The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN) has been an amazing resource for me in managing food allergies. Once again, here is another great piece of info. that I believe needs to be shared! My son is an 8th grader, so our college prep currently consists of teaching him to manage his food allergies and asthma. One day too soon, we’ll be packing for college! I copied this from FAAN’s teen newsletter:
College Prep: Pack for Food Allergy Success
In between going to the beach, traveling, summer jobs, or just hanging out with your friends this summer, those of you who will soon head off for college will likely be doing some shopping in preparation for this major change in your life.
As you choose what to bring with you to college, be sure to give some thought as to what will make managing food allergies easier when you are away from home. Here are some suggestions:
- Bring your own microwave if possible; explain to your roommate(s) that you brought it for your dedicated use so that you don’t have to worry about splashes and spills from allergy-containing foods that are heated in the microwave.
- Purchase a large supply of packaged snacks, and make sure that these foods have a long shelf life.
- Take extra medication, checking expiration dates so that you don’t accidentally take medicine that is past its shelf life! If your doctor has prescribed you epinephrine, ask for a prescription for extra auto-injectors, in case you need them.
- Update your chef card and your Food Allergy Action Plan (with your doctor’s help), and bring along extra copies. Also consider laminating your chef card so that it holds up to wear and tear a little longer.
- Write down contact information for your doctor and a local pharmacy, and keep it in your wallet.
- Make an extra copy of your health insurance card, so that you’ll have the information you need to request a new one in the event you misplace the original.
Finally, the most important thing to pack is a positive attitude. Your food allergies don’t have to limit your activities. All you need is a positive attitude, common sense, and a good plan!
Does anyone have a college prep tip or ideas to share?
One of the hardest things I find about managing both life threatening food allergies and asthma is talking to others. I hate to be the one that might be perceived as demanding, pushing or for asking too much. What I now know, fourteen years later, is that honest, clear information presented with kindness works!..