeding. However, the majority of individuals who do this do so in addition to a commercially available product. In order to achieve proper nutrition, one would need to be acutely aware of their vitamin and mineral needs in order to supplement the fruits and vegetables being used. It is not an easy process and should not be undertaken without close medical supervision. And, it shouldn't be done without the assistance of someone who can monitor labs, weight, and one's overall health.
I think it stands to mention that seasoning for taste is ridiculous. No feeding tube allows an individual to taste the food. Oh, how I wish it would. But, it doesn't happen. Nutrition through a tube is just that. It is for medical necessity, it is to keep one alive, but it is not for pleasure or taste.
The fact that Lacey took it upon herself to abuse her son in this way makes me sick. I have experienced the symptoms relating to electrolyte imbalances and it is a hell I do not wish on anyone. It can be excruciatingly painful and there were times that I'd wish to just go peacefully. I am grateful that my body fought to stay alive and I am immensely thankful to be here today. And, without a feeding tube (although, I did receive life-saving nutrition through a tube only 2 weeks ago and appreciate my doctors and the blessing it is to receive necessary medical care). However, knowing what that little boy experienced is nearly too much for me to handle.
Imagine, a whole life spent in and out of hospitals...due to a parent that took it upon herself to make him sick. Childhood illnesses are real and this is a slap in the face to parents who fight to keep their sick children alive. It is a slap in the face to the little ones who fight to stay alive. Garnett's pain was unnecessary. It was evil. May he rest in peace and may Lacey be forever burdened and haunted by what she did.
