New School Year, Fresh Blog

I am changing locations! (Link in the right column will take you to my new site!)

14,052 page views, 1,117 days, 257 likes, 84 posts, 53 comments, 9 food allergies, 5+ allergic reactions, 1 girl, and somehow, I've made it here.

Three years ago, I created this blog. My goal was to reach out to my peers - other teens with food allergies - to help them  by sharing my own experiences. This original idea turned into so much more. I found out that it wasn't the other teens that needed my help, but their parents, the moms and dads that struggle with understanding how their allergic teens feel. Although over the last few months I've had trouble keeping up with my blog because of school work, my full-time summer job, the start of college applications, and the beginning of my senior year, I can say wholeheartedly that this experience over the last three years has influenced me tremendously. It means the world to know that I might have helped even one person, but based on the comments and messages from my followers, I can proudly recognize that I've helped more people than I could have ever dreamed of when I first started this project. As I begin to wrap up my years as a teenager and start to become a young adult, I look forward to continuing what I've been doing.

Julia Glass once said, "When it comes to life, we spin our own yarn, and where we end up is really, in fact, where we always intended to be."
I never knew this was where I was going to end up, but I am so excited that this is where I am.

With that being said, I now proudly present to you my new and refreshed look for Allergy Alli! I'm looking forward to my last year as a high schooler and everything that I will get to share with you!

-Alli

Feel Free to Contact Me

I've reached over 11,000 page views on my blog and 200 likes on my Facebook page...! I can't believe it! Thank you everyone for your support and kind words about all that I've been doing!

Please feel free to email me at any time at allergyalli@gmail.com or comment on my posts here and on my Facebook page (facebook.com/allergyalli). If you ever have questions, concerns, or just need someone to talk to, I'm happy to help!

I hope everyone is happy and safe with the start of school these past few weeks!

-Alli

Allergic Living Magazine: Trending Teens

In the Fall Issue of Allergic Living Magazine, Alisa Fleming wrote an article called "Trending Teens" featuring teenage food allergy bloggers. I was recommended through the FARE Teen Advisory Group that I'm in to be a part of this article! Check out my section on page 65! (Click on the image to enlarge it)

Let me know what you think!

-Alli

A Feeling of Gratefulness at the End of Summer

Summer has come to a close, and for me, it was as busy as ever! From teaching swim lessons to acting in a musical and starting preseason cheer practice, my activities were nonstop! Although it was filled with laughter and fun, I once again found myself in the reigns of an allergic reaction.

It was the evening of August 14^th. We were at a diner that had always been safe in the past. It could have been safe that day too if I hadn't been so foolish. I was in such a good mood, laughing and joking with my sister and mom that when I ordered I wasn't as clear with the waiter as I should have been. I was blinded by my happiness and it cost my health.

The side of bacon that I ordered was not cooked separately like I had asked, and my reaction started almost immediately with a small bump on my lip. It then went to my stomach and I knew there was no way to avoid getting sick. It finally ended 2 and a half hours later when I threw up.

Those 2 and a half hours reminded me just how few of the people in my life understand what I'm going through.

They've never reached that moment when you know that something is wrong.
They've never had to admit to someone that you made a horrible mistake and feel sick.
They've never had the fear of everything about to happen as your body goes weak.
They've never felt the aching pain in my stomach that makes me beg for it to end.
They've never felt the tears well up in my eyes as I sit in front of the toilet and wait.
They've never dreaded that moment when you know that you're going to be sick.
They've never prayed for that moment to finally come, knowing that it would at last be over.
They've never felt the exhaustion that follows it all.

But they've also never known what its like to see the concern in the eyes of those around you. They've never felt the hug from someone that may never really understand what you're going through, but is determined to stay by your side anyway.


They have never felt love quite like I have. 


Everyday I'm grateful for the family and friends that I've been blessed with, but it's those days where it all goes wrong that I'm truly reminded of how lucky I am.

To all of you that are a part of my life, I don't thank you enough. I hope you know that I appreciate you in everything you do for me.

-Alli

The Revolutionary "Snack Committee"

The time has come for another week of Vacation Bible School, and I can't wait to be a counselor again! Except, this year, I'm not just a counselor. I've been chosen to be a part of the "Snack Committee." One major aspect of the snacks during VBS is that they have to go along with the overarching theme of the day, so the snack items are listed as a part of the program. This could be something like "Masterpiece Munchies," which is decorating sugar cookies with frosting, sprinkles, etc, (showing that even though you're different, Jesus loves you). Along with the 4 other adults in the snack committee, our job was to find allergy-friendly substitutes for some of the ingredients for each day. But the thing I like the best about it is that EVERYONE is having the allergy-friendly version, so no one feels left out at all. I remember so many times when growing up where I'd go to parties and programs that might have had allergy friendly options, but everyone else was still eating something else. Even though I accepted this as a part of my life, I couldn't help but wish I could be like everyone else sometimes.

This revolutionary idea of everyone eating something that is safe makes me that much more excited to be a part of it! I can't wait to tell the children with food allergies that the snacks are safe for them and see the looks on their faces, for those expressions are the reason why I joined this committee. Not for myself and so that I can have a safe snack, but to see the pure excitement and relief on their faces as they realize they can have a safe snack.

I can't wait for it to begin tomorrow, and I hope the kids are as excited as I am!

-Alli

A Slice of Cake

The other day in my math class, two Junior girls walked in and gave my teacher a slice of cake. My teacher thanked them, and once they left, he immediately put it in his closet. He explained himself by saying that he hates eating in front of other people that aren't eating. Multiple people told them that they didn't care, and as the class broke out in chatter about it, I said, to no one in particular, "Eh I'm used to it." One girl turned around to me with a dropped jaw and said to me "Aw Allison, that's so sad...!"

But that statement was not meant to be sad or make it seem like I wanted pity. It was a simple side comment that was nothing but a fact. I think that's something that not a lot of people understand. Sure, having food allergies can be emotional, but for me, its just become a way of life. It has never been any other way for me, and honestly, I don't want it any other way right now. I've learned so much about myself because of the situations and experiences I've had with my food allergies; if I was ever given the opportunity to restart my life without them, I would never take it. I eventually want to grow out of my food allergies, the sooner the better, but who wouldn't? However, I wouldn't ask for them to have never existed.

I know I've written this before, but when I was younger and didn't yet understand that food allergies have shaped my life, I frequently asked my mom, "why me?" She always reassured me with a simple statement: that there's a special plan for me and that someday it would make sense. As I've gotten older and matured, it all does make sense now. I find myself excited to inspire others to be who they are despite their food allergies, because no matter what labels we have to read or foods we have to avoid, we are normal, every-day people, just like everyone else. I recently reached over 10,000 page views on my blog, and it suddenly became apparent to me: this is my special plan. This blog and all of my readers, despite their small numbers, are part of why my I'm here. Because even though I may not have hundreds of readers everyday, if I help one person and inspire one life, then this is all worth it.

Thank you guys for helping me find my purpose.

-Alli

Food Allergy Action Month

It's Food Allergy Action Month created by FARE, and I have been loving all of their posters and facts that they've put up on their website, and I will be sharing them on my Facebook page throughout the month (www.facebook.com/allergyalli). I'm excited that action is finally being spread from just a week to a whole month. How are all of you celebrating this big step in food allergy awareness and action? Tell me in the comments or post on my page! I'd love to hear from you!

-Alli

A Sweet Friend's Sweet 16

Recently, I attended my best friend's Sweet 16, and it was so much fun! But, as per usual, I had to bring my own food, though that was in no way a problem. (Again, as per usual- I've gotten so used to it that it doesn't even phase me anymore!) Anyway, the reason I'm sharing this with all of you is because of what my friend told me before the party.

Whenever I go to parties, I make a point of asking the host what she is going to be serving. This way, whatever food I bring can be similar to what everyone else is eating. As soon as I asked my friend, she looked up at me and said "Oh yeah! Just so you know, I talked to the manager and told them my friend has severe food allergies and that she has to bring her own food. They told me it wouldn't be a problem and that they can heat anything up. So bring whatever you want!" She said this in such an off-handed manner, but I gave her the biggest smile. Yes, she is one of my best friends, but I have never expected anyone to do something like that -to look out for me- unless I specifically ask them to. When I told her that, she looked at me and said "Of course I would ask! You're my friend!" in a tone that said she's surprised I would expect anything less.

Very often, I find it hard to trust anyone besides myself with handling my food allergies, be it a friend, or even a sibling or parent. However, from this friend, I've learned that even though it may be hard to trust other people with certain aspects of my food allergies, the ones that truly care will try and help; She showed me that even though food allergies are hard to handle, I will never have to do it alone.

So to my friend, thank you for always being there, and helping me even on your special day. You truly are a great friend!

-Alli

16 Years of Success

Surrounded by my friends and classmates at 10:38 AM yesterday, January 20th, I celebrated the minute I entered the world 16 years ago. With food allergies, this birthday becomes even more monumental. 

I have:

• Never used my Epipen
• Avoided Hospital visits due to reactions
• Found true friends who I trust to support me
• Learned the hard way the dangers of food allergies
• Taught my friends and family the basics of food allergies
• Been on national television sharing my thoughts 
• Discovered tasty allergy-friendly recipes
• Successfuly traveled on field trips 
• Researched food allergies to further develop my knowledge
• Proved to myself and others that I have no limits due to my food allergies
• Realized my ability to help others like me
• Created this blog to help others achieve an easier lifestyle with food allergies

I am proud of myself and all of the accomplishments I have achieved throughout the 16 years of my life, and I am thankful for everyone who have helped me reach this point of success.

As Jarod Kintz once said, "The year you were born marks only your entry into the world. Other years where you prove your worth, they are the ones worth celebrating." So as I continue my journey through life with food allergies, I will continue to celebrate the accomplishments I have achieved over the past years, and  look forward to the ones yet to come and sharing them with you!

-Alli

Field Trip Fiasco

Last week, I went on a Student Council field trip for a state conference at our state college, which included workshops run by other students explaining different projects and activities that make their schools unique. I was so excited to find new ways to have fun at my school! But then I got the email sent out with the trip information. And this was a part of it:

"If you did not buy the lunch buffet, you will eat in the student lounge or you can buy a ticket for the buffet at the door for $9.00. If you bring your own lunch, you cannot eat in the cafeteria with everyone else."

I stared at the email for a few seconds in shock. As far as I knew, I was the only one planning on bringing my own lunch. I responded asking why this was and my adviser said that it was an open buffet, and they don't allow people in that didn't pay for tickets- the school's rules, not hers. This bothered me, and I immediately wondered, could this be considered descrimination against people with food allergies? But then I realized they probably didn't even think of those with food allergies when they made this rule, and I just let it go and accepted that I wasn't going to be able to sit with my friends.

By the time lunch came around on the trip, I figured I would ask if I could get in. After all, they wouldn't deny someone the right to sit at a table if they have food allergies and are physically unable to eat the food, right?

They did.

I looked around outside the cafeteria. There were no seats anywhere, just an empty hallway. As I was scanning with my eyes to find an acceptable place to sit down on the floor to settle in for lunch, my friend kindly insisted in paying for my ticket. As I handed the ticket to the same woman that denied my original access, she gave me a smile and said "You never know, our cafeteria is very allergy-friendly and probably has plenty of options for you! Just ask the attendants!" I smiled and said thank you.

But, inside I was enraged. She doesn't know anything about food allergies, let alone mine! As I looked around at the different buffet options, the only thing I saw that might have been acceptable if I hadn't brought a lunch would have been the salad bar. But upon closer inspection, everything was a mess and mixed together due to the self serve option, and definitely a hazard with my carrot and dairy allergies.

As I went to sit down, I shook my head in frustration. But while eating my own safe lunch, I happily ate my sandwich, knowing that I was safe, and I had friends looking out for me, even if the people at this school weren't.

-Alli

A Supposedly Clean Frying Pan That Wasn't So Clean

The other day in a rush, I was frying some chicken dogs on a pan for dinner. When they were almost done, I noticed some spots on the pan that looked like some sort of sauce. This immediately caught my attention as I knew it could be an allergen threat. It came straight out of the cabinet, so it should have been clean. Someone must have washed it, and not realized it wasn't completely clean! Even though I was hungry, I gave the hotdogs to my mom because I knew it was better to be safe than sorry. (I ended up having some meatballs instead.)

Everything worked out and I stayed safe. I was just happy that I caught the accidentally dirty dish!

Has anyone else ever been caught in a situation like this? Share in the comments below!

Coffee Cake in a Mug (Microwaved!)

I was bored today after school, and decided to find a recipe that I could cook in a mug, and I found this on Chocolate Covered Katie: The Healthy Dessert Blog, and I absolutely loved it! I followed the recipe below, and as seen in the picture, it only filled half of the mug. (I suggest doubling the recipe to completely fill the mug.)

Milk, Egg, Soy, Nut, and Peanut Free


Batter:
2 tbsp flour
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/16 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp plus 2 tsp water
2 tsp melted milk free, soy free margarine (can be substituted for oil or applesauce)
1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract

Streusel:
1/8 tsp cinnamon
1 and 1/4 tsp brown sugar
1/4 to 1/2 tsp melted milk free, soy free margarine (can be substituted for oil or applesauce again)
Tiny pinch of salt

Combine dry batter ingredients and mix. Add wet batter ingredients in and mix. In a separate bowl, mix streusel ingredients. Put half of batter in the mug, then layer on top half of the streusel. Add the second half of the batter, and on top of that the other half of the streusel. Bake in the microwave for about 1 minute. However, the time may vary depending on your microwave, so add 10 seconds on until you find it desirable.

Please remember to double check all ingredients for your food allergens. Enjoy!

-Alli

Who Am I?

“What do you eat?!?” is a question I’m commonly asked. But to me, living with food allergies isn’t about what I can and can’t eat, but the attitude with which I handle them. I’ve been living with food allergies ever since I was diagnosed at 4 months old. Yet within my life, I have never once gotten out of bed with a groan thinking that it was just going to be another day where I couldn’t eat like everyone else. Granted, I’ve woken up groaning due to bio tests or a long day of chores ahead of me, but I promise, never because of my food allergies. How have I done it, you ask? I just realize that there is more to me than just being "The Girl with Food Allergies". I just take a step back and remember who I am. 

But, who am I?

I am a teenager.
I sometimes can’t believe I’ve grown up so fast.

I am a mathematician .

Okay I just like math,especially algebra. (But NOT geometry!)

I am a writer.

Whether its entries in a journal, releasing my emotions in poetry, or adding to my blog

I am an extrovert.

I walk/skip around my house (okay-in public too) singing because it makes me happy.

I am a discoverer.

I enjoy going for walks to take in the beauty around me.

I am a photographer.

I capture single moments of that beauty with my camera. I’m pretty much obsessed with photography.

I am an actress.

I love acting in my school musicals and Shakespeare club, along with summer shows.

I am a sister.

I enjoy teasing my little brother at every chance I get. I miss my sister in college and enjoy the time and laughter I share with my other sister who's a senior in high school.

I am a daughter.

I love my parents and always hope that I am making them proud.

I am a friend.
I'll go through everything and anyone to help and protect my friends.
I am a scaredy-cat.

I’m easily scared. Really easily. I’ll hear my sisters sneaking up behind me and still jump a mile when they say “boo”.

I am a midget.

I’m 4’11” (and ¾”!) I pretend to be annoyed by short jokes, but really I find them just as funny as everyone else.

I am a memorizer.

I can quote practically all of Nemo and Up (along with many other Disney Pixar movies) and I am not ashamed.

I am a bookworm.

I’m a “hiding-under-the-covers-flashlight-on-promising-myself-to-read-only-one-more-page-until-2am” kind of girl.

I am a cheerleader.

I have a happy and peppy personality to match! (proven by the exclamation point)

I am an appreciator.

I think sunrises and sunsets are the most beautiful things a person can witness.

I am an advocator.

I speak up for what I believe in. And I’m loud...now that I think about it…probably too 

loud.

I am a mariner.

I love boating on the ocean. I love the sound of the waves splashing against the hull of a boat, the smell of the salty air, and the wind whipping around me.

I am an achiever.

I set goals and work hard day in and day out to reach them.

I am a perfectionist.

Everything I create or do has to be done a certain way...I guess I’m a little OCD.

I am a musician.

I sing and play trumpet. I live on music. (Seriously...I don’t remember life before my

iPod.)

I am an architect.

Not yet, but I hope to be!

I am a daydreamer.

I imagine what my life will be like in 30 years, and what it will be like tomorrow.

I am a romantic.

I wonder what its like to fall in love and wonder when I will and who it will be with. I hope for a love like my parents’.

I am an optimist.

I always look at the bright side of any situation.

I am an individual.

I ignore what other people say about me because I am happy with who I am.

All these aspects make up who I am- NOT just my food allergies. Don’t get me wrong, my food allergies are a huge part of me; without them I would not be where I am today. I’ve found real friends and people that I know care about me because they are careful with my food allergies. I’ve learned to stand up for myself; my food allergies have given me confidence I never would have had otherwise. I’ve learned how to help others by helping them understand their food allergies through my blog and by being a member of FARE’s Teen Advisory Group. I raise awareness by incorporating my allergies into school assignments. I’ve done a presentation on the FAAN/ FAI merger into FARE, and I’ve even written a poem for my English class (Never Make Me Cry) about living with food allergies that brought strangers to tears.

When I’m asked the question, “What do you eat?!” I never once think that I’m lacking anything in my life. I never let this question get me frustrated or upset. Because I know that I express myself and live with my food allergies by doing what I do best.

By being me.

Plain, and simple.

False Sense of Security

After 15 years of living with food allergies, you would think that I would know exactly what brands I am and am not allergic to. And you would be right. Generally, anyway. However, this belief that I know every single brand that is and is not safe has given me a false sense of security.

Friday night, I was cheerleading at my football team's game at a field an hour from my home. A parent brought bags of chips for us girls to eat during halftime since we were missing some girls and therefore weren't able to perform our halftime dance. I grabbed a bag of chips that I've had frequently in my school cafeteria. I read the ingredients at the beginning of the school year and they were safe. I ate them quickly in my hunger, but almost immediately upon completing the bag, my tongue got itchy. Believing that the chips were safe, I hoped that it was nothing. But following my instincts, I checked the ingredients again anyway. My heart stopped when I read "Contains: Milk" in dangerously bold letters. I asked my friend sitting next to me if these chips had always contained milk and when she responded yes, I was befuddled!

How could something that I've eaten so many times before, believing them safe and never having had a reaction to, all of a sudden cause me to react?

The situation complicated when I realized I had moved all my medicine from my cheer bag into my work bag, and forgot to put them back after work. I went up to my coach asking if our first aid kit had any Benadryl, and it didn't. We then looked through the football team's med-kit and still, nothing. Fortunately, one of the parents in the stands had overheard the issue and had Benadryl in her car. I ended up taking two pills. At this point I had a stomach ache as well. I called my mom, who was over an hour away picking my sister up, and informed her about the situation, but was confident in telling her I was fine. And fortunately, I was. By the end of my game, about 30 minutes later, I felt fine. On the bus ride home, I was completely knocked out by the dose of Benadryl, but I felt 100% better when I woke up back at the school.

What has this reaction taught me?

Never trust any brand, no matter how many times you've eaten it in the past. You could have misread and got lucky, like I did, or the company could change the ingredients without any notice.

I had a false sense of security when I opened and devoured that bag of chips. By the end of the bag, I realized that nothing is ever 100% safe.

-Alli

Post-Note: I was able to determine with my friends that the brand of chips that I reacted to at the game is different than the brand that I always have safely in school. They both have similar packaging and that's what confused me.

Our Friendly "Ghost"

Last night, my family arrived home from a long day out, and were happily surprised when we discovered that we were "Ghosted". As most of you probably know, this is when you leave candy and treats at someone's doorstep and anonymously ringing the doorbell. Upon being ghosted, you then have to ghost 2 other houses within 48 hours.

This "Ghosting" was different than any other my family has ever received in past Halloweens. The treat we were given was graham crackers and marshmallows- a s'more minus the chocolate, making it allergy friendly. To top it off, within the zip-lock bags containing the crackers and marshmallows, there were the ingredient labels as well! Someone out there, a family friend and neighbor, took into consideration our food allergies while putting together their secret "Ghosting" and my brother and I definitely appreciate it!

If our "Ghost" is reading this right now, thank you! I hope you understand how much it means that someone knows and cares about our food allergies!

If you have been "Ghosted" and are about to pass it on, find out if the children have food allergies and take it into consideration when choosing the treat.

Have a happy and allergy-friendly Halloween!

-Alli

Field Trip Support Team

A question posed to me yesterday asked how I deal with going on field trips by myself.

Now at the age of fifteen, I like to believe that I am independent and can take care of myself. On the other hand, I'm sure every teenage girl says the same thing. However, with food allergies, independence becomes much more necessary with my own safety on the line. So, when it comes to going on field trips, I've learned the best way to stay safe. What is it you ask? I simply bring all my own food and medicine. Last year, as a trumpeter in my school's wind ensemble, I went on a trip to Williamsburg, Virginia for three days. Before the trip, I planned and packed three meals per day that I could easily heat up, along with plenty of snacks. By talking to my trip's coordinator, I made sure that I would have access to a microwave. Coincidentally, the microwave that I had access to ended up being conveniently in my own room! Every morning when getting ready for the day, I heated and placed my meals in containers to bring along with me in my backpack. Also in my backpack, I kept my inhaler, Benadryl, and Epipens easily accessible.

Even though the question that was brought to my attention asked me how I handle going on field trips by myself, in reality I am never alone. My independence and understanding are key to my success on field trips, but my support team- made up of my teachers, friends, and family- is even more important. On this trip, another set of my medicine was kept with one of my teachers who volunteered to be my administer if it became necessary and I was unable to do so myself. I showed my friends where my medicine was being kept and asked them to help me if I needed it and the teacher was inaccessible. My friends easily agreed to this and were even "fighting" over who was the most responsible and therefore most trustworthy with my Epipen. I also had both of my sisters on the trip, as they were in the band as well.

So even though I was figuratively alone on this trip without my parents to guide me, I was never truly alone. With these people as my support team, I was able to feel safe and stay safe during my trip. Whether the field trip is for 3 days or 3 hours, someone is always there to support you and help you with your food allergies. You are never alone in this fight.

7000 and Counting!

Thank you to everyone that follows me! I have reached over 7000 views on my blog and have 164 likes on my corresponding Facebook page! Follow me on both for the most information!

When I first started this blog, I thought no one would ever actually take the time to read it, but over a year later, I know differently. The positive comments and feedback is amazing to me, and it's because of everyone reading this that I have continued to post on this blog! I'm glad you all enjoy it!

Please don't forget, I would love to hear what YOU want me to write about! Do you have questions that you want answered? Does your child/friend/parent? I am here to help!

Thank you again!! <3

-Alli

Endless

The one question I get asked a lot, second only to "What do you even eat?", is "What is a reaction like?" Whether it is coming from my friends, moms of food allergic children, or even my own mom, I've never really known how to answer it. And if you're one of the people that have asked me, then you have probably noticed how I tend to skirt around the question or that I'm just incapable of answering. Honestly? I did that not because I didn't want people to know, but because I really just didn't know how to put it into words and be able to describe it accurately. And I've lived 15 years never knowing how to describe it. Until now. So this is to everyone that has ever asked me: "What is a reaction like?"
Here is your answer:

Endless

Poison
Danger
It lingers in the distance.
It settles in the pit of my stomach.

Hope 
Prayer
The silent wish that I am wrong.
The overpowering evidence that I am right.

Realization 
Doom
The tears lingering behind my eyes.
My refusal to let them fall.

Strength
Acceptance
Admitting to my mistake.
The shame found hiding within my words.

Regret
Apology
The fear behind my mother's eyes.
The love felt within her comforting touch.

Pain
Exasperation
The cry that wants to escape my unparting lips.
The longing for everything to disappear.

Relief
Freedom
The gasp of air as the pain slowly releases its unrelenting grip.
The sigh that falls with the strength of my body.

End.
Temporary.



-Alli

America's Candy - All Natural, Vegan and Allergy Friendly

My cousin discovered this and shared a link with me so I can inform all of you! There is a new candy possibly coming out called No No's. It is an M&M-like candy that has a milk-free chocolate coating and a marshmellow center. What do you think? Will you back up this product? Why or why not?

America's Candy - All Natural, Vegan and Allergy Friendly

Braving Boy Scouts

Today my brother was sent off to a week of boy scout camp for the second time. Except, the difference between last year and this year, is that my brother is alone. Well, that is, without my mom or dad. Dealing with food allergies by yourself for a whole week is hard; at the age of 12, its even harder! He is the first to go on a trip by himself for longer than 3 days, but my mom packed all his food and created a whole schedule of when he's eating what. He was a little nervous, but super excited. I know he'll be fine, and I'm really proud of my little brother and I hope he knows it!

Vacation Bible School

Today was the start of Vacation Bible School and I was so excited to be a crew leader and volunteer for the second year! What made today even more exciting was when the woman in charge of snacks came up to me and told me she specifically requested me to be in charge of a group of preschoolers. Why? Because one of them has a severe dairy allergy. When I met the little boy, he was absolutely adorable! When I told him at snack time the snack was safe for him, he gave me the biggest smile. That made my day! I am so glad adults are becoming more aware of food allergies when planning snacks at events like this. I'll give you more updates on how the rest of this week goes.

Wish me luck!

-Alli

Allergy-Free Trip Follow Up

I just returned from my 4 day Wind Ensemble trip on Sunday, and everything went very smoothly! There were no issues with the food at all! A bonus was that my roommates and I ended up with the largest room out of everyone that came with a mini fridge AND a microwave! I was able to easily store and cook my food as necessary!

A short story that I'd like to share from this trip:
While on the bus ride down, I decided to show my friends I was sitting near where my Epipen was and how to use it if it became necessary. Even though I already had a trained chaperone and my sisters with me, I thought it would be good to have them as backup. As it turned out, most of them already knew how to use it! Not only that, but they were fighting over who would take the responsibility of injecting me. They showed me that they weren't afraid to step up and help if it became an emergency situation (which fortunately it didn't!) I have good friends and it was a fun trip!

If anyone has questions on any specific details of my trip, just comment and I'll tell you!
Thanks for reading!

-Alli

Believe

Sometimes when I'm alone, and just think, I imagine my future. What I've noticed is that those times when I'm imagining my future, I'm not just picturing my home, husband, kids and friends, but I see myself cooking for my family. But this dream is tainted with my food allergies. I don't know if in 25 years I'm going to be cooking my whole family allergy-friendly food, or if I will be able to enjoy the food my children and husband want to. I don't know if there is going to be a cure for food allergies, or if I will have to live with them for life.

What I do know is this: Some day, some how, a cure for food allergies will be created. I believe in the doctors, I believe in the researchers, I believe in FARE. Most importantly, I believe in myself, that even if the cure does not come during my life time, I will be able to live a happy and fulfilling life, despite my allergies. I hope you can too.

Best Wishes,

-Alli

Hoping for an Allergy-Free Trip!

In just 5 days, my High School Wind Ensemble is going on a four day field trip! I'm SUPER excited, but I'm kind of nervous how everything is going to work out with my allergies. I'm not nervous about having a reaction, but more so how I will get my own food that I bring available and ready when I need it. Fortunately, both of my sisters are going on the trip as well, so if anything does go wrong, they know how to administer my Epipen, and I plan on training some of my friends as well. Hopefully, this won't be necessary! I'll make sure to let you know how everything goes after the trip!

Wish me luck!

-Alli

The Love of A Mother

Dedicated to my Mother, who has made me who I am. She has helped me live with my food allergies, and shown me how to be the best person I can. For that, I am so grateful.

The Love of A Mother

Each day I woke up

Scared of what would come

My mom helped me stand

By giving her love

She dries my eyes

She wipes my tears

She's held my hand

Over all the years

With a quick little hug

Or a good long laugh

She's there to brighten my day

Making each one last.

She watches out for me

She makes me feel safe

Whether I am by myself

Or within her embrace.

Her smile lights up a room

Her laugh so contagious

Without her my life would be dull

Because of her, I'm destined for greatness.

You have stuck with me

(You didn't really have a choice)

You've taken care of me

You've given me a voice

I love you Mom

I hope you know

You've brightened my life

You've helped me grow

To the Mother of me

To the sister of some

To the friend of many

And the wife of one

You deserve the best

You keep on giving

Without you, Mother

Life would not be worth living. 

Stop Underestimating Yourself

Just because you have food allergies does not mean you are any less important or inadequate in any way. It just means you have something that is a part of you and affects your life. It is YOUR choice whether you let it affect you positively or negatively.

I made food allergies positive by creating this blog. How have you made your allergy-situation positive?

NBC Nightly News: The Worlds View on Food Allergies

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

We always look at our food allergies from a personal view, as we are people that have them or have been affected. But sometimes it is good to look from the outside and see what other people see. Take a look at this video, and maybe we'll learn something!

Fear is a Choice

An allergy is not something to underestimate. It affects the way you live, act, and enjoy life on a day to day basis. It causes you to start double-checking everything you are going to do to see if it is going to involve food, and your allergens. However, by over checking, you are setting yourself up to live a life of fear. If you are thinking about your allergies every hour and minute, then you have to understand that it doesn't have to be that way. There is a difference between living with an allergy and fearing what you have to live with. It is important to stay on the right side of this fine line. Fun and excitement can still be a part of your every day life while living with a food allergy! Don't become over-protective of yourself or your child every time you want to go out.

Who would always want to be thinking about when their next reaction is going to be? Not me! I want to know how to help myself if one occurs, but I don't want to be scared 24/7 about what's coming next! If I stay safe right now, I am protecting myself for the future. But right now, I am also having fun and enjoying myself, even with food allergies. I hope you can too!
Stay safe, and have fun!

Best of Luck!

-Alli

A Great Blog: "Jazzy Allergy Recipes"

I have just discovered this GREAT blog! It is called Jazzy Allergy Recipes and it is filled with a few years worth of posts and posts of dairy, egg, and nut free recipes! I haven't tried any of them out yet, but definitely plan to tomorrow! Try some out and send in pics of the turn-out! Let me know which ones you recommend!

Click on the link below:

Jazzy Allergy Recipes

Easter Peeps

Easter has already passed, but I have to say personally, it was one of the best! Not only did I have plenty of candy, but I got to have dinner with my best friend's family! Granted, they are Jewish, but they happily took part in our Easter festivities! This year, we held our first Annual PEEPle's Choice Awards! It was a blast! I'm sharing this with you because not only is it Easter-related, but it is allergy-friendly! My friend and I entered "St. Peeps Hospital" (which is the picture on the left). My sister Claire and my friend's mom and sister created "The PEEPle of Israel". Finally, my sister Katie and brother Peter created "The PEEPle's Court". All of them were so funny and were a blast to create! So if you have left over Peeps or next year around Easter time you need an activity, I highly suggest holding a PEEPle's Choice Awards of your own! Send me pictures!

Have Fun!

-Alli

Subway Support

Just last week, my two sisters and I went to Subway for dinner. As I got in line, my sisters allowed me to go first. I immediately told the worker that I had food allergies, and before I could request the use of clean knives and gloves, this is what she said:

   "Let me wash my hands, then I'll get a brand new knife from the back."

Despite the simplicity of this gesture, I was so thankful that a company like Subway hires people legitimately capable of doing their job. This woman knew how to help me while keeping me safe, and it was awesome!

However, just two days ago, I had a bad Subway experience. This time, when I asked for a clean knife from the back, the worker was shocked and looked at me like I was crazy. He told me they did not have any clean knives in the back, but that he could use the bread knife. I okayed this, but the attitude of this man upset me. He was unwilling to cooperate to keep me safe and shocked when I asked for a slight adjustment. I ended up getting an itchy tongue after the second half of my sandwich, but with the help of Benadryll, I  wa able to avoid any further reaction.

If all employees were like the woman that served me at Subway, and not like the man, it would be so much easier for those with food allergies to go out and eat without being worried about reactions. I hope one day this can happen, but until then, please stay safe while dining out!

Best of Luck!

-Alli

I Choose Happiness

Do you ever wake up in the morning wondering why YOU have to suffer through food allergies? When I was younger, this thought ran through my head almost everyday. When I finally asked my mom why, she simply said "God has special plans for you in the future". He knew that I am strong enough to live, survive and flourish with food allergies. Over the years, I have discovered that He was right all those years ago when he blessed me with food allergies. However, I know many people do not hold the same faith as I do, and for you I have this quote:

        "I am in charge of how I feel, and today I choose happiness"

Every day I could wake up and think "Ugh, just another day I won't be able to eat pizza or ice cream, or even just buy lunch." Instead, I wake up thankful that I have food to eat, despite the ingredients of the food. There are so many in the world without food that would gladly take the shares that people complain over.

I've learned that food allergies are not a hindrance to me, but have given me a reason to be stronger, a reason to be thankful, and a reason to be who I am. I don't know if I would be the same person I am today if I didn't have food allergies. So despite the problems that food allergies bring me, they have shaped me to be the strong, independent, and happy person I am today.

So, thank you God. For everything.

-Alli

Thankful for Food Allergies

Having food allergies is a time-consuming job. We live with them 24/7, and because of that we think we are the only ones that have a burden to bear. But there are so many other  people that have harder struggles than us. I have a 9 year old cousin that has been living with diabetes since he was 6, I have a neighbor that had cancer. There are people that have divorced parents, and have family members that have passed away. When i take everything into perspective, food allergies are not that bad! I still live a happy, healthy life. I just have to be careful with what I'm eating and touching, but compared to the lives of others, my struggles are easy.


So next time you start to pity yourself for food allergies, think about it, and maybe take a moment to be thankful for your food allergies.

Best of Luck!

-Alli

Teen Advisory Group (TAG)

A few months ago, I applied to be a part of FARE's Teen Advisory Group, commonly known as TAG, and today was the day I found out. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(drumroll please!)

I'VE BEEN ACCEPTED!

I'm so excited to be working with FARE and I actually ran around my house doing a happy dance (no joke!)   I have found another way that I can help those with food allergies be more confident and feel safe and cannot wait to get started! Check out more information at:
 http://www.foodallergy.org/resources/teens/teen-advisory-group

Wish me luck in the year to come, and try to follow my stories on the FARE website! I will try to frequently give updates!

-Alli

Trust Yourself!

Growing up as a kid with food allergies, I've had to learn how to take care of myself. My mom, dad, and sibblings know how to handle my food allergies, and live with it in their daily lives because of my brother and me. But despite the great knowledge and allergy-awareness they've gained from living with me, they are still human, and can still forget how I have to live.

Sometimes my dad buys pretzels that I can't eat without realizing it.

Sometimes my mom uses the same spatula for beef hamburgers to flip my turkey burgers.

Sometimes my sisters will bake something with the intent of making it allergy friendly, but forgets to use soy milk, or the egg substitute instead.

Do these instances mean that my family doesn't care or understand? Of course not! They love me very much and never intentionally do these things! However, because it is not them living with the food allergies, and their mistakes are not going to directly affect their health, they slip up sometimes.
Because I know they don't mean to do these things, I don't blame them in any way, and try not to get frustrated with them. Instead what I've learned to do is to look out for myself, and my brother. If someone is cooking dinner that involves my allergens, I ask the "chef" if they are being safe with my food. I sometimes even like to watch them cook, even if they don't notice, just to be sure they aren't going to get me sick accidentally.

In essence, I've learned to trust myself above all others. Even if someone close to me tells me its safe, I want to double check in any way possible. Of course, when I was younger this was not possible, but as I've grown up, I've learned to trust myself and my actions to keep me safe. I hope many of you can learn to do the same. For sometimes it is in trusting yourself that you discover your own judgement is better than that of others, even those close to  you.

Please believe me when I say I am not writing this to tell you that you can't trust those around you, those trying to help you, but to make sure that those you trust know what they are doing!

Best of Luck!

-Alli

Acts of Love

Over the years, I have discovered the people that really care for me and love me are the ones that take the time to be careful with my food allergies. The little things people do to keep me safe, those are the things I remember the most about a person. If they are friends, they know the brands I can and can't eat, and stock their houses with allergy-friendly food for sleepovers. Not to mention they'll avoid bringing in food I'm allergic to for lunch (Check out Random Acts of Allergy-Friendly Kindess). My family members don't mind having allergy-friendly cake, even when its their birthday! They also know how to read labels, double checking everything I read to see if its allergy-friendly. They take the time to make something allergy-friendly, even when its easier not to.

Its these little things, these acts of love, that help me stay strong, knowing that my family and friends support me in what I have to live with. They make having food allergies easier! These simple acts of love help me find my true friends, and help me grow even closer to my family! What are your simple acts of love that make living with food allergies easier? Send me your stories! :)

-Alli

The Newbie

Very recently, one of my good friends discovered that she is allergic to almonds while eating a new trail mix her mom brought home. She started getting hives all over her face and quickly took medication. As she is adapting to this allergen, she realized just how many things contain almonds, whether its directly, or just because the food was processed on a facility that produces almonds.
When I asked her what she thought about her new food allergy, this is what she said:

"Its just a different way of living. Even though its a small allergy, I've had to change and be aware of what I am eating, such as granola bars, trail mix. I just have to double check everything I was used to having...I miss having my favorite granola bars...but I don't miss the rashes!"

I guess what I really learned from my friend, this "newbie" to food allergies, is that no one can really understand food allergies and the struggles we go through unless they have allergies themselves.
I'm not saying that people don't try to understand, the people that try are your true friends. However, I am saying that although they try, they will never truly know what you will have to go through. You have to be able to stand up for yourself and know that despite this, you are NOT alone! The people who care for you will always be there, and so will everyone in the allergy community, including myself. Best of Luck!


-Alli

Thank You!

Today is my Birthday! Most of the time it just means getting older, but turning 15 means something to me this year.  I feel like over the past few months I have made a difference in the world; I have made a difference in people's lives. And I've done that through this. Through my writing, my stories, my recipes, my advice. I've had people tell me that I'm an inspiration, that what I write makes them cry, that their children are connecting to what I say. I would like to thank everyone that's ever read anything I've written. Thank you for helping me accomplish something this past year. But most of all, Thank You for reading! <3

Making A Difference

Last night, my parents and I watched the movie Mr. Holland's Opus. This movie is all about a man who's one dream is to create one piece of music that will make him famous. He ends up unwillingly taking a job as a music teacher. As the years pass by, his wife becomes pregnant and he finds less and less time to write his music. However, he has become a great teacher, influencing many children and teaching them how to love music anyway he can. When he finds out his infant son is deaf, he's devastated that he won't be able to share his one passion, music, with him. As Mr. Holland slowly gets older, he feels he was unsuccessful in life because he never was able to publish his one piece of music. When the music program gets canceled in his school and he is let go, it makes him feel even worse. However, as he is leaving the school, he hears a commotion in the auditorium, only to discover that there were hundreds of students, alumni and current, that were in there to thank him and tell him goodbye. One of his students, that because he encouraged her to chase her dream became governor, shared that:

"Mr. Holland had a profound influence on my life and on a lot of lives I know. But I have a feeling that he considers a great part of his own life misspent. Rumor had it he was always working on this symphony of his. And this was going to make him famous, rich, probably both. But Mr. Holland isn't rich and he isn't famous, at least not outside of our little town. So it might be easy for him to think himself a failure. But he would be wrong, because I think that he's achieved a success far beyond riches and fame. Look around you. There is not a life in this room that you have not touched, and each of us is a better person because of you. We are your symphony Mr. Holland. We are the melodies and the notes of your opus. We are the music of your life."

She then invites him to conduct his past players in the first performance of his symphony.

After watching this movie, I realized that I want to be like Mr. Holland. My dream is to influence as many people as possible in a beneficial way. To touch others, and make a difference in each and every one of their lives. This is when I realized, I'm already doing that. I'm doing it through this blog. Every one of you reading this is the music of my life. I'd like to thank you for caring so much about what I say and taking the time to give me feedback on everything I write. This blog means a lot to me, but it would mean nothing without my followers. So thank you, really. You've helped me find a purpose in my life! I highly recommend this movie and hope you find as much inspiration in it as I do!

-Alli

Random Acts of Allergy-Friendly Kindness

I walked into lunch the other day, as I would any day, and took my seat by my friends. One of my friends, who I don't know too well, was about to take a seat next to me. However, at the last second she stood up and walked around to the other side. Slightly hurt, I said: "(Name of friend), you can sit here" but she replied immediately "No" But when she explained it made total sense and left me happily surprised. She simply said:

"I have peanut butter today, and I don't want to get you sick."

Today, another occurrence happened. In the middle of lunch, my friend across from me pulled out a granola bar, and she too left me happily surprised. She said:

"You know Allison, I was going to pack a peanut butter bar for lunch, but when I realized that I have lunch with you today, I traded it for a regular granola bar. I didn't want to risk getting you sick."

So this I am dedicating to these two friends, who stopped what they were doing just to adapt their lives around me; to keep me safe. I really appreciate it. The little things like this are what keep those with allergies safe. It helps me stay healthy AND it makes me appreciate what great friends I have! Thanks friends!!!

-Alli

Cinnamuffins

Milk, Egg, Peanut, Nut, and Soy Free!

1/4 Cup oil
1/2 Cup dark molasses
1 Cup applesauce
1 1/2 cups flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. salt

Optional: 1/2 cup raisins

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line muffin tins with paper liners. Mix oil, molasses, and applesauce. Sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir together wet and dry ingredients, add raisins if desirable.

Drop into muffin cups and bake 18-20 minutes. Makes about 12 muffins- top with a sprinkling of powdered sugar.


Please remember to double check all ingredients for your food allergens.
Enjoy!

-Alli

Reaction Record

After my allergic reaction last Friday, I was thinking about how it had been so long since my last reaction-probably over 2 years ago! Even though its great that it was so long ago, I don't remember any of the details of that day. I don't know how I reacted to the allergen or even what the allergen was! So today I wrote down last Friday's date, and described my allergic reaction. I explained what I ate before hand, what I think I reacted to, and all of the symptoms- which is probably the most important part. I'm going to make this my Reaction Record, and every time I have a reaction (hopefully they are few and far between) I'm going to describe what happens. Maybe this will be of some use to my doctors, or even just to me! I'll be able to learn more from my past mistakes when I actually remember what they were! I suggest you do the same!
Best of Luck!

-Alli

Bullying and Food Allergies

Right now, I am sitting in my family room and while half-paying attention to the news, I suddenly heard "Food Allergies" mentioned. My head snapped up and I heard them say that many kids with food allergies are bullied! I immediately looked it up and found this article that shares some information about it! Read the article and tell me what you think!

Bullying and Food Allergies

Facebook Cover Photo Contest WINNER!

Jordan, Age 8, is the winner of the Facebook Cover Photo Contest! She shares that even though people have allergies, you can still find something to smile at! Congratulations Jordan! You did a great job! You deserve plenty of praise, and great big SMILES :D

Merry Christmas!


-Alli

You Are Not Alone!

Having food allergies is a struggle, my situation yesterday really showed me that. However, I was able to pull through because of my family, and all those that care about me. My mom showed up at my school within 20 minutes, my dad right behind her. My sister immediately came to check in on me. My friend brought me down to the nurse with a lot of concern in her face, and then later with the help of another brought down my backpack when it was obvious I wasn't going back to class. When I was getting sick, my dad was wiping my face clean, holding an ice pack to my neck. As soon as I got home, my brother expressed his concern for me. He offered to make me toast, and my mom came to check in and see if I was okay multiple times. So many people yesterday showed me how much they cared about me and it was an amazing feeling. I would like to thank all of them! It meant so much to me and truly showed me how I am never alone in the struggle against food allergies, and neither are you!