In re Sofia D. CA2/2

FACTS

Elena D. (born in 1996) and Sofia D. (born in 2002) are daughters of Maria and Romeo D. (Mother and Father).2 Elena has diabetes. In 2012 and 2013, medical providers reported the parents for neglect, because Elena’s blood sugar levels were not monitored, placing her at risk of harm. DCFS deemed the reports unfounded. In May 2014, Elena was hospitalized with ketoacidosis, a life-threatening condition: her diabetes was “out of control.” She had been hospitalized four times in two years, twice within the last two weeks. Her blood glucose level was 445; a normal level is under 100. Dr. Daniels, an endocrinologist, was concerned that Mother and Father did not check Elena’s urine with keto strips, and did not call the doctor to say that they had run out of the strips. Elena is at risk for neurological damage or death. Mother and Father were “cooperative,” yet Dr. Daniels felt they do not exercise control over Elena, who cannot manage her condition on her own. Elena admitted that she neglects her medical condition. She realizes that she should eat a healthy diet and confessed that she “guesses” at her glucose level and the appropriate insulin dosage. Elena, Sofia and Isabel live…