Our son was diagnosed almost 12 years ago and our third child was diagnosed almost 8 years ago.  The food allergy diagnosis added a whole new layer to parenting.  Every parent worries about their child but when you have a child with food allergies even the most mundane activity is analyzed and prepared for in order to prevent accidental ingestion or contact with their allergen.  So the number one way our life changed was no more spontaneity.  To avoid a reaction involves constant vigilance so everything is meticulously planned.

2. (If you are dealing with multiple food allergies), which one is the most challenging to live with and why?

We deal with allergies to peanut, tree nut, dairy, egg and soy.  Dairy is the most challenging.  It seems like milk is in everything and everywhere.  Pizza parties are ubiquitous.  The dairy allergy results in regular exclusion of our daughter from a range of activities. It is never easy to witness the exclusion of a child from any event but when people choose food over inclusion it is particularly heartbreaking.

3. What types of accommodation does a restaurant need to offer your family in order for you to feel safe eating there?

The restaurant staff would have to be trained to prepare a meal without our allergens and understand how to eliminate cross contamination.  To avoid unnecessary risk and anxiety there is only one safe place for us right now – Sorelle and Co – a place which has none of our allergens on site !

4. If there was one thing you could ask friends and families to understand about life with food allergies, what would it be? 

That it is really hard.  That we don’t want to miss out on things so please find a way to work with us so we can be included and be able to give our kids experiences that others take for granted.

5. What inspiring person / book / organization has made life with food allergies a little bit easier for you? 

Our allergists! Dr Mack and Dr Hanna of the Halton Pediatric Allergy are working with us by providing oral immumotherapy and food challenges to our children in order to increase their safety.

Now it’s my turn to nominate other bloggers!

Drumroll please………

I nominate: