My Unique Opportunity to Offer A Hands On Epi Pen Experience For High School Teachers

I experienced my unique opportunity at my boys’ high school on Monday…I gave an Epi Pen presentation at their staff meeting.

I spoke in front of the entire staff of high school teachers, gave an Epi Pen demonstration with an Epi Pen Trainer and offered a hands-on experience administering ‘real expired Epi Pens’ in to an orange. (oranges best simulate the resistance that an Epi Pen would experience being injected into the upper thigh)

This is a picture of Matthew practicing at home with an expired Epi Pen…I was too busy to snap a few pictures at the meeting.

My opportunity arose at the beginning of the 2012 school year. I mentioned to the Vice-Principal, at the boys’ high school, that I had some expired Epi Pens. I explained the Epi Pen demonstration I presented to Matthew’s Grade 8 class at the end of the school year (May, 2012)…I had brought in a couple of expired Epi Pens for Matthew’s Grade 8 teacher and Epi Pen Buddy to administer in to an orange.

The Vice-Principal was intrigued with the idea and came up with a plan…offer Michael and Matthew’s high school teachers the opportunity to practice with an expired Epi Pen on the first Professional Development Day. Unfortunately, that day did not work out…I was rescheduled for the next staff meeting.

I knew I would have a limited time to speak/demonstrate/and have the teachers practice with the expired Epi Pens. As I tend to get carried away, ramble on and get lost in tangents…I called Anaphylaxis Canada for some advice.

I spoke with Jane who had just recently joined Anaphylaxis Canada. Jane revealed to me that her daughter, in her twenties now, has food allergies…her daughter was bullied throughout her school years. Jane was more than delighted to put together a package for me which I picked up the very next day. (I happened to be passing through Toronto…Anaphylaxis Canada is easy to get to from the 401)

Jane had posters (Life-Threatening Allergic Reactions…listing the signs and symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction and Why Risk It?…a site for Canadian teens with food allergies), pamphlets, a list of alternate resources, a Twinjet Demonstrator with instructions and was even able to find an Epi Pen trainer for me to bring for a demonstration. (See above photo)

Jane’s advice to me…relay the importance of quickly administering the Epi Pen without hesitation…seconds count…administering an Epi Pen will not hurt the student…time is of the essence! Great advice…thank you Jane.

I have to admit…I was a bit nervous presenting in front of my boys’ entire high school staff. Good thing I practiced!

What did I hope the high school teachers would take from my presentation and hands on experience with an Epi Pen?

The Bottom Line:

1)  All staff should know who the students with anaphylaxis are…by sight.
2)  All staff should be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis.
3)  All staff should be trained in the proper administration of an Epi Pen and follow-up (delegate someone to call 911 and report back, delegate someone to retrieve the backup Epi Pen from the office, treat for shock, note time of administration, administer second Epi Pen if signs and symptoms worsen, call emergency contact, wait for ambulance) to eliminate any hesitation and delay of medication.
4)  Together we can save a life.

Overall, I was extremely pleased with how many teachers were eager to try out the expired Epi Pens.

Many teachers had lots of questions…it was a bit chaotic…an adrenaline rush…it was a unique opportunity for the high school teachers to partake in…I hope I made an impact…I would do it all again in a minute!

I felt very honoured to have been invited to speak about Anaphylaxis and the Epi Pen in front of my boys’ high school teachers…I believe it was a first for all of us. Thank you so much!

This unique opportunity opens the doors of communication which is imperative when dealing with teenage students in high school settings with anaphylaxis.

Increasing awareness and education of anaphylaxis and the proper administration of an Epi Pen without hesitation, I believe, is key to saving lives.

I hope this is the first of many presentations!

P.S. Have you ever practiced with your expired Epi Pens in an orange? What did you think about it? Do you own an Epi Pen or TwinJet Trainer?

Highschool and Multiple Food Allergies: Teachers Can Make A Difference

I wanted to share with you my latest experience in regards to my son with multiple food allergies in highschool.

On Sunday, I received a call from Michael’s Grade 11 Math teacher. He needed a reminder of all of Michael’s food allergies (the medical form was at school)  as he planned to bring in a box of muffins and juice boxes for Michael’s math class on Monday. (Michael’s food allergies include dairy, egg, beef, sesame, fish, shellfish, peanut/tree nuts, mustard and raspberry)

Apparently, Michael’s math class did surprisingly well on Friday’s math test by achieving between 90-100%! Michael’s Math teacher was astounded with the results, thus prompting a mini celebration of their achievements.

Michael’s teacher wanted to know if there was anything safe he could bring in for Michael to eat. I explained to him the difficulty in finding a baked good that is free of dairy, egg, sesame and peanut/tree nuts. As I had just made a batch of Dairy and Peanut/Tree Nut Free Rice Krispie Squares…I offered that Michael could bring one of those to eat in class.

I explained to the teacher…lately, Michael seems to be very sensitive to being centered out as the ‘kid with lots of food allergies’. For the teacher to bring something in ‘special’ would more than likely centre Michael out…being able to casually bring out a ‘treat’ of his own would, more than likely, be less conspicuous. After talking with Michael…I had made the right decision.

Michael’s teacher understood completely…he disclosed that his child carries an epi pen for their cashew and sesame allergy.

This is the third teacher at Michael’s highschool that has informed me of having a child with a food allergy. It certainly helps spread the word about food allergies and anaphylaxis when teachers in the school system are living their lives with food allergies themselves.

To get the ‘ball rolling’…communication plays a key role in educating our teachers/general public on food allergies and anaphylaxis: relaying our experiences with food related allergic reactions…putting real names and faces to anaphylactic reactions…presenting access to further forms of information to increase the awareness of food allergies and anaphylaxis in our schools, workplace and extra curricular activities…these are all ways we can spread the word to bring food allergies/anaphylaxis to the forefront.

Anaphylaxis is not something to hide behind.

I know for a fact, that all the work I have done in regards to providing as much information on anaphylaxis as I can for my boys’ teachers, has “got the teachers talking”…as told to me by the Vice-Principal of my boys’ highschool.That means the world to me!

I  must have thanked Michael’s Math teacher ‘a million times’ for calling…repeated ‘a million times’ how much I appreciated the call…teachers like Michael’s Math teacher are worth their weight in gold!

After speaking, at length, to Michael’s Math teacher, I relayed our conversation to Michael…he decided he would take in a Dairy and Peanut/Tree Nut Free Rice Krispie Square, which he may or may not eat during Math class.

At the end of the day, I asked Michael whether or not he did actually eat his snack…”Ya” was the only response I got until he pointed out, “The muffins looked really good though.”

Broke my heart…

How do address food related issues in your child/children’s classrooms with their food allergies?

P.S. Michael was rather disappointed that I did not ask his Math teacher the mark on his math test…he had to wait until Monday to find out he achieved 100%! The principal of the school even showed up to congratulate the class and hand out the tests.

Multiple Food Allergies and Teenagers: Trying Not To Step Over The Fine Line

My eldest son, Michael, turned 16 this summer. 

Living the life of a teenager…he looks forward to playing house league hockey each week, shares a paper route with his younger brother, Matthew, spends his extra time playing road hockey or basketball with his brother and friends, or disappears to the ‘man cave’ to play videos.

Along with the ‘fun teenage stuff’… first and foremost, comes school.

Michael worked hard at school last year to achieve an Honours average in Grade 10…my husband and I are so very proud…it has been quite the journey.

Michael lives everyday with multiple food allergies, asthma and eczema. A fact he would love to forget…love to see disappear…love for me to stop talking about.

This is worrisome for me. According to an article written by Gwen Smith, editor of Allergic Living Magazine, Dr. Antony Ham Pong states, ” For the life-threatening allergens the highest risk of dying is as a teenager.”  The article goes on to state that teenagers “act impulsively and sometimes take risks.” Dr. Ham Pong states, “There is a feeling of invulnerability that teenagers tend to have…if you ask them what the risks are, they know. But are they concerned? Not so much. It does not register with them.” Click here to view the entire article.

I understand that, as a teenager, Michael just wants to fit in. However, the reality is he is living his life with a life threatening condition…one that should not be taken lightly.

I am currently walking a fine line…establishing a safe environment within his school setting without centering Michael out within his peers.

This year, I find myself treading in the ‘unchartered waters’ of the teenage years.

MIchael’s Vice-Principal came up with the idea that I prepare an allergy friendly treat for Michael to enjoy after The Honours Night ceremony. The Vice-Principal presented the idea to the teacher who was organizing the event and advised me to contact them.  The teacher was more than pleased to prepare an allergy friendly treat, however, after discussing cross-contamination issues, it was agreed that I would prepare the treat.

Unfortunately, Michael did not feel the same way…he would prefer that I forget the whole idea…he did not want anything made.

Honours Night was all about celebrating those students who have made the effort to achieve a high standing average at school. It was a night to celebrate Michael’s academic achievements.

Keeping that in mind…I wanted Michael to feel comfortable. I wanted him to enjoy the night. I wanted him to feel proud of his achievement…to know how proud my husband and I are that he reached his goal. I wanted to honour Michael’s feelings…I did not feel I should compromise his night.  I wanted him to experience ‘feeling like everyone else’…I chose not to bake anything allergy friendly.

The teenage years is a hard time to embrace one’s uniqueness.

Stepping back, I know this was the right decision. How do I prepare my children to be independent, cognizant, productive members of society? How to I prepare my children for the insensitivities of those around them?

I believe, building my boys’ sense of pride, self-worth and self-esteem is fundamental in a world where compassion may be lacking. At the same time, I also believe educating the general public with the basics of anaphylaxis and the proper administration of an epi pen to be vital first aid knowledge. Click here for Anaphylaxis Canada’s post on ‘Understanding Anaphylaxis’.

Anaphylaxis Canada maintains and operates, Why Risk It? Where Real Life and Allergies Collide. A site dedicated for teenagers with food allergies at risk for anaphylaxis. Click here for a link to the site.

With stories of bullying, carrying an auto-injector (epi pen), cross-contamination, dating, dining out, partying, public places, reading labels, school, and travel…teenagers are presented with other teenagers experiences leaving them feeling less alone. Click here for a link.

Why Risk It? even has a blog…‘written and maintained by members of Anaphylaxis Canada’s Youth Advisory Panel, a group of allergic youth from across Canada.’ Click here to view.

I will continue to tread lightly during these teenage years , being careful of that fine line…spreading the word on anaphylaxis and listening to my boys’ needs without losing sight of the potential danger of apathy on their part.

P.S. Needless to say, it was a great night! Inspirational Keynote Address by a former student who is now an English/Dance teacher at the school (Michael’s current English teacher), beautiful soloist by one of the students and an amazing motivational video that we all felt was outstanding!

P.P.S. Slices of chocolate slab cake and coffee was offered at the reception…I didn’t try a piece, but I am sure my Dairy, Egg, Soy and Peanut/Tree Nut Chocolate Cake would have given that cake a run for its money! lol  :)

How are you handling the teenage years with your teenaged child/children with food allergies?

Back To School With Food Allergies: Matthew Starts Highschool: Part 2

Last Monday, I had both Michael and Matthew hand out their Medical Information Sheets to their 4 teachers…the Individual Student Plan also made its rounds. (Click here to read Part 1 covering both)

On Thursday night, Andy and I attended a Grade 9 Night for parents. It was a great opportunity for parents to take part in a typical Grade 9 day by following their child’s timetable. It was a chance to hear the expectations of their teachers, voice any concerns, followed by a presentation by the Guidance Office, Parent Council, Vice-Principals and Principal.  Various programs the school have to offer were outlined…options available for setting students up for success.

By handing out Matthew’s Medical Information Sheet and Individual Student Plan at the beginning of the week before the Grade 9 event, it gave Matthew’s teachers an opportunity to familiarize themselves with his medical backround…opening the door to any questions they may or may not have upon our initial meeting.

In those first few minutes before Matthew’s teachers started their presentation to the parents, I quickly introduced myself. I must say, all the teachers were very receptive to the information they received.

I learned one of his teacher’s has a child with Type 1 Diabetes and had already discussed Matthew’s peanut/tree nut allergy with the class (Michael also had this teacher in Grade 9). Another teacher disclosed that they have a child with a peanut/tree nut allergy and has grown out of some of their other food allergies. This teacher, in particular, was excited to learn of Allergic Living Magazine.

I had previously presented a copy of  the Fall 2012 Allergic Living Magazine to the Vice-Principal.  While perusing the magazine together, I learned that one of the school’s staff members is celiac…each edition includes regular sections devoted to ‘Celiac Expert, Shelley Case’ and ‘Gluten-Free Girl, Shauna James Ahern’, plus loads of ‘gluten-free recipes’, along with the magazine’s other great allergy/asthma related sections…the Vice-Principal was very impressed!

I believe this edition/magazine is a ‘must have’ for all schools with students/teachers with food allergies/asthma/celiac disease. I purchased this specific Fall 2012 Allergic Living Magazine edition for my boys’ highschool. The Vice-Principal will be handing it over to be available in the library for both teachers and students.

It is my hope that the school will decide that an Allergic Living Magazine subscription be a permanent fixture in their library.

Particular articles I marked and quickly pointed out to Matthew’s teachers:

-Editor, Gwen Smith’s, Editor’s Note titled ‘Schooled in Allergies’:  highlights her inspiration for nominations for the ’2012 School Food Allergy Super Hereos’ article. I love her quote…”Education, done well, is a wonderful and powerful thing”. She ends with…”Afterall, when kids are safe in school, they can get back to what they’re there for: learning and finding out what bright future lies ahead.”

-Allergic Living’s School Food Allergy Super Heroes article: 6 uplifting stories highlighting principals, teachers and support staff as allergy-aware leaders.

-Avoiding Asthma Triggers At School article: highlights the increased occurence of asthma flare-ups in the fall season which seems to coincide with the return to the classroom. A list of classroom triggers is presented.

-Laura Harada, Executive Director of Anaphylaxis Canada’s article titled, ‘Off to College’ with an additional article by her son, Julian D’Souza, titled, ‘Son’s Point of View’: what a relief to read that most universities see food allergies as a reason for a single dorm room! I really enjoyed reading from a student with food allergies perspective.

-Kelly Rudnicki’s article titled, “The New Kid”:  A mother’s journey, in the United States, with her son with severe food allergies and asthma with various school systems.  

As you can see, this Fall 2012 edition of Allergic Living is a gem! (this is solely my opinion, no one is paying me to recommend this magazine)

As result of my interactions with the Vice-Principal…

1)  The Vice-Principal has encouraged me to join Parent Council…my presence this year would enable me to take part, in particular, with Graduation. As Michael will be graduating the following year, it could be beneficial for the school and myself to have an allergy awareness voice on the panel.

2)  I am currently looking into volunteering my time for Honours Night…students graduating with Honours the previous year come back for an evening where they are honoured. Michael achieved Honours last year…as there will be food present, I am looking to prepare some allergy friendly treats.

3)  I am waiting for confirmation of another activity to participate in…more details to come if it gets approved.

Matthew was initially nervous heading off to high school, however, the Vice-Principal’s attention to detail…introduction to the cafeteria staff and his teacher’s responses to his peanut/tree nut allergy…has seemed to put him at ease. He just recently said to me, “I feel very comfortable at school. The people there really seem to ‘get it’.” With tears in my eyes…” I thank you!”

As a mother with boys with food allergies, I feel my presence in the high school has been very welcoming…it has been quite a pleasure entering the high school and greeted with friendly, welcoming smiles from all the high school staff.

I believe in raising the awareness of anaphylaxis with food allergies through education. I believe together we can make school’s a safe environment where all students can learn.

P.S. Michael has just let me know that one of his teachers would like him to bring in the epi pen trainer to try in the classroom.

Questions: How do you approach your child with food allergies school? Do you get involved with Parent Council, volunteering in the classroom, presentations to staff/students, field trips and/or events at your child with food allergies school? Do you subscribe to Allergic Living Magazine? What do you enjoy about Allergic Living Magazine?

I know that is a lot of questions…I just really would love to hear how other families relate with their child with food allergies schools…I am always open to ideas/tips/your views! Please leave a comment…I would love to hear from you!

Back To School With Food Allergies: Matthew Starts Highschool: Part 1

It’s that time of year again…back to school! Time to organize myself in regards to the boys’ epi pens, puffers, Individual Student Plans and Medical Information Sheets for their teachers.

This year both my boys will be attending high school. Michael is entering Grade 11 and Matthew Grade 9.

Looking back upon when Michael first started at high school, I was initially a little shocked that there really did not seem to be anything in place for students with anaphylaxis.  For example, there were no copies of the Individual Student Plan…I got the sense that they had never seen one before.

Much to the school’s credit, they were more than willing to listen and work with me as I unfolded my ideas. Click here to read about how I set up Matthew in Grade 8 and Michael in his first year at high school.

Two years later, I am now known on site as I walk into the main office. I deal with one secretary, in particular, regarding the boys’ epi pens, puffers, and Individual Student Plans and Medical Information Sheets along with the Vice-Principal. Through my process of putting together Matthew’s Medical Information Sheet, Individual Student Plan and my popping in to drop off Matthew’s forgotten epi pen…the Attendance Secretary also, now knows me on site.

All have been ever so helpful, understanding and have encouraged me to continue to voice my concerns and ideas. I can’t tell you how much that means to me!

Enter Matthew…I was ever so pleased that this year, the main office had copies of the Individual Student Plan for me to fill out for Matthew. Last year, I just updated Michael’s Grade 9 Individual Student Plan, took it to his pediatrician and had both he and I initial the updated version. This year, rather than taking the entire Individual Student Plan, the office has photocopied the section his doctor has filled out. I will take the photocopy for him to initial at our next appointment. I shall do the same for Matthew next year.

Apparently, at the beginning of last year’s school year, all students, who had been identified to the office as anaphylactic, were called down to the office and given an Individual Student Plan to fill out…progress!

Each year, I create an updated Medical Information Sheet on my boys for each of their four teachers to keep in their student file with a copy for the substitute teacher. I keep it brief, to the point, on one page…with a recent student picture attached.  

The Medical Information Sheet basically outlines the boys’ specific food allergies, notes they have asthma, their medications, location of medications, and step-by-step instructions on ‘what to do in case of an emergency’….anaphylactic shock.

I also attach a copy with the definition of anaphylaxis, the top 11 food triggers, and symptoms of anaphylaxis and asthma. It is a quick reference guide for the teachers to have on hand as the Individual Student Plan is filed away in the office.

Before the boys hand out the their Medical Information Sheets, I review them with the Vice-Principal, leaving the original copy for the office to have on file. Copies are posted in the teachers’ lounge.

As the only copy of the Individual Student Plan for each of the boys is kept filed in the office…I have set up a process where by each of the boys’ Individual Student Plans are passed between their teachers for review.

My feeling is that many teachers’ are unaware of its existence…sending it around for their review brings it to their attention. For instance:  this year, one of Michael’s teachers approached the Vice-Principal in regards to Michael’s medical information packages. apparently, this teacher has a child with food allergies and was unaware of such a procedure. After discussing the importance of the packages educational value, this teacher has decided to put one together for their child…more progress!

Attached to the Individual Student Plan is a cover letter introducing my boys and their medical conditions…food allergies and asthma. I highlighted Anaphylaxis Canada’s website as a good reference and encouraged them to read Sabrina’s Story. (I gave a brief description of who she is and how Sabrina’s Law came in to effect)

At the bottom of the cover letter are the boys’ specific teachers’ names with a line for the teachers to sign after they have read over the Individual Student Plan. (I encourage the teachers to pay particular attention to page 6…The List of Strategies To Prevent an Anaphylactic Reaction)

Last year, Andy received a call from one of Michael’s teachers. The teacher did not feel comfortable signing the cover letter. Andy asked if she had read over Michael’s Individual Student Plan…she had. Bottom line…at the end of the day, that is really all we want. We had no problem with the teacher omitting their signature.

As a result of this experience,  I have updated this year’s cover letter to include a note stating that if the teacher does not feel comfortable signing the sheet, they are to let the Vice-Principal know they have read over the boys’ Individual Student Plan.

This journey is a learning experience for all of us.

Ulitimately…if one of my boys is seen having trouble breathing, displaying one or many of the symptoms of anaphylactic shock or is found collapsed on the floor…the first thing I want teachers/students to think is…this could be an allergic reaction…they could be in anaphylactic shock….ADMINISTER THE EPI PEN, CALL 911! 

Click here for Part 2.

What procedures do you go through in order to set up your child with food allergies at their school? What have you learned on your journey? Any tips?

Dairy, Egg, Soy and Peanut/Tree Nut Free Grade 8 Graduation Cupcakes!

Last night, my youngest son, Matthew, officially graduated from Grade 8!

Yes, a few tears were shed…I was a very proud mama…he graduated with Honours!

Celebrations started earlier in the day…a Peanut/Tree Nut Free Pizza Party for the graduating class along with the entire staff! (Pizza was ordered from Pizza Nova. Click here for their allergen information site.)

A couple of Matthew’s former teachers, which have left the school, attended last night’s Grade 8 Graduation ceremony…so nice of them to return and celebrate with their former students.

Apparently, when Michael graduated 2 years ago , his graduating class was the first in the history of graduating classes to have so many former teachers return for their Graduation! It was so nice to see the tradition continue this year too!

Both my boys have been extremely fortunate…both classes were bully free!  A very important factor considering the high risk factor associated with food allergies. Click here for a great article written by Laurie Harada at Allergic Living Magazine, titled, ‘If Your Child Is Bullied.’ Laurie offers some great advice.

I offered to bake allergen friendly cupcakes for the party…

Dairy, Egg, Soy and Peanut/Tree Nut Free Chocolate and Vanilla Cupcakes!

It makes me so happy to see the students faces light up at the site of my cupcakes. A grade 7 student spied me leaving the school carrying my empty cupcake containers, “Are those your famous cupcakes?”, he queried.

All through the years, students have been enjoying my baking…unaware that dairy, egg, soy and peanuts or tree nuts are not on the ingredient list.

Proving…allergen friendly baking is kid friendly and delish!

One of Matthew’s classmates ‘fancy’ way of eating cupcakes!

Check out those gorgeous nails for her Grade 8 Grad!

At the party, I had the opportunity to chat with Matthew’s Grade 8 teacher…we discussed the journey that each of us has travelled while learning and adapting to living in a world with food allergies.

A journey better travelled in pairs…school and family working together to formulate a ‘safe environment’ for each and every student despite their ‘disability’. A journey full of communication, compromises and cooperation…a team approach.

Education is key…being in a school setting, one would think that should not be so difficult…yet for some it is! Why is that?

Food Allergy Mama recently moved to a new city.  Her journey with her son’s food allergies, dairy and nuts, begins again. Click here to read her frustrating story of having to start from ‘scratch’ with a new school system that ‘just does not get it’. My heart goes out to her and to the many families struggling to keep their children ‘safe’ at school.

Another 48 Dairy, Egg, Soy and Peanut/Tree Vanilla and Chocolate Cupcakes were left for the evening dance…subs were ordered from Mr. Sub…which were peanut/tree nut free. At the end of the evening, the leftover cupcakes were put away for the Grade 7 students, who helped out at the ceremony, to enjoy today.

I thank goodness for Sabrina’s Law…it has ‘opened the eyes and hearts’ of many…paving a path for all children with food allergies.

May Sabrina’s spirit live on as her story continues to spread…educating and ‘warming hearts’ across the country and around the world! If you are unfamiliar with Sabrina’s Story, click here to read an article written by Gwen Smith from Allergic Living Magazine.

My boys’ journey in grade school is now officially over, leaving me to focus more of my attention on the high school years.

I will continue to meet with and discuss my boys’ food allergies with highschool staff…educating all those who come in contact with my boys the importance of food allergy awareness.

Our trailblazing journey is not over yet!

Matthew’s graduating class of 2012 is a class full of hope and promise for the future! I wish them all well on their new journey!

I leave you with a quote for graduation that Matthew chose for it’s inspirational nature.

“It is impossible to live without failing at something unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all-”   J.K. Rowling, novelist.

Strawberry Picking At Watson’s Farms: Freezer Strawberry Jam, Dairy, Egg, Soy and Peanut/Tree Nut Free Strawberry Bread and Strawberry Bundt Cake

June brings the promise of ‘sweet strawberries’…there is nothing like the first taste of a freshly picked ‘sun-kissed strawberry!’

Fortunately, strawberries are not on any of our allergy lists…if strawberries are on yours, ‘I hear you’…there will be no raspberry picking in our family!

I was so ‘pumped’ to go strawberry picking this year…having missed out last year…my freezer strawberry jam was beginning to run low! ‘Oh no!’

So off I set, complete with straw hat, on a beautiful Thursday afternoon, to Watson’s Farms in Bowmanville.

Baskets in hand, I headed out on the tractor…just me, the driver and one other picker…to the fields that were literally ‘bursting’ with plump, juicy strawberries.

The sweet smell of strawberries infused the air…there was a feeling of ‘peacefulness and tranquility’ out in the fields away from all the hustle and bustle of the city…the mood, in the fields, felt like we had all ‘hit the jackpot!’

I claimed my row, crouched down low and unveiled the ‘ruby red jewels of mother nature!’

I have never seen such an abundance of strawberries!

‘Visions of’… jars of freezer strawberry jam, strawberry bread, strawberry pie, strawberry bundt cake, frozen strawberries for smoothies…danced in my head!

First up…Freezer Strawberry Jam! I just followed the directions on the package of Liquid Certo.

Perfect everytime…brings back childhood memories of when I used to make jam with my mom.

I made enough Freezer Strawberry Jam for Matthew to give a jar to every teacher he has had from SK to Grade 8!

He presented them to each of his teachers on Friday. A few tears were shed…by me…I can’t believe both my boys will be in highschool now…where has the time gone?

An extra special something was baked for Matthew’s Grade 8 teacher…Mr G!

I have been eyeing a Canadian Living’s Country Cookbook recipe for Strawberry Tea Bread for years now. Oats, cinnamon, strawberries, and the ability to sneak in some whole wheat flour un-noticed…perfect!

Dairy, Egg, Soy and Peanut/Tree Nut Free Strawberry Bread!

1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 1/2 cups of whole oats (not instant)
1 tsp cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp baking powder
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup canola oil
2 tbsp water
1 tsp pure vanilla
2 1/2 cups crushed strawberries

In a large bowl, combine the sugar, oil, water and vanilla. Stir to combine.
In a separate bowl, combine the flours, oats, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and cinnamon.
Add the dry to the wet ingredients and stir to combine. Mixture will be quite thick. Scrap off your spatula before adding the crushed strawberries.
Add the crushed strawberries to the mixture and stir to combine.
There is enough batter to make 4 mini loaves, or 1 large loaf and 1 mini loaf.
Choose your loaf pans, oil and flour them and place on a baking or cookie sheet.
Pour batter in chosen loaf pans.
Bake at 375 F: large loaf 45 minutes, mini loaves 35 minutes.

Tip: When baking the one large loaf and 1 mini loaf, I put the timer on for 35 minutes, removed the mini loaf and left the larger loaf in for another 10 minutes.
Let cool for 10 minutes on a cooling rack before removing from pans. Continue to cool on cooling racks.

Enjoy!

Dairy, Egg, Soy and Peanut/Tree Nut Free Strawberry Bread was a hit with myself, Matthew, his best friend and my neighbours. Michael, on the other hand, was put off by the oatmeal…pleasing the two of them is a challenge in and of itself!

No problem…I had enough strawberries for another ‘strawberry creation’ I was eager to try… Dairy, Egg, Soy and Peanut/Tree Nut Free Strawberry Bundt Cake!

Bingo! All the kids loved this one! Just substitute 1 1/4 cups of crushed strawberries for the banana in my Dairy, Egg, Soy and Peanut/Tree Nut Free Banana Bundt Cake.

Saturday was an extra special day…not only had I invited a couple of the neighbourhood ‘guinea pigs’ over to sample all of our ‘strawberry treats’…

but we also had something ‘special to celebrate!’

Happy Sweet 16th Victoria!

Tip: Loaves like these are perfect for freezing to save and enjoy the ‘fruits of summer’ throughout the year! I have frozen a large loaf to share with my Scottish cousin and his family when they visit this August. A couple of mini loaves have been frozen to take as gifts with a jar of Freezer Strawberry Jam for when we travel and stay with friends.

P.S. I love to make Strawberry Freezer Jam for a couple of reasons: firstly, the simplicity of it all…no processing in a hot water bath canner. Secondly, for travelling purposes, the frozen jam works as a freezer pack in the cooler and makes a handy ‘hostess gift’ upon arrival at our destination!

P.P.S. I made sure I had enough Strawberry Jam and Dairy, Egg, Soy and Peanut/Tree Nut Free Strawberry Mini Breads to share with my neighbours/friends. Over the years, so many of them have been so supportive of myself and my family…watching over my boys, sharing words of wisdom, recipes, and flowers from their gardens. Between the neighbours on either side of us, Andy never needs to worry about cutting the front lawn…one of them even weeds for me!

A big ‘thank you’ to you all!

Celebrating With Dairy, Egg, Soy and Peanut/Tree Nut Free Chocolate and Vanilla Sheet Cakes

Two years ago, my eldest son, Michael was in Grade 8. I was stopping by his school to pick him up for a doctor’s appointment when I bumped into his teacher. It was then that I was made aware of the fact that Michael would be missing out on the cake to celebrate the Grade 8′s Confirmation the night before.

I think at the same time Michael’s teacher spoke the words, it dawned on him…Michael is allergic to dairy, eggs, sesame and peanut/tree nuts…bakery cakes are off-limits.

I asked to see the cake…a Chocolate Sheet Cake. I thought to myself, “I could make that”. The wheels started churning.

As graduation was on the horizon, I enquired as to whether there would be a Graduation Cake. Sure enough, a cake would be ordered, along with a luncheon for the Grade 8′s on Graduation Day.

My head was spinning…I quickly offered to bake the Graduation Cake and started thinking about a plan for the luncheon…Caesar Salad, Lasagna, and Garlic Bread. All three dishes Michael would not be able to eat due to his food allergies.

I created Garlic Bread by toasting my homemade sub buns with olive oil, fresh garlic and salt. The lasagna was made by layering Turkey Spaghetti Meat Sauce and lasagna noodles and baking. As Michael was not fond of salads at this time, I took a pass on recreating a Caesar Salad. I also baked two sheets cakes…Dairy, Egg, Soy and Peanut/Tree Nut Chocolate and Vanilla.

I was crazy busy…but it was all worth it! Everything went off without a hitch!

Fast forward 2 years…my second son, Matthew, is currently in Grade 8. Matthew has a peanut/tree nut allergy so bakery cakes are off-limits for him too. Especially since it was a bakery cake that led him to have his first allergic reaction!

This time I made sure to offer to bake the Confirmation Cake early on in the year!

This Wednesday night was Matthew’s Grade 8 Confirmation Night. Thursday was my baking/icing day and today I am delivering the cakes to the school.

Dairy, Egg, Soy and Peanut/Tree Nut Free Chocolate Sheet Cake

Dairy, Egg, Soy and Peanut/Tree Nut Free Vanilla Sheet Cake

The students will enjoy a piece of cake after receiving their Confirmation certificates in a school ceremony.

Update: A couple of lovely students volunteered to take a piece of cake to the principal

and the secretary. A big thank you to my lovely hand models! Check out the funky nail polish and bright blue hand gloves! Love it!

All but two pieces were eaten…although I am sure they will not last long!

As a parent of children with multiple food allergies, as much as I try to stay on top of all the upcoming food related events at the school, I have had my share of ‘mess ups’.

I am thankful for my understanding boys who have never let it show whether or not they are affected by all the food related activities they have attended without something ‘safe’ for them to eat. I like to think all my insistence that activities are never about the food but about the activity itself deflected some of the isolation they may have felt. I can only hope…a mother’s guilt runs deep.

I have learned ongoing communication throughout the school year is key! Keeping the communication open between the school and home has helped me to stay on top of all those food related events…not all, but most.  Volunteering in the classroom, on field trips and writing reminders in my boys’ agendas on any upcoming food related events have all strengthened my relationship with all my boys’ teachers.

Matthew will be graduating this year and off to highschool where Michael is finishing his second year. Communication is still a key factor. Keeping the lines of communication open continues to play a pivotal role in building relationships with the teachers and staff at such a large school.

For the most part, Michael is a trailblazer…we seem to throw people off when they hear of his list of food allergies…dairy, egg, beef, sesame, fish, shellfish, peanut/tree nuts, mustard and raspberries. Keeping this in mind, communication once again becomes all the more relevant to creating a safe learning environment for Michael and all those students who follow in his footsteps!

Our journey is a constant learning experience!

Staying positive, getting involved, keeping informed, being non-judgemental, and maintaining an open mind have fared me well on my journey with multiple food allergies, eczema and asthma in the school system.

How do you cope with food allergies in the school system?

P.S. Click here for the recipe for my Dairy, Egg, Soy and Peanut/Tree Nut Free Chocolate Cake recipe and click here for the recipe for my Dairy, Egg, Soy and Peanut/Tree Nut Free Vanilla Cake recipe. To bake a 13 by 19 inch sheet cake, double the cake recipes and bake at 325 F for 40 – 45 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean.

P.P.S. My last creative endeavour for this Grade 8 class will be their Graduation Surprise! Stay tuned!

Tip: For a gluten-free version I would try using Namaste Perfect Flour Blend to replace the unbleached all-purpose flour.

Day 2 in a Series on Cross-Contamination and Food Allergies: Grade 8 Graduation Trip to Camp Muskoka 2010 and 2012

This morning, I waved good bye to Matthew as he headed off with his fellow classmates for their Grade 8 Graduation Trip to Camp Muskoka in beautiful Bracebridge, Ontario.

All aboard!

The teachers look super excited!

Yes, a few tears were shed…I know I was not alone!

The Grade 8 Graduation Trip is an exciting new adventure for the students to embark on…a perfect way to celebrate finishing their grade school years!

An experience of a lifetime!

I know it is Matthew’s first trip away from home without family…made a little more nerve racking when food allergies and asthma are involved. (peanut/tree nut)

I can assure you, I am feeling quite confident that all the safety measures have been put in place to ensure a successful Camp Muskoka adventure.

My eldest son, Michael (dairy,egg,beef,sesame,fish,shellfish,peanut/tree nuts,mustard and raspberry, asthma and eczema) enjoyed his Camp Muskoka adventure 2 years ago with his Grade 8 Graduation Class.

Many safety measures were established to prevent any cross-contamination with Michael’s food…our experience with Michael at Camp Muskoka gives me the confidence for Matthew’s trip.

Recap of Michael’s Camp Muskoka Graduation Trip of 2010

Camp Muskoka focuses on ‘good nutrition’ following Health Canada’s Food Guide and is a ‘Nut Safe’ environment following Anaphylaxis Canada’s Prevention Policy. (all staff are trained in the knowledge of food allergies, the prevention of cross-contamination, and the administration of an epi pen)

Camp Muskoka’s brochure states: “If your child has any special dietary needs (.i.e. vegetarian, diabetic, allergy specific) please detail these needs on your Camp Muskoka registration application and contact the Camp Muskoka Registrar to discuss arrangements.”

Planning Stages:

Stage 1: The year before the trip

Planning for Michael’s Graduation Trip started while he was in Grade 7. Anticipating his participation the following year, I discussed his food allergies, asthma and eczema with the Grade 8 teacher, Mr. G. (Mr. G. is currently Matthew’s Grade 8 teacher and was Michael’s. Matthew also had Mr. G. for Grade 7.)

Mr. G. is well versed in my boys’ food allergy emergency plans!

Mr. G. suggested that he would discuss Michael’s food allergies with the staff at Camp Muskoka on the 2009 Graduation Trip. Upon his return, I was assured that Camp Muskoka would be able to accomodate Michael’s mulitple food allergies. Sigh of relief!

Stage 2:  Parent Information Night

At the start of the Grade 8 school year, a representative from Camp Muskoka held a Parent Information Night. It was at this time, I bombarded the representative with questions and presented him with an outline of Michael’s multiple food allergies and the products that were considered allergen ‘safe’. I even attached a photo of Michael.

I was, as you can imagine, very concerned, worried, nervous…

Once again, I was reassured that Camp Muskoka would be able to meet Michael’s allergen needs. I was advised to contact the head chef, Michael to discuss the details.

Stage 2: Working with Camp Muskoka’s Head Chef Michael

My first contact with Chef Michael was by phone. I felt an initial personal first contact by phone necessary to establish good rapport. Very important when one wants to convey the seriousness of multiple food allergies, cross-contamination and the prevention of an anaphylactic reaction.

By phone, Chef Michael and I ironed out all the specifics:

-Michael would not eat buffet style
-Michael would have separate cutting boards, kitchen tools, pots, pans, plate and utensils kept separately. They would be washed and disinfected daily.
-Michael’s food would be prepared separately from the other food being prepared in the kitchen.
- Michael’s meal would be presented to him already plated.
-Chef Michael and I reviewed his menu plan discussing ingredient lists, food options and substitutions.
-It was agreed that due to Michael’s multiple food allergies, there were certain food items that Camp Muskoka would not be able to accomodate. Mainly all breads and baked goods. (Baked good contain some of Michael’s food allergens)

Chef Michael emailed me his menu plan for review. Between the two of us, we created a menu plan free of all Michael’s food allergens. A copy was made complete with emergency contact information, all Michael’s food allergens, all the food and drink products he was not to consume, and all the food I would be sending from home along with the food that Camp Muskoka would provide. Copies were given to all teachers’ and Camp Muskoka staff for quick reference.

Food Sent From Home

-Dairy, Egg, Soy and Peanut/Tree Nut Free Banana Bundt Cake baked in a 6 mold mini bundt pan for a substitute for muffins at breakfast and as a snack.
-Pure Maple Syrup for the Organic Pancakes (an allergen safe organic pancake mix with rice milk and an egg substitute was made for all the students on the trip for breakfast)
-allergen safe sliced ham for sandwiches
-Dairy,Egg,Soy,Sesame and Peanut/Tree Free Sub Buns for sandwiches and garlic bread
-Dairy,Egg and Peanut/Tree Nut Free Wacky Cake
-allergen safe pasta and meat sauce
-Dairy,Egg,and Peanut/Tree Nut Free Apple Crisp

Michael’s 2010 Camp Muskoka Grade 8 Graduation Trip Experience

The beginning of June 2010, I waived good bye to Michael, two coolers full of food, 3 epi pens, puffers and his asthma/eczema medications as he headed for his once in a lifetime adventure to Camp Muskoka.

Yes, tears were definitely shed. Yes, a part of me was nervous.

Parents, as a rule, are not to have contact with their children on the trip…Mr. G. bent them, just a little, and called me both nights to let me know everything was going smoothly. Thanks Mr. G.!

Michael came home with many stories and experiences that will last a lifetime!

Michael’s Camp Muskoka’s Grade 8 Graduation Trip was a success due to a team effort…teachers’ and Camp Muskoka staff working together with compassion, common sense, communication and an emergency plan. Priceless! I can’t thank you all enough!

Overview

I remind my kids all the time…read ingredient lists, never assume.

Accidents are called accidents because they are not planned. Thank goodness we can at least be prepared for accidents…because cross-contamination and injestion of food allergens is a reality.

That is why, as a parent with children with food allergies I teach my boys the Two Golden Rules: Always wash your hands and have your epi pen on hand before eating.

That is why, as parents with children with food allergies, we have emergency plans in place…that is why teachers’ and Camp Muskoka staff are trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis and how to administer epi pens…that is why students with life threatening food allergies need to carry epi pens and have back up epi pens available.

Being prepared means that when an accidental cross-contamination or injestion of a food allergy occurs…an anaphylactic reaction can be prevented.

Matthew 2012 Camp Muskoka Grade 8 Graduation Trip

Last week, I emailed Chef Michael and alerted him to Matthew’s peanut/tree nut allergy and his arrival today. He assured me that Camp Muskoka is still ‘Nut Safe’ and following Anaphylaxis Canada’s Policies. There is no need for me to send any food this time. Matthew will be travelling with his 3 epi pens, his puffers and all the gear needed for a winter adventure.

Not sure if I will be hearing from Mr. G. tonight for a recap on the day. I will try to be content in the knowledge that I have sent Matthew in capable hands.

In the meantime, I am eagerly awaiting Matthew’s arrival home on Friday to hear all his exciting stories and experiences at Camp Muskoka.

Question: Has anyone else sent their child/children to Camp Muskoka with food allergies? What experiences have you had sending your child/children on overight trips with food allergies? Please share.

Day 1 in a Series on Cross Contamination and Food Allergies: School Field Trips

Cross-contamination is every parents’ greatest fear when you have a child/children with food allergies. There is not a day that goes by when the thought doesn’t cross your mind.

Whether I am purchasing food in a store, choosing a dish in a restaurant, deciding to accept an invitation to a friend’s or family’s dinner/a child’s birthday party or a school outing, preparing food in my home, at a friend’s or at a family’s home…cross-contamination issues will arise.

Tackling those cross-contamination issues is yet another challenge.

School trips are one of the highlights of the school year. My boys are forever looking forward to them. In our house, school trips are never taken for granted. Each trip is carefully discussed to eleviate any risks for cross contamination which may lead to an anaphylactic reaction.

School Field Trips are an integral part of learning. Great hands on experiences: visiting the ROM to examine ancient artifacts or to learn all about water and our environment, visiting the AGO to view first hand, the treasures and artifacts of Tutankhamun, or reliving the life of a soldier living at Old Fort York.

Experiences to last a life time!

Unfortunately, food allergies can pose a few challenges. With a bit of compassion, common sense and an emergency plan in place those challenges can be met.

Case in point:

Matthew’s Grade 8 class has planned a bowling trip to Neb’s Fun World today, to meet and acquaint themselves with grade 8′s from another school going on their Grade 8 Graduation Trip to Camp Muskoka January 25-27, 2012.

A note came home describing the day: bowling in the morning with a pizza lunch and tokens for the games room.

Sounds fantastic!

Here’s the catch: when you have a peanut/tree nut allergy or any food allergy, one must double-check with the establishment their policy on food allergens and whether or not the food that will be served is contaminated with any food allergens.

I sent an email to Neb’s Fun World enquiring about their peanut/tree nut policy and whether or not their pizza would be safe for my son to eat.

A reply was quickly sent back with a note that the kitchen was not nut free, therefore they could not make any guarantees. It was up to my discretion as to whether or not he had the pizza. The reply also stated their policy is to ban outside food and drink however, in the case of a dietary allergy it did not apply. It was recommended that my son bring a safe lunch to be on the safe side. A PDF was attached with the pizza ingredient list.

I sent a reply back thanking them for their quick response and that I would be contacting them on Monday to discuss my son’s peanut/tree nut allergy.

A second reply advised me to contact Maria, co-president of Neb’s and head of the kitchen.

Maria was completely understanding and seemed pleased that I had called to discuss my concerns for my son’s peanut/tree nut allergy and Neb’s pizza lunch.

Maria was concerned about other patrons who may bring food in which may contain peanut/tree nuts. She had no control or guarantees regarding any outside food. I reassured her that I am aware of those instances and prepare for them wherever I go. My best defense: washing hands and always caring an epi pen.

Maria was also concerned that my son may be centered out by not having the pizza like the other kids. Her compassion for my son was very evident. I can’t tell you how relieved I felt talking with her. Maria took my concerns seriously…she totally got it!

My concern lay in the ingredients themselves and the process of making the pizza. As the pizza crust is made outside of the kitchen, Maria checked the ingredient list for any peanut/tree nut claims. Not only that, she personally called the pizza crust company to double-check and found that the pizza crust was peanut, dairy and shellfish free. Yeah!

Maria assured me that she would take an extra precaution and have Matthew’s pizza pan triple washed and bleached. (The pizza pans are used to bake the White Chocolate Macadamia Cookies and Chocolate Chip Cookies which may contain trace amounts of peanut/tree nuts. She would make sure that cookies were not baked that day.)

I know there are no guarantees no matter where we go. I feel comfortable with the preventative measures that Neb’s has put in place to prevent any cross contamination issues with peanut/tree nuts and the pizza that Matthew will be eating. I feel assured that they will do their best.

Everyone has their own level of risk tolerance… I felt that the measures taken to ensure Matthew’s safety made the situation low risk.

That said, an emergency/backup plan is always needed. Extra Epi Pens will be sent (the teacher and I will have an extra epi pen each) and hands will be washed before eating. I will be attending this field trip to help supervise the students and be a part of the teacher/supervisors bowling team!

Update: Upon my early arrival, I was informed that Maria was not available today. Her daughter Krista, however, was made aware of our arrangement and assured me that all was set for the preparation of Matthew’s peanut/tree nut free pizza.

With all the arrangements made, it was on to the games!

I have to admit…the shoes are quite comfortable and they add that touch of red that I always like! lol

Mr. G. (Matthew’s Grade 8 teacher) outplayed us all…he is The King of Bowling!

Note his perfect form! (Apparantly, he was out last night practicing!)

Mine, on the other hand, could use some work!

Matthew’s form shows great promise…right down the middle!

The students were given tokens to use in Neb’s Games Room.

That’s in the basket…nice shot!

Pizza time!

Matthew’s peanut/tree nut free ‘safe’ pizza was brought out to him straight from the oven…thank you Neb’s!

One happy, hungry boy!

Compassion, common sense, communication and an emergency plan…the ‘perfect ingredients’ for a successful school field trip.

P.S. Matthew’s field trip was a success due in part to the cooperation and understanding of his teachers’ and the staff at Neb’s Fun World. We all worked as a team to ensure the safety of Matthew at the event. Thank you all!

P.P.S. If you are considering visiting Neb’s Fun World and have food allergies, please contact Maria to discuss your specific needs. I only discussed cross-contamination with the pizza…they serve other food that would need discussing specific to one’s allergen needs.

P.P.P.S. The chocolate bars in the vending machines do not contain nuts, some may or may not contain traces due to the facility that manufactured them. Also the treats that you can purchase with your tickets from the Games Room may or may not contain traces of nuts.

Tip: Surprise your child by bringing your own allergen friendly treats to exchange for the tickets…one might be the promise to come back for another time!

Update: Since our visit, Neb’s Fun World has added, to their website, ingredient lists for all their most popular food items. This will be most helpful for the allergy community. Thank you Neb’s! Click here to check out the link.

Question: What experiences have you encountered with school field trips and your child/children’s food allergies and cross-contamination? Please share.