Here we are in 2020 and COVID-19 is in full force. None of us expected to be a part of a global pandemic and most certainly none of us want to be. However, I can’t help but notice all the different ways we manage this new normal and the similarities it has to food allergies.
I am friends with so many different people of different races and political backgrounds, but regardless of their beliefs, I am finding that my food allergic friends have handled this pandemic a little bit easier. COVID-19 reminds me of how we all manage food allergies so differently. Lately, I am finding myself in many situations of having to explain why my family does what we do and why we feel more comfortable doing it that way. It is a tough situation especially when kids and high-risk individuals are involved. We are all trying to navigate this new normal and do it the best way that we can based on each of our family situations. I remember writing a blog and pointing out the differences in the way that we all manage food allergies. There’s no one size fits all and we need to try to respect each other.
The mask debates have totally reminded me of people being in an uproar regarding having to give up certain foods for one child in a classroom. When I hear people talk about their “rights”, it totally brings me back to those parents saying that they have a right to send their children to school with X, Y or Z to eat even if it can potentially kill another child.
I don’t want my child to have food allergies, but without a doubt they have made me a much more empathetic person. I am so proud to be teaching my kids how to adapt, be prepared and most importantly how to treat those people that are at higher risk with compassion and understanding.
So once again I want to say, THANK YOU to the food allergy community. You have and will continue to be a great example and support system for myself and my family. We will all get through this together and there will be a brighter light at the end of the tunnel.
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