For grins, I typed up my family’s food allergy and asthma management commandments. The purpose was for fun, but it truly serves as a gentle reminder as my busy tribe sometimes forgets our rules of thumb. Here is my list, but more importantly, do you have any rules you live by that you can share with the rest of us? If so, please comment below!
This sign hangs in our kitchen as a reminder!
Food allergy
Thall shalt always carry Epi Pens and inhaler (as a parent, I carry back up in my purse).
Thall shalt know what is in thy food.
Thall shalt never say, “oh, it’ll be okay..”
Thall shalt follow they gut and if it doesn’t feel right..don’t do it, don’t eat it…just don’t!
Thall shalt plan ahead for parties, events and travel.
Thall shalt call manufacturers when labeling is not clear or items that are imported-always.
Thall shalt take language barriers into consideration.
Thall shalt treat folks who do not understand food allergies with respect and try to educate them.
Thall shalt always acknowledge and say thank you to everyone who tries to help. Especially those who get it!
Thall shalt not throw curses upon those who get it and still don’t care.
This image is from the Asthma House found in a wonderful online learning tool located at Lungtropolis.com
Asthma
Thall shalt always carry rescue inhaler.
Thall shalt never go near anyone smoking.
Thall shalt know the difference between maintenance medications and rescue medications.
Thall shalt understand all asthma triggers and avoid them.
Thall shalt educate they self regarding asthma control.
Thall shalt see physician annually for lung function testing.
Thall shalt stay indoors during poor air quality days.
Thall shalt insist on clean air.
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!..