Emily Simpson is currently navigating a significant challenge in her journey as a parent.
The star of The Real Housewives of Orange County recently revealed that her 10-year-old son Luke has been diagnosed with a rare and serious eating disorder that profoundly impacts his health and well-being.
“Luke has always exhibited characteristics of being a picky eater, but it has escalated over the past year to a concerning level where he refuses to eat altogether,” shared the Bravolebrity during a candid confessional in the season 19 premiere on July 10. “Just two months ago, I took Luke to see a therapist, and after evaluation, she confirmed that he has ARFID, which stands for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder.”
Emily, who is also the mother to her 12-year-old daughter Annabelle and Luke’s twin brother Keller, with her husband of 15 years, Shane Simpson, elaborated on how Luke’s perception of food differs significantly from that of an average child.
“The nutritionist explained to me that Luke struggles to recognize when he feels hungry,” the 49-year-old mother conveyed during a heartfelt conversation with Shane. “In fact, food, in general, tends to disgust him. She asked me, ‘Is he particularly sensitive to smells?’ and I replied, ‘Absolutely. For instance, we’ll enter someone’s home, and he often remarks, ‘It stinks in here.’ I have to remind him that such comments might be considered rude.’
