Re: Family not taking allergy seriously? (yes, LOL, another...

[Guest guest]

HI Carol.

Thats too bad about your MIL.

When we first found out about her allergies, everyone was pretty supportive in our family. My husband didn't want to believe it at first and he didn't really believe she was 'allergic'. He has since come around. When I tell people she is allergic, they just think it's diarrhea or that she's just intolerant. When I tell them that she breaks out in hives and itches and that her face swells up (with peanuts), they are better about it.

At her first baptism (1 month after the diagnosis) when she was 11 months, my husband gave her some ice cream off his plate (thinking it was her 'safe' ice cream). Well, she broke out in hives all over her face and everyone was a believer and kept saying how we should bring her to the hospital. They were all more panicked that I was...which was good. I knew the Benadryl would clear it up in a few minutes and that the ER wasn't necessary. It was good for the others to see that though because they were believers.

As for people sneaking food, until your family has 'accepted' the fact that she is allergic, I would keep a real close eye on Sara. Just bring some food with you. I feel like a traveling kitchen when we go places because I always want to make sure Josie has food to eat. For the most part, there is usually something she can eat, but I just tell her she gets 'special food just for Josie'!

It's not an easy thing to get used to but believe it or not, you'll adjust.

Missy, MN

When you ladies found out about your childrens' allergies, did you have any people in your family who didnt really take the threat seriously?

My DH (who seems to be getting the idea now) didnt seem to believe that she was allergic to eggs (or much of anything for that matter) and was mad because he thought it wasnt fair that she couldnt even eat regular birthday cake.. Now, after only 2 days, he is checking labels and asking me whats safe and whats not.. so I am not worried so much about him... its more my MIL.. where she just doesnt seem to take the situation very seriously at all... She says "its just going to be more work for you is all"... as if I have the choice, and I am deciding to do this! She has said a couple times that maybe its just the weather making her skin so bad etc etc... (which I am sure contributes).. but I am just so afraid that (for instance tomorrow) I will come in to see them sneaking her a piece of cake because they feel bad for her.

I know I am being a little paranoid.. and presumptious about how the first family gathering since the diagnosis will go... I am just curious though... has anyone run into this? Where others just roll their eyes and think you are nitpicky?

TIA! : ) Carol & Sara - Severe excema allergy to eggs, minor shellfish