To say we enjoyed an “extended” period of breastfeeding would be an understatement — at least by American standards anyway. I never thought I’d nurse so long. Breastfeeding was important to me, but I thought, “OK, six months, and we’re done.” ... It was a special thing we had. I tried to let him lead the weaning, but he clearly wasn’t going to. So after two years and nine months, I decided it was time.
Our Allergy Journey, Year 3: Progress (Sort of)
It’s Not Someone Else’s Job to Feed My Kid — But It Sure Is Nice
Weddings, birthday parties, family gatherings and neighborhood picnics. These are events that should be fun, right? But for parents of children with food energies, they can be stressful — from both a safety perspective and a social graces standpoint.
Here’s what goes through my mind pre-event: Should I call and ask what they’ll be serving? Should I bring food for my son? Will they think we’re rude if we bring our own food? Would it be rude to call and ask? Will they feel like I’m pressuring them to change their menu? It doesn't matter; I just want to plan. Will they understand?
Then, at the event: Is that cheese on the floor? Is my son reaching for a doughnut? Does that bread have egg? I wonder if the host made these meatballs? Should I ask her what’s in them? Did I remember the EpiPen?
Our Food Allergy Journey, Year 3
In just over a month, my husband and I will take our son to the allergist. It will be his third time having a skin test. I’ve been dreading the appointment since I scheduled it. I know it’s uncomfortable for him to have his skin pricked and scratched with a needle (for starters) — never mind the itching on his back that results from the allergic reactions he experiences. (Though he's always been so brave during these appointments.)
But I’m also dreading the appointment because I’m not very optimistic.
Today Is Mac & Cheese Day
One of the hardest things about being the parent of a child with food allergies is worrying about how he feels when he sees other people eating things he can’t have. When his friends at school have cheese-and-cracker snacks, for example, is he jealous? Is he confused? Does he think his mom is cruel for sending apple slices and organic graham crackers … AGAIN?
Navigating Junk Food Holidays When You Have Food Allergies
Traveling as an Allergy Parent
While there would be food at our destination, I was nervous about it. Typically, before we go out to eat, I try to vet a restaurant and review the menu to ensure there is indeed something on the menu my son can (and will probably) eat. I wasn't able to properly do that in advance of the weekend. Plus, the resort was off the beaten path, so it's not like we could easily wander off-property and dine at Chipotle if the resort's food wasn't cuttin' it.
So, I threw some leftover rice and chicken into a cooler just to be safe.
As I stared at that cooler and the jumbo bag of snacks, I remember thinking: Are other parents doing this? Is this a toddler thing or an allergy thing? I'm pretty sure it's an allergy thing.
A Basic Menu for an Allergy-Friendly July 4 Get-Together
The Next Step in Our Allergy Journey
Several weeks ago, it was time for my son’s one-year allergy follow-up. As the appointment date approached, I had a variety of emotions. First, I was completely dreading the experience on his behalf, knowing he’d have to have his skin pricked a dozen times again this year.
But I was also so, so hopeful.
Ack, Was It Because of Food?!?!
Yesterday afternoon, my son developed a rash on his face. If not for our food allergy experience, I’d probably shrug it off as sensitive skin. I’d monitor it; it would go away. And if it didn’t, I’d call the doctor. No big deal.
But when your child has broken out in hives after a single swallow of yogurt and has tested positive for a number of food allergies, you’re obligated to pause and wonder with every outbreak of anything: What did he eat?