Our Story

by Christy Renner - Overland Park, KS

 

Hello, my name is Christy Renner, Denise's partner in Food Allergy Connection. Most of my work is done behind the scenes, and I would first of all like to applaud Denise for putting together such a phenomenal website. For close to ten years, Denise and I have been advocates together for food allergy awareness. When I count my blessings, Denise is among them!! She is a trusted friend and great "running buddy" ! She and I like to run in local 5k races together.

I am a mother of three, and my eleven year old daugher has a life-threatening allergy to milk. We became aware of her allergy when she was nine months old. I would like to touch upon the emotional aspects of raising a child with food allergies, and hopefully share with newer moms, that while avoidance and diligance are the key--children with food allergies can lead safe, happy and healthy lives.

I am a positive person, and I decided early on that we would take the food allergy in stride, while being ever cautious, and alert. I never wanted my daughter to feel self-conscious or different just because she was allergic to milk. So we started at a very young age teaching her how to handle her food allergies. To this day, she very maturely deals with her food allergy, and believe me it does not slow her down. She attended pre-school at three, and breezed through elementary school with only one allergic reaction during school hours (which was actually caused by the latex gloves used at an orthodontist apointment). The procedures we had set up were followed and she was fine--thanks to the wonderful nurse at her school!

My daughter plays on a competitive soccer team, sings in a choir, plays the piano and flute, and just basically enjoys life like a middle schooler should! She is going to a slumber party for her soccer team this coming weekend--so, we'll figure out what's being served, send her food with her, and some milk-free treats for her to share. Most important the parents in charge will know of her allergy and how to treat an allergic reaction!! Of course, her emergency kit (containing 2 epi-pens, benadryl and inhaler) will go along too--with her CD's and lipgloss of course!

I hope this will help parents of small children to know that food allergies are very managable--as long as you plan, prepare and educate.

Thanks again to my good friend Denise for all of her hard work on behalf of those of us who have children with food allergies!! May God bless and protect you and your families.

Christy Renner