Food Allergy Connections Start in the Heart

Do you remember that moment when you or a loved one was diagnosed with food allergies? What did it feel like? Did your heart drop into your stomach, or did your head spin from feeling overwhelmed? Those feelings of confusion and isolation felt like they would never end. Then, that glorious day arrived! The one when you found your first food allergy connection. It might have been with a peer, fellow parent, support group, or your FAACT family. But you knew these people saw you, recognized your aching heart, and were there to improve your food allergy life.

Can you still describe that moment you felt your heartstrings pulled and how good that moment was to be with people who didn't think you were crazy for label-reading every single food item? Or didn't you think you were over the top for baking dessert for a party or classroom event?

Food allergy connections might be the invisible hand that reaches down and pulls us into the world of possibilities. We often make these connections during our most vulnerable moments; they are almost impossible to break once they are made.

These connections do more than offer support. They inspire movements for policy and change. They drive manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies to create solutions and commit to ongoing innovation. They motivate researchers to continue exploring food allergies' impact and find new treatments and cures. These connections unite people to develop laws to support people with food allergies. Recently, the Elijah Alavi Foundation led the charge in developing successful legislation in California to protect children in preschool and daycare centers. Legislators, national food allergy organizations, foundations, community groups, families, influencers, and individuals banded together to get legislation passed. Their common link was their connection to and passion for the food allergy community.

While we may not know each other by name, we know each other's hearts, frustrations, successes, and joys. We understand the sleepless nights, the hurt of being dismissed, and the disappointment of leaving unsafe environments. We share these experiences, and they bind us together.

Although our lives can get wildly busy with work, family, activities, and school, it’s critical to remember these precious connections. How can we maintain and develop those connections?

Consider joining a local support group to receive or offer support to those navigating each phase of the food allergy journey. If you're shy or short on time, join a social media group to discuss food allergy-related topics like travel, college, or recipes.

Follow your favorite allergen-friendly food manufacturer, connect with photos, and tell them how you use and enjoy their products. Develop relationships with those who make the products or medications that support your food allergy life. Share resources for patients with your allergist. Connect with a new parent at school or a colleague in the workplace and share a recipe, travel tip, or fun allergen-friendly treat.

To honor our priceless food allergy connections, FAACT invites you to connect with your community of friends, influencers, allergists, scientists, researchers, manufacturers, pharma, patients, and peers who understand and see you. Join us for FAACT's Digital Influencer Summit, which will be held in Oak Brook, Illinois, November 7-10. Everyone is welcome to this special event designed to engage and connect those with an impassioned interest in food allergies and related conditions. The Hotel cut-off date is October 16. And register by October 21.

We know this food allergy journey well; our heartstrings and connections are forever attached to this loving and life-changing community. FAACT is always by your side.

We hope to see you at the Digital Influencer Summit!