Accidents Don’t Take Vacations

I used to like picnics - really - but having a young child with a special diet make this harmless all-American pastime a little less relaxing than it should be. A group leader at a wonderful support group I attended through the American Asthma and Allergy Foundation shared a personal story with us that I will re-tell as a reminder that vigilance is always necessary.

This woman's son had multiple food allergies, and in order to make sure there was something on the long, food laden table that he could pick from, she made his favorite safe cookies. She baked, and packed this special treat in a bright red basket so that her son's safe dessert would be an easily recognizable choice for him. "Remember - the red basket, and only the red basket". A well-meaning guest was tidying up, and did some consolidation. Other items were tossed in to join the allergen free cookies, and both the parent and child were unaware. A bad reaction followed...but happily recovered from.

I'm not sharing her story to add to our anxiety level, but to remind that accidents have no holidays. It is easy to let our guards down, especially during the care free Summer months - but constant awareness is necessary. But with time and practice it does get easier, And more importantly, we are setting good examples and life lessons for our children!

Diane Pramas
Mother of Food Allergic Child
Consumer Relations, Ian's Natural Foods

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