Two-year-old Ivy Anglin's life is defined by a battle most parents couldn't imagine - a constant, insatiable hunger that never subsides. The toddler from Oklahoma faces a daily struggle against a rare genetic condition that could prove fatal if left unmanaged.
The Unseen Enemy: Prader-Willi Syndrome
Ivy lives with Prader-Willi syndrome, a complex genetic disorder affecting appetite, growth, and cognitive development. Her mother, 22-year-old Candice, describes the heartbreaking reality: "She would eat herself to death if we let her."
The condition means Ivy's brain never receives signals that she's full, creating a perpetual state of hunger despite having just eaten. "She's always hungry, always wanting food," Candice explains. "If she sees anyone with food, she'll scream until she gets some."
24/7 Vigilance Required
Ivy's parents maintain constant watch over their daughter, implementing strict safety measures that would seem extreme in any other circumstance:
- All food is kept under lock and key
- Kitchen cabinets and refrigerator are secured with childproof locks
- Continuous monitoring to prevent Ivy from accessing any food sources
"We have to lock everything away," Candice reveals. "The kitchen is like Fort Knox."
More Than Just Hunger
Prader-Willi syndrome presents multiple challenges beyond the constant food obsession. Ivy faces:
- Developmental delays in walking and talking
- Low muscle tone requiring physical therapy
- Potential learning difficulties as she grows older
- Behavioural problems that may emerge with age
Despite these challenges, Ivy's parents describe her as "the happiest child" who brings joy to everyone she meets.
A Mother's Determination
Candice, who also cares for her four-year-old son, has made Ivy's condition her mission. She's become an expert on Prader-Willi syndrome, connecting with other families facing similar battles and advocating for greater awareness.
"We're determined to give Ivy the best life possible," she says. "We'll do whatever it takes to keep her safe and help her thrive."
The family's story highlights the daily realities of caring for a child with rare genetic conditions and the extraordinary measures parents take to protect their children from invisible threats.
