22 January 2011
Dear Family & Friends,
We wanted to make sure you are aware that Nichelle was recently diagnosed with a serious food allergy to peanuts, eggs, soybean and corn. In fact, Nichelle is so allergic to peanuts and eggs that she can have a severe reaction by simply ingesting trace amounts or just by touching anything or anyone who has residue on them. One of the classic characteristics of a food allergy is that with each exposure to the food allergen, the person’s body reacts more severely. The same trace amount that produced hives 4 months ago may now induce anaphylactic shock.
Because these allergic reactions happen quickly and can rapidly escalate into life threatening situations, Nichelle now carries prescription epinephrine injector everywhere she goes. There are no cures for food allergies, so strictly avoiding the allergy-causing food is the safest plan.
We Need Your Support
Please be understanding as we live by these food allergy safety guidelines:
- We will rarely be able to eat out in restaurants or have catered/deli foods. Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as just ordering something that does not contain the foods we are allergic to. Cross contamination often occurs from ingredients that were processed in facilities that also handle foods that we are allergic to and from kitchen staff using the same bowls, spoons, or hand towels as they prepare different foods.
- Parties and gatherings are a special time for children, but can be difficult for the food-allergic child. When we attend these events do not be offended if we bring our own safe food. Also please understand some situations require us to decide not to participate because the risk to us, or inconvenience to you, is too high.
- We will not go anywhere without our prescription epinephrine injectors or without someone capable of giving the injection if necessary. Epinephrine is the primary way to slow a severe allergic reaction providing precious extra minutes to get the required emergency medical treatment.
- When it comes to food or snacks we will constantly ask “What’s that made of?” and “Did you read the ingredients labels?”. We will ask every time and we have to know for sure, a life depends on being diligent.
Recognize a Food Allergy Reaction
We are all familiar with typical allergic reaction of sneezing and itchy-watering eyes to allergens such as pollen and animal dander. However, the symptoms of an allergic reaction to food are more serious, occur suddenly and include:
- hives (multiple red, itchy spots all over the body)
- tingling and swelling of lips, tongue or throat
- nausea
- wheezing indicates airways are closing (possible loss of consciousness)
- sudden drop in blood pressure
- in some cases death
This is a learning process for all of us, and we trust you understand the necessity of us writing this letter to inform you of Nichelle’s allergies. Thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
The Richard Family
Stephanie, Jim, James, Aimee & especially Nichelle
