Feeding Tube Awareness Week

Feeding Tube Awareness Week raises awareness of tube feeding and its positive impact on the lives of people who rely on feeding tubes. A feeding tube provides nutrition to children or adults who cannot eat by mouth or cannot receive enough nutrition through oral eating; some tubes may be temporary, while others are needed long term. Shield HealthCare explains that tubes can deliver liquid nutrition through the nose or stomach to the stomach or small intestine.

The Feeding Tube Awareness Foundation launched the first Feeding Tube Awareness Week in 2011. According to founder Traci Nagy’s account, the observance was created to share the positive story of tube feeding, educate the public about the medical reasons someone may need a tube, and help families feel less alone. It also highlights the everyday challenges faced by tube-feeding families and encourages greater understanding rather than stigma.

The observance has not followed one fixed calendar pattern. It was held during the week of February 10 from 2011 through 2016, followed a five-day schedule from 2017 through 2025, and is listed as a seven-day observance in 2026 and 2027. February dates vary by year.

How to Observe Feeding Tube Awareness Week

Celebrate by learning about feeding tubes and sharing accurate, positive information about tube feeding. People with feeding tubes and their families may share their experiences through social media, blogs, videos, or traditional media, as Feeding Tube Awareness Week’s organizers have encouraged. You can also listen respectfully to families’ stories, challenge misconceptions, or help arrange an educational presentation at a school or community setting. Avoid asking intrusive questions, and follow the lead of people who choose to discuss their experiences.

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