My daughter was admitted to hospital this week after failing to fight off a sickness virus and losing 14 pounds in 3 weeks. She is making a turn for the better at last, will need to undergo further blood tests etc., but is back at home and eating again.
I was really worried that the hospital staff and doctors would scrutinise me every time I said she was a vegan. I had to answer questions about food to ascertain what could have triggered this and fully expected to be criticised, looked at askance, scolded, interrogated etc.
However, as soon as I explained that I'd read up on nutrition, gave her a good B12 and Vit D supplement and explained her daily diet, I was, without fail, treated with respect. Her decisions re. food were respected also and the catering staff adapted her snacks accordingly. Initially I had to run to the restaurant and ask specially for plain toast/ plain jacket spuds etc. but they quickly made adaptations for her and me.
I was really pleased to see that attitudes have definitely changed and at no point was I made to feel like I was under scrutiny or criticism. One doctor was very interested in how she got her calcium and I explained that according to Stephen Walsh PhD calcium from milk is poorly absorbed anyway and that there is an ongoing debate about the benefits of cows' milk; one that I cannot enter as I am no expert, but I respect my daughter's wishes when it comes to animal welfare and can only take advice and do my best!
Just thought I would share that as lots of the time we are criticised and mocked but this was a really good experience and the doctors and nurses I think learned a bit about veganism in the process. Several commented on how fit and well I appear to be on the diet and the general experience was really positive!
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