The anniversary we will never forget

Four years ago we went to our allergist for a very simple food challenge and my Cecelia being my Cecelia things were not easy or straight forward. To put it mildly she failed that food challenge and trying another one with her allergies were not recommended.

We have learned so much since that episode and because of that we are so proud to say she has not had a single episode of hives or reactions since that day.

Our home is her safe place where nothing that has her allergies ever comes into our house. We read labels, research companies and their websites, and if necessary email them. We cook foods that we all enjoy but without her allergies. It took us awhile to navigate but now it is second nature.

Baked goods used to be something that we looked at but never could have but now I bake not only for her but for others like her with allergies or restrictions.

We have actually enjoyed more meals with more variety than ever before maybe because her allergies pushed us out of our comfort zone but whatever the case we have a wide variety of meals, snacks and desserts to satisfy our taste buds and keep her food allergens away. With that in mind we also teach her to self advocate, self carry her epi pens and medicine, how to feel comfortable asking questions or letting someone know about her allergies. She has turned into a bright, happy girl, who knows how to speak up so she can be safe.

We still stay vigilant so we can try our hardest not to have another reaction like we did four years ago! So let’s celebrate together with a donut or two!