Page 82 - The Ultimate Guidebook for Teens with Food Allergies

When things go wrong
Bump, Set, Wait! By Bailey
I have serious allergies to peanuts, nuts, and chickpeas. I also happen to play competitive volleyball. One time I was playing at a local tournament when my mother had noticed homemade peanut butter cookies being sold at the canteen. My mother politely explained to the woman working that I had serious allergies to peanut butter and politely asked her if they could please stop selling the cookies as I was worried about peanut butter getting spread around everywhere. The woman, however, said they could not stop selling the cookies because they were bringing in money for the hosting volleyball club. My mother, who was slightly taken back by the woman’s response, explained that my allergies were potentially life-threatening and asked her again if they could please stop selling the cookies. The woman once again refused and the cookies continued to be sold at the tournament. This woman clearly did not understand the extent of my allergies. Nor was she willing to make any compromise. This story highlights the importance of educating those around us about anaphylaxis.
Speed Bumps, by Arianne
Some people just don’t understand the seriousness of food allergies. These people unfortunately come in all ages. When I was in grade school, I encountered countless parents and students who refused to show compassion or understanding towards my food allergies. Birthday parties always proved a stressful time for my parents and me. The fear of what will be brought to the classroom was always a point of worry. One specific parent refused to acknowledge my allergies. She believed that I was faking and was just a nuisance. On the day of her daughter’s birthday, she brought in her favourite peanut butter cupcakes. Without realizing it, our teacher handed them out to all of the students. This incident forced me to be sent home for the day because they feared I would have a reaction. The parent refused to admit that bringing in a dangerous snack was a problem. Her lack of respect taught me the lesson that some people may never understand the seriousness of food allergies. This doesn’t mean that you should ever stop educating and informing others about the severity of food allergies. There might just be a couple of speed bumps along the way.
Quick Tip - Ask one of your friends who really ”gets” your food allergies what makes them take your allergies seriously. This outsider perspective can help you when trying to explain your allergies to others.
What would you say? (Q&A)
Katelyn, Mathew, and Sydney H.