I had the amazing opportunity to attend two FAACT meetings last week. I learned so much that I could go on and on about: the amazing resources FAACT has to offer; labeling information; the latest information on OIT and quality of life for those with food allergies. I learned more last week from those who attended than I thought I would. Eleanor and her team did an amazing job presenting information that was pertinent, up to date, and covered a large variety of subjects.
What I wasn’t expecting was the bonding that took place. I was in the room with some of the most amazing people who are all working together for those with food allergies. From top scientists, to leaders in the allergy community, to support group leaders, and one very well-known chef (who may or may not have a following of people with allergies). Everyone there had one thing in common. They want to make life better. Better for that 1 in every 13 kids with food allergies, for those who are struggling to find a new normal, for those looking to make change in the world.
I could not have been more proud to be there. To be standing in a room with Caroline Moassessi who let everyone know what it is REALLY like to live the life of a food allergy parent. To Amelia, speaking about Civil Rights associated with food issues. The support group leaders, Carolina, Ashely, Helen, Shanen, Kelly, Susan, Jen, and all the rest of you who were there. To Chef Keith who, along with his staff, made safe meals for all those kids who invaded his restaurants (and you know they can eat!) We are not alone in wanting to make changes for those with food allergies. Every one of us hold a key to putting this puzzle of allergies together. We are stronger together and after being in a room with all of those greats, I could not be more proud to call myself an advocate and could not be happier to call all of you my friends.
Check out the amazing resources here:
The Grateful Foodie http://www.gratefulfoodie.com
So if you have made it this far, I would like you to comment on one of the most important things you have learned to handle life with food allergies. Please comment below to win this awesome prize pack! Contest open to US residents only. One entry per comment, open till 11:59 PM October, 14, 2016. ***PLEASE know these are allergy FRIENDLY products and you need to determine safety for your family.***
Judy
October 7, 2016., 8:56 am •
Always have a back up plan on place when out and about!
turnitteal
October 10, 2016., 9:45 am •
Absolutely! Having a backup plan has helped us many many times!
Caroline
October 7, 2016., 11:58 am •
You are so kind to me, especially after I drug you out shopping during my makeup crisis. We are all so human with our flaws, like my concealer debacle, but when we work together, the power and ability to change is amazing!
turnitteal
October 10, 2016., 9:44 am •
I am always here for you ;) In good times and extreme situations like make up emergencies!
Liz
October 8, 2016., 9:11 am •
One of the most important things I have learned to handle my son's life with a food allergy is inclusiveness. Being included in birthdays and at lunch time is much more than safety. It's a bonding experience for him and his classmates. I want my son to have the same opportunities and experiences that I had when I was a child.
turnitteal
October 10, 2016., 9:44 am •
Exactly. There are so many social issues and quality of life issues that go WITH dealing with the everyday allergy issues. Thanks!
Jenny Miller
October 8, 2016., 10:45 pm •
The most important thing I've learned is that for peace of mind, check and recheck ingredient lists, ask and re-ask at restaurants, with no qualms about it.
turnitteal
October 10, 2016., 9:43 am •
When I was in nursing school we did the "check three times" and I do that now. When I buy it, when I put it away and when I go to serve it! I even have Mr. Teal practicing this!
Denise Rosenow
October 9, 2016., 7:54 am •
Make your children aware of their allergy, the seriousness of it but in a way where they aren't scared to leave the house . Teach them to be confident in themselves and how they handle it
turnitteal
October 10, 2016., 9:42 am •
It's so important to live life while being aware! Well said!
Jody Fogel
October 9, 2016., 9:11 am •
One of the most important things I have learned is that you can have fun and it doesn't always have to include food. We are lucky to have friends that will do activities and celebrate with us where food isn't always the center of the event
turnitteal
October 10, 2016., 9:41 am •
Perfectly said! Celebrate with FUN not food!
Allison Yamamoto-Sparks
October 9, 2016., 10:54 pm •
Being prepared is by far the most important thing I've learned when dealing with my son's food allergies. Overpack safe foods when traveling, call your airline every time you fly, call hotels to check on the availability of refrigerators, microwaves, etc., search for health food stores in the vicinity of where you will be staying and call them to confirm that they have some of your child's safe foods in case of an emergency. Planning and preparation are key!
turnitteal
October 10, 2016., 9:40 am •
Being prepared is HUGE! I always like to tell people that we as consumers need to do our part too. Calling at non-busy times, checking before showing up and ALWAYS having extra snacks packed! We were stuck on a 1.5 hour river cruise for closer to 3.5 hours once- thank goodness I was prepared!
Nikki
October 10, 2016., 4:12 pm •
Read every label everytime and always have a plan B. If you don't have a good support system make your own , find others going through a similar journey and try and educate those around you as much as you can : )
turnitteal
October 10, 2016., 4:58 pm •
Yes! NEVER stop reading them. You never know when there could be a change.
C.Nichole
October 11, 2016., 1:38 pm •
Advocate & Educate! We can only protect those we love by sharing what we know. I'm amazed at those who have no idea any food could potentially be a threat.
turnitteal
October 11, 2016., 3:14 pm •
Such a great point. Unless we teach, others will not know!
Jane Owen
October 12, 2016., 8:17 am •
One of the most important things I've learned is that the Epipen is more important than punctuality. What that means, practically, is that when my teenager forgets his Epipen (like yesterday), I take a deep breath and we go get it. This year, his 13th, has been the year we transitioned to making it his responsibility all of the time. I make every effort not to express frustration if we have to circle back to the house because I want him to know that having the Epipen with him at all times is more important than anything else. Then later, or the next time we go somewhere I give him a reminder. This may seem small but I want him to feel good that he remembered. I want him to know the importance of having it and that it is worth not ever taking a chance. Not sure that's what you are looking for but it is what I am learning and relearning now.
turnitteal
October 12, 2016., 8:46 am •
This is great! I have a tween and this is SO important. Your attitude about going back is something I need to remember in those moments we are running late. Thank you!
Heather
October 12, 2016., 8:42 am •
I always have to remind myself and others that even though my child self carries his Epi-pen, when the time comes, he MAY not be able to self administer it so everyone around him has to be trained at all times.
turnitteal
October 12, 2016., 8:47 am •
We always remind people "Self carry is NOT self administer!" There are adults who aren't able to when they have a reaction so there's little chance a kiddo would be able to. Great reminder.
Alissa
October 12, 2016., 9:39 am •
I've learned "every label, every time" and if I have any doubt at all, I call the manufacturer. And if there's still doubt, I just make my own. For example, I was trying to find an ice cream that was safe for my peanut allergic child, and found one with no warnings so I bought it. It was after regular business hours so I waited until the next day to call the manufacturer. Sure enough, they ran my peanut free ice cream on the same lines as peanut containing ice cream and said they washed it between runs but didn't disclose that on the label. I just decided to buy an ice cream maker and make some myself so I know for sure it is safe. I've also learned that that the people who answer the phone when you call about allergies really like to give the scripted answer and don't really care and its so very frustrating. And lastly, I carry more safe food with me than I think I could possibly need. As other commenter said, you never know when a one hour trip will turn into four!
turnitteal
October 12, 2016., 9:42 am •
All so true. If there is even any doubt, don't give it to them till you get a chance to call! Thanks.
Christine
October 14, 2016., 7:43 am •
Always read labels including ones you have read before because there may be changes.
turnitteal
October 14, 2016., 10:31 am •
Every label, every time! So important.
Carey Moran
October 14, 2016., 4:00 pm •
Find Joy in finding foods you can have! Don't think of all the food you can't, but focus on what you CAN!
Colleen
October 14, 2016., 8:55 pm •
Trust your instincts
Rashad
October 31, 2016., 5:34 pm •
Thank you, nice read.