Let me know what you think!
-Alli
Showing posts with label Stories. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Stories. Show all posts
Saturday, September 13, 2014
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)
Saturday, September 6, 2014
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 14th. 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
It was the evening of August 14th. 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
Sunday, June 22, 2014
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
I can't wait for it to begin tomorrow, and I hope the kids are as excited as I am!
-Alli
Saturday, June 7, 2014
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
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
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
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
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
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
16 Years of Success
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
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
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
"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
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
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!
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!
Sunday, November 3, 2013
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.
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.
Sunday, October 27, 2013
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
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
Saturday, September 28, 2013
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
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
Friday, September 20, 2013
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
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
Sunday, July 14, 2013
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!
Monday, June 24, 2013
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
Wish me luck!
-Alli
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
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
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
Friday, May 17, 2013
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
Sunday, May 12, 2013
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.
Monday, April 1, 2013
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
"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
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
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
(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
Saturday, March 16, 2013
Acts of Love
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
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