A mother's unwavering instinct proved to be the crucial factor in saving her young son after medical professionals initially dismissed her concerns over a single, unexplained bruise.
A Mother's Nagging Doubt
In September 2024, Ceeariah Madden, a 31-year-old from Poinciana, Florida, was dressing her one-year-old son, Delswan Madden III, for nursery. She noticed a black and blue mark on his toe. While her first thought was that children often get such marks, a persistent feeling told her something was amiss.
"He was acting completely normal, not in pain," she recalled. "But something didn't sit right with me." After hours of internal debate, she decided to trust her gut and took Delswan to the emergency room.
The Fight for Answers
At the hospital, Madden felt embarrassed bringing in what seemed a minor issue. Doctors examined the boy, noted the bruise didn't appear to bother him, and prepared to send them home. Feeling brushed off, Madden made a desperate plea.
"I begged the doctor to please just run blood work," she said. The doctor reluctantly agreed. The tests revealed Delswan's blood sugar was dangerously low. After a feeding attempt failed and his levels plummeted to 27, the situation was recognised as critical.
Delswan was immediately transferred to a major hospital in Orlando, where he spent eight weeks undergoing countless tests and specialist consultations.
A Life-Changing Diagnosis
After two gruelling months, Delswan received a diagnosis: Congenital Hyperinsulinism (CHI). This serious genetic condition causes the pancreas to produce excessive insulin, leading to perilously low blood sugar.
"Hearing that diagnosis was shocking. I was in complete disbelief," Madden shared, overwhelmed by fears for her son's future.
Now aged two, Delswan requires continuous, 24/7 feeding through a tube to stabilise his blood sugar. "We carry his pump in a backpack everywhere we go," Madden explained, noting that normal toddler activities now demand meticulous planning.
A Message to All Parents
Madden has used her TikTok platform to document their journey, hoping her experience empowers other parents. Her advice is unequivocal.
"My message to other parents is simple but important: do not let doctors dismiss you or make you feel crazy," she stressed. "Do not be afraid to ask questions, request tests, or demand answers. We know our children... Trust your instincts because doing so may just save a life."
