I’m no stranger to allergies. My dad had asthma as a child that he outgrew, while my mom developed asthma when she was in her 30s. I needed an air purifier in my room to sleep at night when I was a child due to hay fever, and I’ve had two hives outbreaks in the last five years.
So, I’m quite familiar with allergies.
A month or so ago, my daughter had an allergic reaction to a muffin with walnuts in it. Yesterday, we had her appointment with the allergy specialist at Mass General Hospital, and yes, she is allergic to walnuts. She showed a small reaction to pecans and no reaction at all to any of the other nuts tested (including peanuts, which are legumes, rather than tree nuts).
As parents, we are now challenged with keeping her safe, while preventing panic. Our doctor, who’s extremely well respected, suggested we keep her away from all nuts, but not to be overprotective. He mentioned that some kids with allergies end up with low self-esteem, something I really don’t want to happen. So, she now has her Benadryl and EpiPen at Pre-K, and I’ll always carry another set with me. But, I’ll try my hardest to keep her allergy from making her feel self-conscious. Wish me luck.
Photo credit: Jen DeCesari
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
oh jodi – that is SUCH a drag. Check out our allergy alerts at http://www.mabel.ca and I’ll happily send you some. Let me know what you want them to say…..they might bring you a bit of piece of mind.
Don’t you worry one bit about her self esteem, you’re a great mom and she’s going to do just great! For my boys, they feel so secure knowing that they’re SAFE. We talk a lot about how to let them be included in regular activities in a safe way. I’m totally happy to schedule a time to chat, maybe meet over coffee.
We bring our own food EVERYWHERE and I always have a stockpile of frozen cupcakes for parties.
Be sure to check out Vermont Nut Free chocolate if you need to order easter candy, or Divvies Bakery. Both great ways to celebrate all the regular things in a safe way.
I’ve been there for the last three years, and its a tough road to walk, but I’m here to help. Al the best.
Jodi, sorry to hear about the walnut allergy.
And I wouldn’t worry too much about the self esteem. i know many children/adults with peanut allergies and to be honest, I’m not noticing any self esteem issues.
You are a *great* mom…keep the faith.
P.S. Love your new profile pic!
Sorry to hear that Jodi! Thankfully she has a wonderful, pro-active mom that will take great care of her body & mind. Plus, you know a great vacation spot where the chefs are top notch when it comes to dealing with allergies!
I’m truly sorry about the allergies! I know it can be scary, and the temptation to be overprotective great. You’re doing an awesome job in the role of Fabulous Mom, and I know that you will find a balance that works for your and your little princess where you can be protective and let her continue to spread her wings and soar to the heights you know she will achieve.