Video: “I Have Never Eaten Anything in My Life,” 17-Year-Old Shares Life with Rare Stomach Condition

Seventeen-year-old Emma has opened up about her life with gastroparesis, a rare condition that has left her without a functioning stomach since birth. In a TikTok video posted in July, Emma, who goes by the handle #emmakok, revealed that she has never eaten a proper meal and depends entirely on feeding tubes for nutrition.

The video gained renewed attention on Monday, going viral as viewers responded to her extraordinary story. Emma explained that her stomach is paralyzed and cannot digest food, which is why she relies on two feeding pumps for nutrition, a system she has used since infancy. She said she can only consume tiny amounts like honey, tea, or water, but has never been able to enjoy foods like hamburgers, chocolate, or spaghetti.

Emma also highlighted the challenges of living with a little-known condition. “Gastroparesis is not a well-known disease, and that makes it hard for us patients,” she said. She described how some doctors dismiss symptoms as anxiety or stress, leaving patients feeling misunderstood.

Through her video, Emma hopes to raise awareness about gastroparesis and encourage people to listen to those affected by the condition.

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