Dear Allergy Parents,
First and foremost, I want to express my heartfelt understanding. Well, perhaps “understanding” isn’t the right word. I can empathize in theory, but the truth is, I have never walked in your shoes.
I can’t imagine the constant anxiety that fills your heart every moment your child is away from you. The worry that a seemingly innocent sandwich could put your child in harm’s way is something I have never experienced. I have not felt the panic of rushing to the emergency room, watching in horror as your child struggles to breathe or breaks out in hives.
I haven’t spent countless hours negotiating with restaurant staff about every ingredient, or felt the frustration of filling out endless school forms while fearing they might get lost. I don’t know the anxiety of choosing a purse based on whether it can hold an EpiPen, nor the relief of finding it buried under a pack of tissues after a moment of panic.
So, no, I cannot truly know what it is like to be an allergy parent.
What I do understand, however, is the depth of love you have for your child. I know that fierce protectiveness that makes you want to shield your little one from every possible danger, yet this desire is intertwined with the understanding that you must also prepare them for independence. I know the joy that comes from wanting your child to thrive, to be healthy, happy, and brave.
Even though I don’t have firsthand experience with allergies, I promise to strive to understand your journey. I will show you empathy, solidarity, and compassion. I will actively ask about what your child can eat instead of focusing on what they cannot. I will go the extra mile to find those hard-to-get snacks that are safe for your child. I will listen patiently as you explain your child’s dietary restrictions when they come to play at our home. I will make a point to inquire about allergies and ensure that my child’s lunchbox is safe for all classmates.
I recognize that you are doing everything in your power to keep your child safe, just as all parents strive to do. While I may not know the specifics of your struggles, I understand the profound love that drives you.
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In summary, I may not know the challenges of being an allergy parent, but I do understand the love that guides you. I’m committed to doing my part to support you and your child.