Food Allergy Wisconsin

Chapter Meeting

2012-01-14T20:00:00.000-08:00

Questions about your or your loved one's food allergies? Join us for our next support group meeting!

Date: Tuesday, Jan 17, 2012

Time: 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Place: Holy Cross Lutheran School, Madison, WI

Topic: Open Discussion

A Tragic Loss

2012-01-09T14:25:00.000-08:00

Last week a young girl died at school from a peanut allergy. For those of us with children with food allergies, this is our worst nightmare come true. What makes this story even more unbearable is the fact that her death could have been prevented had the school reacted differently. If little Amarria Johnson had been given an EpiPen and 911 was called immediately, perhaps this child would still be alive today.

Read her story here: http://www.wtvr.com/news/wtvr-chesterfield-student-death-20120103,0,4150762.story

Click here to sign an online guest book for Amarria Johnson’s family: http://www.legacy.com/guestbook/timesdispatch/guestbook.aspx?n=amarria-johnson&pid=155347143&cid=full

What are some things we can do to prevent this tragedy from happening to us?

- Before the school year starts, be sure to discuss with school staff about your child’s food allergies and give the school a copy of your child’s Food Allergy Action Plan along with EpiPens and any other medications prescribed for your child.
- Ask your local food allergy support group if they are willing to give a presentation to your school district about how to keep students with food allergies safe in the school environment.
- Role play with your child so they know exactly what they should say and do if they think they are having an allergic reaction.
- Sign this petition to urge the U.S. Senate to pass the School Access to Emergency Epinephrine Act! https://www.change.org/petitions/save-allergic-childrens-lives-in-schools

Traveling with Food Allergies

2011-12-29T13:10:00.000-08:00

Tips for traveling with food allergies...

Managing Food Allergies While Traveling

EpiPen Warning

2011-12-28T14:58:00.000-08:00

Pfizer Canada, distributor of the EpiPen and EpiPen Jr autoinjectors, has issued a warning about the correct way to remove the blue safety cap on the devices.

"It has recently come to our attention that removal of the blue safety cap the wrong way by pulling it sideways or bending and twisting it off may prevent the device from working properly and potentially result in failure to deliver the drug," the company said in a release Thursday.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/health/story/2011/12/23/epipen-food-allergy-ana.html

Candy Cane Cocoa

2011-12-23T06:21:00.000-08:00

If you're looking for a quick last minute homemade gift for someone on your list, how about making a jar of allergy-friendly Candy Cane Cocoa? You can never go wrong with chocolate and mint in my opinion!

Candy Cane Cocoa
1 cup Dari-Free powder
1 cup cocoa powder
1 cup sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup Enjoy Life mini chocolate chips
1/2 cup crushed candy canes
1/2 cup mini marshmallows (optional)

Layer each ingredient in an airtight jar. Makes 1 quart of mix = 12 servings. Create a tag to attach to the jar with these instructions: Mix contents in large bowl. For each serving, place 1/3 cup cocoa mix in mug and stir in 1 cup of boiling water. Store remaining mix in the airtight jar.

Chef Cards

2011-12-02T11:46:00.001-08:00

A Chef Card can be a very helpful tool in communicating with restaurant staff about your food allergies. Depending on how you customize your personal card, it can list the foods you are allergic to, alternative names for your allergens, and/or how to safely prepare your food to avoid cross-contamination. Of course you should always ask to speak directly to the manager or chef to ensure their full understanding.

Here is a list of websites where you can either make your own Chef Card to print out or order premade cards. One site listed below even has translation cards available to use when traveling.

http://www.foodallergy.org/page/chef-card1

http://www.foodallergygourmet.com/dining%20and%20traveling/chefcard.pdf

http://archive.supermarketguru.com/page.cfm/7512

http://www.selectwisely.com/ (Translation cards)

http://www.allergyfreetable.com/chef-card.aspx

Wisconsin Epi-Pen Law

2011-11-26T17:02:00.001-08:00

School children in Wisconsin are now allowed to carry their Epi-Pens on their bodies! Luckily our school has always allowed my son to self-carry his life-saving medication, but this new law should help many families whose schools haven't been nearly as understanding!

http://www.wispolitics.com/index.iml?Article=254110

"A" is for Allergic!

2011-11-21T10:59:00.001-08:00

A Sesame Street segment on allergies!

Fall Carnival Photos

2011-10-31T19:17:00.000-07:00

Costume Contest - 1st place!

Costume Contest - Runner-Up!

Craft Table

Snow Cones

Monster Mouth Apples

2011-10-20T08:28:00.000-07:00

With Halloween almost here, why not surprise your little pumpkin with a spooky treat for an after school snack today!

Monster Mouth Apple Bites
Cut an apple into quarters. Cut a wedge on the skin side to resemble an open mouth. Cut mini marshmallows into little triangle teeth and attach to the apple with Sunbutter or soybutter. Use a fruit roll-up to make the tongue.

*The teeth can also be made with slivered almonds (if your child isn't allergic) or small slices of carrot stuck into the apple.

Fall Carnival

2011-10-11T08:11:00.000-07:00

FOOD ALLERGY ASSOCIATION OF WI PRESENTS
SPOOK-TACULAR FALL CARNIVAL

HOLY CROSS LUTHERAN SCHOOL (GYM)
2670 MILWAUKEE STREET
MADISON, WI 53704

DATE: OCTOBER 28, 2011

TIME: 6:00 – 8:00 P.M.

FOOD FREE FUN FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY!!

GAMES ~ COSTUME PARADE~ PRIZES

If you are interested in donating prizes or volunteering to run a game please email sheree@foodallergywis.org

Petition to Update FALCPA

2011-10-11T08:03:00.000-07:00

Sign this petition to update the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) of 2004 to include sesame and mustard seeds! FALCPA petition

More information:

We would like to request that the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004 (Title II of Public Law 108-282), also known as FALCPA, be extended to include labeling of items containing sesame seeds and mustard seeds.

Sesame seed, for example, is sometimes hidden in ingredients, under the name "tahini", "spices", or "natural flavoring". Individuals with food allergies need to know exactly what is contained within a food product, for the sake of their health and safety. Approximately 3 million Americans are affected by sesame allergies and accidental exposures can be fatal, for some.

Food allergies are on the rise, now affecting 1 in 13 children, in the U.S., according to the latest study sponsored by the Food Allergy Initiative.

EpiPen Study

2011-10-05T06:17:00.000-07:00

A study done by Air Force doctors has found that at least 95% of the medicine from an EpiPen is injected regardless of whether you hold the needle in for 1 or 10 seconds. This is very reassuring news for anyone who might panic and pull the needle out sooner then the recommended 10 seconds.

Study shows most get right dose from EpiPen

FAI - College Survey

2011-10-03T08:01:00.000-07:00

The Food Allergy Initiative is looking for undergrads to take a survey about living with food allergies at college. The survey will help gain insight on what issues are important to them, how they handle their food allergies, and what others can do to help. If you know any young college students, please send this link to them!

https://www.faiusa.org/collegesurvey2011

Deputy helps 4-year-old

2011-10-03T07:50:00.000-07:00

The parents of this 4-year-old were unaware that their child had a tree nut allergy, but luckily a deputy knew the signs of anaphylaxis and called for medical help immediately. A happy ending to what could have been a tragic story!

"Within 15 minutes of having taking the first bite of a brownie, that she didn't even like, we were in the back of an ambulance," said Marianne Glaser, Katie Ann's mother. "That's when her lips started swelling, and she broke out in the body hives, and (her nose) just started running and her eyes got red and (there was) facial swelling."

Upstate Deputy Credited For Helping 4-Year-Old

Epi-Inject

2011-09-26T07:53:00.000-07:00

Epi-Inject is a new concept for epinephrine autoinjectors which are not yet available on the market. I like that these not only are equipped with audio instructions but also include a count down timer to help you through the very stressfull situation of giving yourself or someone else an injection during an anaphylactic reaction.

Epi-Inject Article

"The Epi-Inject is a series of both personal and public emergency adrenaline injectors that provide an easy, non-jabbing method of treatment for even the most inexperienced to administer. The personal injector is a small 3-inch by 2-inch device that can be attached to any bag or backpack using the integrated carabiner. Users simply have to press the spring-loaded button and the adrenaline is administered immediately through the injector. The public injector is a larger device designed to be installed at restaurants, schools, parks or any other place where an allergic reaction may occur."

Something to Think About

2011-09-23T07:13:00.000-07:00

A couple of days ago I was browsing through a food allergy message board and read a story from a mom whose child had recently had an allergic reaction while at school. While the mom was happy with how the school staff responded and followed the child’s Action Plan (gave EpiPen, called 911, then called the mom) she realized that she had no contingency plan set up for what would then happen regarding her other children.

While we mostly focus our time, energy, and thought into setting up the plan of action for the school to take, do we tend to forget the other factors involved when one of our children has an allergic reaction?

For example…

· Who will pick up your other children at the school, bus stop, or home? Perhaps a neighbor, close friend, or family member? Make a list of people you can rely on to pick up your other children and go over the emergency plan with them.

· Do any of your other children have food allergies? Be sure these friends or neighbors also know what to do in case of an allergic reaction!

· Have all contact phone numbers entered into your cell phone so you aren’t frantically looking through a phone book or trying to remember someone’s number while riding in the ambulance or at the hospital when all you really want to be doing is giving all of your attention to your frightened child having the allergic reaction.

· Give a list of these contacts (with their permission) to the school in case they need to call someone to pick up your other children for you.

· Who will pick you up and drive you home from the ER if you rode in the ambulance with your child? Unfortunately sometimes we are not able to reach our spouses while they are at work.

Can you think of anything else we should be thinking about for an emergency plan? Please feel free to leave a comment!

Food Allergy Printables

2011-09-10T06:43:00.000-07:00

Head over to KidsCanHaveFun.com and check out the FREE food allergy labels and posters you can print out. You can print them on sticker paper or laminate them to use as stickers, classroom door posters, or school and lunch bag tags!

Flu Shot and Egg Allergy

2011-09-08T07:42:00.000-07:00

The CDC has released new guidelines regarding the influenza vaccine and those affected by egg allergy.

Prevention and Control of Influenza with Vaccines: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), 2011

First Kiss PSA from Anaphylaxis Canada

2011-09-04T18:39:00.000-07:00

A Public Service Announcement from Anaphylaxis Canada about the "first kiss" when you have food allergies. Definitely a must have conversation we should all be having with the pre-teen group!

Is Your School Allergy Ready?

2011-08-30T11:09:00.001-07:00

FAAN recently sent out to its members this wonderful online training course geared towards managing food allergies and anaphylaxis in the school setting. Check it out and then send the link on to your child's principal and teachers! http://allergyready.com/

Back to School Interactive Game

2011-08-30T11:01:00.000-07:00

Play this Back to School game from the AAAAI and help prepare your child with asthma and/or allergies for the school year!

http://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/just-for-kids/back-to-school-interactive-game.aspx

Intelliject

2011-08-03T12:41:00.000-07:00

Intelliject (previously called EpiCard) is getting closer to being available on the market. Hopefully this will mean that teenagers will be more willing to carry their life-saving medication with them at all times if it will easily fit into their pocket!

http://www.richmondbizsense.com/2011/08/02/a-shot-of-adrenaline-for-intelliject/

2011 Food Allergy Awareness Walk

2011-08-03T12:26:00.000-07:00

Join us for the 6th Annual Food Allergy Awareness Walk! The paved 1.5 mile walk raises funds for Food Allergy Awareness and Education Programs in Wisconsin. FAAW is a group of adults, teens, and parents of children living with Food Allergies. Allergen Friendly vendors will be there to showcase products. Also, a Silent Auction and kid's activities. Registration is free and walkers will receive goodie bags.

Information about pre-registration for individuals or teams can be found at http://www.foodallergywis.org/eventsmadison.html . Free event and donations are encouraged. You may also register the day of the event.

Date: Saturday, August 13, 2011
FREE Registration: 9:00am
Walk Start: 10:30am
Location: Warner Park, Madison, WI

Honorary Chair is John Stofflet, News Anchor of NBC-15

http://www.foodallergywis.org/
info@foodallergywis.org
608-575-9535

Medications at School

2011-07-29T09:24:00.000-07:00

Make sure your child's school knows the medication laws!

What is Breathe: It’s The Law?
A campaign to make sure students in EVERY state can carry and self-administer their life-saving asthma and anaphylaxis medications. AANMA spearheaded this campaign with support from volunteers and legislators in every state.

Why is it important?
Every school year students die because they were unable to get to their asthma or anaphylaxis medications on time. The medications were locked in a nurse’s cabinet or stowed away in a place too far to get to when the student needed them. Minutes count when asthma or anaphylaxis strikes. Students need to carry these medications on them, know when and how to use them — and then do it!

http://www.aanma.org/advocacy/meds-at-school/

EpiPen poster

2011-07-18T10:59:00.000-07:00

This photo and description kind of says it all in terms of how many parents feel when their children receive an invite to a birthday party.

What "birthday party" invitations look like in the minds of parents managing children with food allergies. Educate yourself on what 'trace amounts' mean so you can understand instead of thinking parents are being overly-protective.

July Meeting

2011-07-18T10:55:00.000-07:00

Please Join Us for Our July Meeting!!

When: July 19, 2011
Time: 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Where: Holy Cross Lutheran School - 2670 Milwaukee Street Madison
Speaker: Tess O'Brien-Heinzen
Topic: Covered topics will include 504 plans, Individual Health Plans (IHP), and preparing your child and school for upcoming year.

If you have any questions you would like answered at the meeting please forward them to sheree@foodallergywis.org

Article about Food Allergies and the Law written by Tess.
http://www.wisbar.org/am/template.cfm?section=wisconsin_lawyer&template=/cm/contentdisplay.cfm&contentid=92733&feed=wl_features

RSVP: Sheree' Godwin at sheree@foodallergywis.org

Go Mallards!

2011-06-08T13:10:00.000-07:00

Join FAAW at the "New Duck Pond"
for an Allergen Friendly Night of Fun!

Allergen Friendly Baseball Game
Madison Mallards at Warner Park, Madison, WI
with Post-game Fireworks

Saturday, June 18th
Time: 6:05

Invite your family, friends, and neighbors to come along!

Use code "Allergy"

Order Mallards Tickets

Children 5 and younger will gain admission to the ballpark for free -
ONLY IF THEY DO NOT NEED A SEAT

See flyer for ticket information and details.
Mallards Allergen Friendly Baseball Game

Cake Decorating Class Pictures and Video

2011-05-13T20:10:00.000-07:00

Last night I taught a cake decorating class for anyone interested in our group in honor of Food Allergy Awareness Week. The techniques I demonstrated ranged from how to get a smoothly frosted cake, how to correctly hold a decorating bag, how to use many different types of decorating tips, how to decorate a shaped cake with the star tip, and how to create a frozen buttercream transfer. I had lots more tips, tricks, and techniques that I would have liked to share, but just didn't have enough time to do it all. Be on the lookout for possibly several more cake decorating classes to be held over this summer with each class focusing on a different decorating style!

2011-05-10T17:58:00.001-07:00

FAAW Coloring Contest

Calling all Wisconsin Kids! Are you one of the 3 million U.S. children living with food allergies? Do you have a friend, classmate, or sibling who is? Whether you have a food allergy or not, this contest is for you! It's not too late to help the Food Allergy Association of Wisconsin (FAAW) promote education and awareness during national Food Allergy Awareness Week taking place May 8 to May 14. Join the millions of people all across the country who are participating in activities inspired by the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network and other organizations that share the same mission.

FAAW’s coloring contest is easy and fun. Simply draw a picture on the form provided of yourself and/or someone you know who is impacted by food allergies. It can be your best friend, your baseball team, your grandparents or anyone special! Knowing how to safely manage food allergies is always important, but remember, there are many other (more exciting) things to know and learn about too! Your artwork should show what other things are important in your life that help make you and your pals unique! Do you like horseback riding, swimming, or going to the park? Whatever it is, show us how you and your friends and family stay safe and have fun in spite of food allergies.

Win great prizes including movie passes, gift cards and more! All contest participants will be entered to win a random drawing of fun and exciting giveaway items.

Send your entries marked FAAW Color Contest to the Food Allergy Association of Wisconsin, 2722 Union Street, Madison, WI 53704 by MAY 15, 2011. Color scans can also be emailed to sheree@foodallergywis.org. Don’t forget to write your name, address and phone number on the back of your entry! We’ll call you if you are one of our lucky winners. (All winners will be posted on FAAW’s Facebook Fan page.)

EpiPen and Inhaler Carriers

2011-05-09T06:35:00.000-07:00

Here is an updated list of EpiPen and/or inhaler carriers I have found on the web. My son's favorite EpiPen carrier at the moment is the Spibelt. He is very active and we have found that this belt not only stays in place while he is running without bouncing around much, but it is also made of extremely stretchy material and can expand to hold 2 EpiPens or an EpiPen and inhaler plus a few Benadryl FastMelts. You can also order an extra "pocket" to attach to the Spibelt to hold an inhaler, cell phone, or other items.

EpiPen Carriers

@RiskRescue
http://www.atriskrescue.com/kit.html

Adorn handbag and messenger bag
http://www.adorndesigns.com/

Allergy Haven
http://www.allergyhaven.com/c/epi-pen

AllergyPack
http://www.allergypack.com/

Ana-Tote
http://www.allstarsales.ca/index.html?lang=en-us&target=d17.html

E-belt
http://www.ebelt.ca/

Epi-Access
http://www.epiaccess.ca/en/single.htm

Epinephrine Mate
https://www.foodallergy.org/

EpiPuppy
http://www.epipuppy.com/

FRIO wallets (keep medications cool)
http://www.coolerconcept.com/pages/prod2.htm

KozyEpi EpiPen and Puffer Pouches
http://www.kozyepi.com/

Medipouch
http://www.medipouch.com/

Omaxcare Leg Buddy & Asthma Pal
http://www.omaxcare.com/

Safety Sack
http://www.safetysack.com/

Peace of Mind Allergy Solutions (Custom made EpiPen carriers)
http://www.peaceofmindallergy.com/index.php

Take In Case
http://www.takeincase.com/

ActiveAide
http://www.activeaide.com/us/

Concealed EpiPen (Waist Pal, Waist Buddy, Leg Buddy)
http://www.concealedepipen.com/index.html

SpiBelt
http://www.spibelt.com/

Allergy Essentials
http://www.allergyessentialsusa.com/

TuffBaggs
http://www.tuffbaggs.com/product/epipen.html

Allergy Apparel (epipen & inhaler carriers)
http://www.allergyapparel.com/

Felted EpiPen Carrier/Case
http://www.etsy.com/listing/15695867/epipen-carriercase-felted-in-dark-pink

Autoinjector Duo Pouch w/ badge
http://www.bluebearaware.com/Black_Autoinjector_Pouch_p/s09-kz06.htm

Epi-Access Teacher Case
http://www.epiaccess.ca/en/teachers.htm

Icy Diamond Totes
http://www.icydiamondtotes.com/

Epi-Ready
http://www.epi-ready.com/

One Spot Allergy
http://www.onespotallergy.com/EpiPen-Holders-E-Belts-For-Food-Allergy-Anaphylaxis-s/20.htm

Protectube (waterproof case)
http://www.achooallergy.com/acc-protectube.asp

Waterproof bags
http://www.rei.com/product/752383

http://www.allstarsales.ca/index1.html

http://www.onespotallergy.com/Waterproof-EpiPen-Holder-p/osa0030.htm

Inhaler Carriers

PuffaPouch
http://www.puffapouch.com/

Respire
http://www.respirecases.com/index.aspx

Forget-Med-Not
http://forgetmednot.com/

Inhaler Wallet
http://www.lifesolutionsplus.com/inhaler-wallet-p-468.html

Inhaler Mate
http://www.inhalermate.com/index.php

The Doser
http://www.doser.com/index.html

Mitzy
http://www.mitzy.com.au/

Airpocket
http://www.amazon.com/Airpocket-Original-Quick-Draw-Inhaler/dp/B003LMB2NI

Med-Ready Puffer Tote
http://www.achooallergy.com/med-ready-tote.asp

Cake Decorating Class

2011-05-08T19:47:00.000-07:00

In honor of Food Allergy Awareness Week we will be offering a free cake decorating class for our members!

What: Cake Decorating Class

Where: Holy Cross Lutheran School
2670 Milwaukee st

When: May 12th at 6:30 PM

Are you interested in learning how to decorate amazing cakes for your loved ones with food allergies? Come join us for a fun hands-on class where you will learn tips and techniques to decorate cakes, cupcakes, and cookies just like the pros! Bring your own cake (made specifically for your allergen set) to decorate and take home to share with your family or just practice some frosting techniques on the sugar cookies we will provide.

If you are interested in attending or have any questions you may contact Vicki Horton at Vicki@FoodAllergyWis.org. Please RSVP!

*provided sugar cookies and frosting will be dairy, egg, peanut, and tree nut free.*

The Motherhood

2011-04-22T19:25:00.000-07:00

On April 5, 2011, parents came to TheMotherhood to talk about their anxieties and fears in dealing with their children’s food allergies, and – most importantly – to give each other support and recognize they weren’t alone.

On hand to lead the Talk were Lori Sandler, founder of Divvies Bakery and author of The Divvies Bakery Cookbook, and clinical psychologist Dr. Jules Spotts, Ph.D.

As participant Gina Rau said, “It's never easy, but there are so many ways to make it easier.” By sharing ideas and offering support, our conversation in TheMotherhood brought that sentiment to life!

Managing the Anxiety Often Associated with Food Allergies

Potting Soil May Contain Nuts

2011-04-12T15:11:00.000-07:00

Spring is finally here and many green-thumbs are looking forward to starting their gardens soon! If this sounds like you, beware that some potting soils contain peanuts and/or tree nuts, and in most cases the full list of ingredients are not included on the label. Check out this blog post abut an allergy mom who contacted a couple of companies that make potting soil to find out what they had to say... Food Allergy Families Blog

Everyday Asthma & Anaphylaxis in Times Square

2011-03-31T12:32:00.000-07:00

AAAAI News Release

2011-03-19T10:28:00.000-07:00

This article looks at a study which suggests that children who started out with moderate to severe eczema are less likely to outgrow their milk or egg allergy.

Children with More Severe Eczema Less Likely to Outgrow Milk, Egg Allergy

Milk Desensitization Article

2011-03-06T18:46:00.000-08:00

Here is an interesting article following the journey of a family whose son went through milk desensitization. On one hand, I'd love nothing more than for my own son to overcome his own very severe milk allergy, but at the same time I think I would be very hesitant to put him (and myself!) through such an emotional roller coaster with no guarantee of a happy ending. What are your thoughts?

34 Weeks to a Milk Miracle

Chipotle coupon

2011-02-25T16:51:00.000-08:00

Chipotle Mexican Grill happens to be one of our favorite restaurants (out of a select few!)that we feel we can eat safely at with our food allergic son. There are no eggs, peanuts, or tree nuts used in any of their food and the only items containing milk are the cheese and sour cream...which is easy enough to avoid.

For a limited time on Facebook, if you Like "America's Next Great Restaurant" (an upcoming TV show) and watch a 90 second preview of the show, you will be able to print a coupon for a FREE Burrito, Bowl, Taco, or Salad with the purchase of another!

New variety of Sunbutter

2011-02-25T16:33:00.000-08:00

Fargo, ND (Febr uary 9, 2011) – Red River Commodities introduces a new SunButter® product to their current line of peanut-free, tree-nut free, gluten-free sunflower butter spreads. SunButter Natural No-Stir Creamy is planned to be introduced nationally in February.

SunButter spreads are a delicious, healthy alternative to peanut butter and proven to be an excellent choice for people with peanut allergies. The distinctive robust sunflower flavor and creamy texture also makes SunButter ideal as a delicious change of pace for snacking and baking. It can be used in a wide range of recipes that call for peanut butter.

SunButter Natural No-Stir Creamy offers the same great flavor and superb nutritional
value as SunButter Natural but with the added convenience of No-Stir. Like other
natural nut or seed butters, current SunButter products separate, with the natural
sunflower oil rising to the top. This requires consumers to stir the product before use, making it less convenient and potentially messy for kids. SunButter has developed a new proprietary formulation and manufacturing process that delivers a rich, creamy texture without having to stir. "The New No-Stir product has the same great taste as Natural Creamy, but is much easier to use. My kids can use it without my help and baking with SunButter is simpler than ever," states Donna Ranner, a devoted SunButter consumer for the past 5 years.

Health conscious consumers have also been tapping into the benefits of this protein packed sunflower seed spread. One serving offers seven grams of protein, and SunButter has 1/3 less saturated fat, twice the fiber and more iron than the typical peanut butter. Sunflower seeds are also packed with vitamin E and more nutrients than any other nuts or seeds.

With the prevalence of peanut allergies and healthy eating initiatives on the rise,
SunButter expects sales and distribution to continue to increase in 2011. When asked to comment on peanut allergies and the new No-Stir product, Vice President of Marketing, Dan Hofland states, “We are not only seeing a rise in the incidence of peanut allergies, but also in the awareness of both parents and schools about the need to find effective solutions. I have long encouraged parents of children with peanut allergies to substitute SunButter for peanut butter. This allows their kids enjoy the same types of sandwiches, snacks and treats as other kids with a taste they love and nutrition thats superior to peanut butter. I’m particularly excited about the new No-Stir product, because it eliminates the barrier that some parents and kids have had using SunButter.”

In addition to simply replacing peanut butter in snacks and sandwiches, SunButter has a wide range of recipes and other uses. To get delicious and easy recipes and learn more about SunButter, go to www.SunButter.com.

Red River Commodities is a Fargo, ND based company that provides peanut-free,
gluten-free and tree-nut free products to consumers. In 2003, Red River Commodities
developed a peanut-free and tree-nut free substitute for peanut butter, which became
known as SunButter. To learn more about SunButter, visit www.SunButter.com or call
1-800-437-5539.

2011-02-10T06:23:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day with Food Allergies

Many people think Valentine's day and automatically think chocolate, candy, cards, oh yea and LOVE.
Well for the food allergic person you think is there a safe candy or chocolate I can give my child, or some may think I need to find a safe treat for my child's class, or friend with food allergies.

Well there are some great companies that offer allergen free treats:

Vermont Nut Free Chocolate, Gourmet chocolates guaranteed safe for
those with any nut or peanut allergy
Home Free Treats, have allergen free cookies
Sweet delight nut free Chocolate , makes nut free chocolates, lollipops, and other goodies

Peanut Free Planet , is a online retailer with a wide variety of treats perfect for Valentine's Day.
Divvies makes cupcakes, and other goodies that are allergen free

Food Allergy Initiative

2011-02-08T16:10:00.000-08:00

Food Allergy Initiative Click on link to see video

Awareness starts with you.

2011-02-08T14:52:00.000-08:00

UW ATHLETICS, FAAW PARTNERING ON ALLERGY FRIENDLY EVENTS

For many sports fans, watching a sporting event and eating peanuts 
go hand in hand. But for children with food allergies, watching a 
game in close proximity to nuts can turn a fun event into a 
difficult and even life threatening experience.

To help create a safe and fun environment for those dealing with 
food allergies, the Food Allergy Association of Wisconsin (FAAW) 
has partnered with the UW Athletic Department to create two 
“Allergy Friendly” Badger games at the Kohl Center this winter.

The events mark the second year of the partnership. Madison. 
Modeled after similar events held by the Minnesota Twins and other 
professional sports franchises, UW Athletics will make a number of 
special accommodations, including restricting the sales of peanuts 
and concessions items containing nuts, and taking special cleaning 
measures.

Both the women's basketball game That was in December, and the
women's hockey game vs. North Dakota at 2 p.m. on Sunday, February, 13
have both been designated as "Allergy Friendly”.

During the two events, all concession stands at the Kohl Center 
will remove food items that could induce an allergic reaction 
including: shelled and un-shelled peanuts, candy with nuts, caramel 
corn with nuts and ice cream with nut products.

Patrons with food allergy concerns can also view an ingredient list 
for the concession stands' most popular food items. In addition, 
certain sections will receive an elevated level of cleaning to 
ensure a safer environment for affected patrons to sit in.

FAAW advocates on behalf of Madison and Dane County families with 
food allergies, holding events and coordinating educational 
efforts. Those affected by food allergies can suffer life-
threatening reactions if they accidentally ingest, or come in 
contact with, certain foods.

The group is especially grateful to UW Athletics for this fan-
friendly stance, says Sheree' Godwin, president of the group.

“Nut allergies are a serious and life-threatening concern,” says 
Sheree’ Godwin. “The hundreds of families in our organization 
continue to be thankful to UW Athletics for their understanding and 
support.”

Despite these accommodations, fans with food allergies are still 
encouraged to use normal precautions, as these designated games 
cannot be guaranteed to be 100 percent allergy free.

Families with food allergies are being offered a special ticket 
offer for each game. For this special event, adult ticket prices 
will be priced at [$1 and $1 for both youth/senior tickets.]  This 
offer is only available online by visiting uwbadgers.com, clicking 
on the Badger Ticket Center and entering promotional code ALLERGY. 
This offer is not available on game day.

For More information about FAAW Visit:
http://www.foodallergywis.org/

Managing Food Allergies in the School Setting

2011-02-02T11:18:00.000-08:00

Managing Food Allergies in the School Setting is a 20-minute educational video created by FAAN, in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Division of Adolescent and School Health, the National Association of School Nurses, and the National School Boards Association. In the video, children, parents, school nurses, school principals, and others offer guidance to help schools better manage this emerging school health issue.

A Day In The Life - Video

2011-01-16T10:47:00.000-08:00

This video was created by a group of New Zealand mothers for Allergy Awareness Week last year.

Rudi's coupon

2011-01-10T10:18:00.000-08:00

Go to http://www.rudisglutenfree.com/spread-the-bread-coupon/ to print a $1.oo off coupon for any Rudi's gluten-free bread! (Also happens to be dairy-free!)

Allergen Friendly UW Hockey Game

2011-01-09T16:21:00.000-08:00

Let's show the UW we appreciate the effort they are going to for us living with food allergies. This is a great way to raise awareness. Let's fill the stands with families from our group. Invite your friends, family and neighbors to come with you and celebrate food allergies!

Allergy Friendly Game at the Kohl Center, Madison, WI

Sun. Feb. 13, 2011 - Women's Hockey vs. North Dakota

Start Time - 2:00pm

Fans that take advantage of this promotion may sit in the designated allergen friendly general admission section and enjoy an allergen friendly concession stand on game day.

Click on the link for $1.00 tickets.

Use promotion code "Allergy"

Go to http://www.foodallergywis.org/ for more details.

Chicago teen dies from allergic reaction

2010-12-20T18:30:00.000-08:00

A 13-year-old from Chicago died Friday after eating something that must have contained her allergen at a school Christmas party. My heart goes out to this family! Please, let's all be extra vigilant about keeping our allergic children safe during the holiday celebrations!

Full article here:
http://abclocal.go.com/wls/story?section=news%2Flocal&id=7854968

Milk Allergy Alert

2010-12-14T10:23:00.000-08:00

Tofutti Brands Inc. has announced a precautionary recall of 25 pallets of its 4-Pack YOURS TRULY frozen dessert cones (UPC 0-20188-01500-9) due to possible trace level milk contamination reported for one lot of product shipped which was produced in August of 2010.

YOURS TRULY CONES are labeled as Milk Free and persons who have an allergy or severe sensitivity or intolerance to Milk products run the risk of serious or life-threatening injury if they consume products with milk ingredients. Tofutti Brands uses stringent quality controls to prevent milk contamination of its products and sells tens of millions of ice cream novelty products each year.

The 25 pallets from the suspect lot are being recalled. The bulk of these 25 pallets were sold along the east coast and the Midwest. None of the suspected lot was sold to any west coast distributors or stores.

The product in the above 25 pallets is identified by the labeled Manufacturing facility code 18-497 which will appear printed on one of the two end flaps of the box of the YOURS TRULY CONES along with a production code of either 2330 or 2350, which will follow right after the plant code.

Consumers who may have purchased YOURS TRULY CONES bearing these codes are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. This recall does not involve any of the Company’s other frozen dessert products. Consumers with questions may contact the Company at 908-272-2400, Monday-Friday, from 9:00AM-5:00PM EST, or email us at info@tofutti.com.

http://webnewsvoice.com/tofutti-brands-recalls-frozen-dessert-cones/222929/

Allergy Holiday Video

2010-12-09T05:37:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays!

Product Review

2010-12-08T07:57:00.000-08:00

Lundberg Rice!

I recently received a sample of Lundberg Rice from a food allergy resource fair and was excited to try it at home. My kids can eat rice and they like rice. So this was perfect for my family.

Our sample was for the Short Grain Brown rice. We have a rice cooker so I made the rice according to my rice cooker directions (equal water to rice ratio) and hit the button. In about 15 minutes we had a nice side dish to our chicken. I normally buy white rice so this was a bit a new taste for my family the kids and I LOVED IT. The rice had a nice firm texture with a "nutty" taste. Which was odd for our nut free home to say it has a nutty taste.

I have found a new rice that we will definatly be purchasing again. They have 10 varieties in all. California Brown Basmati

California White Jasmine

California Brown Jasmine

Brown Sweet Rice

California Sushi Rice

California White Basmati

Golden Rose Brown

Long Grain Brown

Long GRain White

Short Grain Brown

Check out www.lundberg.com for more products, receipes, and coupons.

2010-12-08T07:38:00.000-08:00

Greetings!

It is not too late to send delicious baked from scratch treats as holiday gifts to friends and family! Here is a sweet deal from Apples Bakery or Apple's Gluten Free Kitchen...

FREE SHIPPING
on orders $50 and over

Just use coupon code FREESHIP50 when you place your order on
www.applesbakery.com

Hurry, this offer is only valid until December 14, 2010.

Thank you and happy holidays from your friends at Apple's Bakery and Apple's Gluten Free Kitchen.

Eat Freely with Cybele - December Recipe

2010-12-03T07:50:00.001-08:00

A recipe for yummy allergy-friendly fudge just in time for the holidays!

MTV wants to hear from you!

2010-12-02T16:55:00.000-08:00

MTVs DOCUMENTARY SERIES CASTING
TRUE LIFE: I'M ALLERGIC TO EVERYTHING

Are you constantly wiping your eyes, blowing your nose and using your inhaler to no avail? Do you have to carefully monitor what you eat to make sure you don't have a severe allergic reaction, breakout in hives or stop breathing? Is doing everyday things like going out to eat or shopping in the mall a dangerous or hazardous experience? Do you suffer from multiple allergies that affect your life on a daily basis or one extreme allergy that would be considered life-threatening? If this sounds like you, Gigantic! Productions wants to hear your story.

If you appear to be between the ages of 15 and 22, please email casting@gigantic.tv with details. Please include your name, location, phone number, and photograph if possible.

Eat Freely with Cybele - November Video

2010-11-10T16:40:00.000-08:00

This month's featured recipe on http://www.eatfreelyshow.com/ is Allergy-Friendly Old Fashioned Mac n' Cheese.

Why you should carry two doses of epinephrine

2010-11-08T08:59:00.000-08:00

This study looks at the percentage of children with food-induced anaphlyaxis who required more than one dose of epinephrine:

http://www.jpeds.com/article/PIIS0022347610007791/fulltext

Bottom line...Always carry two doses of epinephrine where ever you go. It might just save your child's life!

Mom to blame for kid's peanut allergy?

2010-11-05T20:51:00.000-07:00

Dr. Scott Sicherer explains why pregnancy may play a role in kids' nut allergies.

So Delicious coupons

2010-10-27T07:10:00.000-07:00

Visit http://www.turtlemountain.com/rewards/rewards.html for money saving coupons on dairy-free products including anything from Coconut Milk or Soy Milk ice cream and frozen novelties to beverages, coffee creamer, or yogurt. And while you're there, be sure to fill out the short survey and you will automatically be entered into a monthly drawing where you could win a variety of prizes including t-shirts, a free product, or even a year's supply of dairy-free ice cream!

Fall Carnival

2010-10-19T13:43:00.000-07:00

Please join us for our annual Allergen Friendly Fall Carnival!

Date: October 29, 2010

Time: 6:00-8:00 pm

Location: Holy Cross Lutheran School (Gym)
2670 Milwaukee Street, Madison

We will have carnival games for the kids to win small prizes, face painting, crafts, costume contest and more!

Eat Freely Video

2010-10-05T09:20:00.000-07:00

Each month, http://www.eatfreelyshow.com/ will feature a new video with Cybele Pascal demonstrating an allergy-friendly recipe, techniques, and tips.

This month's featured recipe is Allergy-Friendly Pancakes...

The Balancing Act - Video

2010-09-28T14:19:00.000-07:00

â€¢â€¢â€¢â€¢â€¢>O2MediaInc.com TheBalancingAct.com - The Morning Women's Television Show on Lifetime TV - Food Allergy Awareness for Parents

Click above to watch this very touching video from The Balancing Act on Lifetime TV where the host speaks with Brian Hom who lost his son in 2008 due to a peanut allergy.

Intelliject

2010-09-24T14:40:00.000-07:00

Millions of people at risk for severe allergic reactions to certain foods and bee stings rely on pen-sized syringes that contain a life-saving dose of the drug epinephrine to administer in an emergency.

As lifelong allergy sufferers, twin brothers Eric S. Edwards and Evan T. Edwards,co-founders of the Richmond-based specialty pharmaceutical firm Intelliject Inc., keep their epinephrine auto-injectors close by.

As grateful as the brothers are to have the existing injector technology available, from their own experiences they've concluded there has to be a better injector system.

The 29-year-old brothers and their management team have built Intelliject around the goal of creating a more intuitive, compact and safer emergency epinephrine delivery system.

Their result -- a credit card-sized device that "talks" users through administering epinephrine.

Read full article here...
http://www2.newsadvance.com/business/2010/jan/06/brothers_of_invention-ar-216416/

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Food Allergy Resource Fair

2010-09-11T13:52:00.001-07:00

The Food Allergy Support Group of Minnesota is hosting a Food Allergy Resource Fair on Saturday, September 25, 2010. The Resource Fair will feature allergy-friendly food and product companies from around the United States. Many will provide food samples, coupons and detailed information on product safety and benefits.

Allergists will be available at the “Ask the Doctor” booth to answer questions. This event is FREE, and open to the public!

In addition, children can explore sea creatures with a crew from Underwater Adventures from the Mall of America.

For more information, visit www.foodallergysupportmn.org .

How Asthma Makes Me Feel - Video

2010-09-05T13:57:00.000-07:00

Allergy & Asthma Network Mothers of Asthmatics (AANMA) asked children to tell us—in pictures and in their own words—how they felt during an asthma attack, and how they felt when they could breathe again. What they told us was enlightening—and heart-rending.

We collected their drawings and stories to share in this video. Read more about this project here:
http://www.aanma.org/publication/special-pubs/how-asthma-makes-me-feel/

Food Allergy Walk Pictures

2010-09-03T11:46:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all who came out to help raise awareness for food allergies this year!

Free Safety Strategy Videos

2010-08-27T11:28:00.000-07:00

Our group recently received this email...

My teenage daughter is allergic to peanuts and tree-nuts, so I know what it's like to be a parent who feels overwhelmed and scared. I share your passion for helping families with food allergies.

I am on a heartfelt mission to help parents feel more confident and less anxious and to make it easier to take more action to better protect their children.

I was wondering if your members would be interested in getting free videos teaching them helpful strategies and practical tips on managing their children’s food allergies and avoiding allergic reactions? If so, I’d love to give you access to 5 free videos containing about 45 minutes of information-packed assistance.

I’m doing this to help celebrate the release of my Protect Your Child From Life-Threatening Allergies system, and to help parents everywhere do more to keep their children safe.

You can tell your members to go to... www.mychildhasafoodallergy.com/tg/ingredients.html When they enter their email address into this page they'll get 5 FREE Safety Strategy Videos, about 8-10 minutes each, one per day for five days. There's absolutely zero obligation to buy anything.

It's truly about 45 minutes of FREE practical tips and helpful strategies that parents can apply when eating out, planning for back to school, even at extra-curricular activities, when reading ingredient labels, and more!

If after watching some of my videos, anyone from your group is interested in purchasing the Protect Your Child From Life-Threatening Food Allergies system, I'd love to give you an exciting Introductory Offer For Support Group Discount if you order as a group before August 31st. I am delighted to donate $15 from every purchase to FAAN for all that they have done for advancing food allergy awareness, research and legislation, and for helping my family when my daughter was first diagnosed, almost 14 years ago.

Again, I hope you and your whole group will benefit from the free helpful videos which are my gift to you, without anyone needing to buy anything! I sincerely hope that everyone will learn something to help keep their food-allergic child(ren) safe.

Thanks for your time.

Warm regards,
Jane Meagher

Creator, "Protect Your Child From Life-Threatening Food Allergies"
President, Food Allergy Success Strategies
Office: 732-761-8134x1
Email: jane@mychildhasafoodallergy.com
website for free video signup: www.mychildhasafoodallergy.com/tg/school.html
website for informaton on our system: www.mychildhasafoodallergy.com/more
facebook: My Child Has A Food Allergy fan page

Allergen-Free School Supplies

2010-08-19T20:30:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for allergy safe craft materials and school supplies? Discount School Supply knows how challenging it is to find supplies for those with sensitivities so they have grouped their products into categories specifically designed for those with common allergens.

http://www.discountschoolsupply.com/community/landing.aspx?campaignid=1030

Food Allergy Action Plan

2010-08-13T19:23:00.000-07:00

FAAN has released a revised food allergy action plan to be completed by your child's doctor. It has separate sections for "severe symptoms" vs. "mild symptoms".

http://www.foodallergy.org/files/FAAP.pdf

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MedicAlert EMIR

2010-08-10T17:15:00.000-07:00

Does your food allergic child have a MedicAlert bracelet? If so, how long has it been since you last updated your child's Emergency Medical Information Record (EMIR)? Have any medications changed? How about dosages and/or frequencies? What about emergency and physician contacts? Any newly developed food, drug, or other allergies? All of this valuable information is stored in your EMIR and can help save your child's life in an emergency. With the new school year fast approaching, now would be a good time to update your child's EMIR because in an anaphylactic emergency every second counts!

www.medicalert.org

2010 Food Allergy Awareness Walk

2010-08-06T10:12:00.000-07:00

Hello Members,

Our principal fund raiser for the year is fast approaching. On August 28, 2010, our Food Allergy Awareness Walk will be held at Warner Park in Madison. The goal of the walk is to further the mission of FAAW to raise the awareness of food allergies and to educate about the safe caring of people with food allergies. The walk achieves this goal in two ways. First, the publicity of the event raises awareness and provides information to attendees. Second, the event raises money critical to support the day-to-day efforts to further FAAW’s mission. Our goal this year is to raise $6,000.00 from individual contributions.

The Events page within the Madison of FAAW’s website (www.foodallergywis.org/eventsmadison.html) has information about the Walk. Included is a link to our fundraising page at FirstGiving (www.firstgiving.com/foodallergywis). FirstGiving is an organization that specifically helps nonprofits raise contributions through events. The FirstGiving site helps you set up a fundraising page or make a contribution to the Walk. FirstGiving also provides helpful hints to successfully raise contributions from families and friends.

As a nonprofit organization, FAAW operates solely off of fundraising and donations. Paying it forward allows us to offer most of our programs free of charge! And, as an all-volunteer organization, you can be assured your entire donation is used for the programs promised to forward our mission.

YOU make a difference! We appreciate all you do to partner with FAAW in working toward our mission.

Epinephrine Key

2010-08-04T16:59:00.000-07:00

A new epinephrine auto-injector is being developed called the Epinephrine Key.

http://www.tcbmedicaldevices.com/index.html (view a picture of the device here)

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/193773.php

A small epinephrine auto-injector that easily fits in the palm of one's hand, the Epinephrine Key attaches to any keychain. Just like regular keys, the Epinephrine Key is completely portable and always nearby, making it immediately available for emergency administration of epinephrine in the event of a severe allergic reaction.

Bisquick - Gluten Free!

2010-07-29T13:29:00.000-07:00

Keep an eye out in your local grocery store for the new Gluten Free Bisquick coming out summer 2010!

The ingredients for the Gluten-Free Bisquick are:

Rice Flour, Sugar, Leavening (baking soda, sodium aluminum phosphate, monocalcium phosphate), Modified Potato Starch, Salt, Xanthan Gum

Also be sure to check out the Betty Crocker website for lots of gluten-free recipes!
http://www.bettycrocker.com/products/bisquick/glutenfree.aspx

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EpiPen and Asthma Inhaler Carriers

2010-07-23T11:49:00.000-07:00

August is almost here and that means only about a month is left before the kiddos head back to school again. Before long it will be time to renew all of your child’s medications to be left at school including inhalers, Benadryl, and of course EpiPens! Does your child self carry their EpiPen while at school? My son started self-carrying both his EpiPen and his inhaler when he started second grade. Both he and I felt much more at ease knowing that his medication was on his body at all times. He wears one EpiPen in a MediPouch around his waist while the second EpiPen is kept in the nurses office. His inhaler is either worn in a Med Ready Tote or in a sealable pocket if he is wearing cargo-style shorts/jeans. Of course by no means is self-carrying the EpiPen the same thing as self-administering. Although now at age 10½ I do believe my son could self-administer the EpiPen if need be, adults should always be trained in what signs/symptoms to watch for and how to administer the medication. Having a child know how to administer an EpiPen is one thing, but being able to do it in the face of anaphylaxis is an entirely different matter!

If you are considering letting your child self-carry, you may be wondering what type of carrier to purchase. I’ve been keeping a running list of all EpiPen and asthma inhaler carriers as I find them on the web. I have not, however, checked to see if all of these carriers will be able to hold the newly designed EpiPens as they are slightly larger, so you will need to check into that yourself before placing an order. I hope this list will be helpful to you and your food allergic child as you gear up for the start of another school year!

EpiPen Carriers

@RiskRescue
http://www.atriskrescue.com/kit.html

Adorn handbag and messenger bag
http://www.adorndesigns.com/

Allergy Haven
http://www.allergyhaven.com/c/epi-pen

AllergyKids
http://www.allergykids.com/product.php?proid=11&sub_catid=

AllergyPack
http://www.allergypack.com/

Ana-Tote
http://www.allstarsales.ca/index.html?lang=en-us&target=d17.html

E-belt
http://www.ebelt.ca/products.asp

Epi-Access
http://www.epiaccess.ca/en/single.htm

Epinephrine Mate
https://www.foodallergy.org/shoppingcart/shopwelcome.shtml

EpiPuppy
http://www.epipuppy.com/

FRIO wallets (keep medications cool)
http://www.coolerconcept.com/pages/prod2.htm

KozyEpi EpiPen and Puffer Pouches
http://www.kozyepi.com/index.htm

Medipouch
http://www.medipouch.com/

Omaxcare Leg Buddy & Asthma Pal
http://www.omaxcare.com/

Safety Sack
http://www.safetysack.com/

American Adventure Products
http://www.americanadventureproducts.com/old-backup/epipen.html

Peace of Mind Allergy Solutions (Custom made EpiPen carriers)
http://www.peaceofmindallergy.com/index.php

Take In Case
http://www.takeincase.com/

ActiveAide
http://www.activeaide.com/us/

Protectube (waterproof case)
http://www.achooallergy.com/acc-protectube.asp

Concealed EpiPen (Waist Pal, Waist Buddy, Leg Buddy)
http://www.concealedepipen.com/index.html

Waterproof bags
http://www.rei.com/product/752383

http://www.aquapac.net/usstore/aquapac-us-store-1-0.html

http://www.allstarsales.ca/index1.html

Inhaler Carriers

Med Ready Tote
http://www.medreadytote.com/buy.shtml

PuffaPouch
http://www.puffapouch.com/

Asthma Pod
http://www.asthmapods.com/

Respire
http://www.respirecases.com/index.aspx

Forget-Med-Not
http://forgetmednot.com/

Inhaler Wallet
http://www.lifesolutionsplus.com/inhaler-wallet-p-468.html

Belt or Pocket Sized Inhaler Case
http://www.redflarekits.com/pc/10030/pac/Belt+or+Pocket+Sized+Inhaler+Case

The Azmate
http://www.theazmate.com/index.html

Glow Cap
http://www.glowcap.co.uk/

Inhaler Mate
http://www.inhalermate.com/index.php

The Doser
http://www.doser.com/index.html

Mitzy
http://www.mitzy.com.au/

New pottery line: Allergy Awareness

2010-06-29T21:05:00.000-07:00

A member of our food allergy support group has designed a great line of allergy aware pottery pieces. I think this is a great way to bring out awareness as well as let others see your allergen free lifestyle. They are so cool take a look for yourself.

Here is a link to the pieces, with more to come:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/jennyblasenpottery?section_id=7102511

Jenny Blasen Pottery
www.jennyblasenpottery.com

U.S. Department of Transportation proposes peanut ban on airlines

2010-06-03T11:17:00.000-07:00

http://www.kansascity.com/2010/06/02/1988891/rules-aim-for-better-air-travel.html

The U.S. Department of Transportation on Wednesday proposed new rules designed to protect air passengers. One would restrict serving peanuts. The restriction could work in one of three ways:

•Ban the serving of all peanut products on domestic flights and international flights to and from the United States

•Ban the serving of all peanut products on flights where a passenger with peanut allergy requests a peanut-free flight in advance

•Require a peanut-free buffer zone in the immediate area of the passenger with a documented severe allergy to peanuts if a peanut-free flight is requested

The public will have 60 days to comment. Go to www.regulations.gov (Docket No. DOT-OST-2010-0140) and let your voice be heard!

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Children's Benadryl, Zyrtec, Tylenol and Motrin RECALLED

2010-05-06T09:03:00.000-07:00

McNeil Consumer Healthcare Announces Voluntary Recall of Certain OTC Infants’ and Children’s Products

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - April 30, 2010 – Fort Washington, PA. McNeil Consumer Healthcare, Division of McNEIL-PPC, Inc., in consultation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is voluntarily recalling all lots that have not yet expired of certain over-the-counter (OTC) Children’s and Infants’ liquid products manufactured in the United States and distributed in the United States, Canada, Dominican Republic, Dubai (UAE), Fiji, Guam, Guatemala, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Panama, Trinidad & Tobago, and Kuwait. (SEE RECALLED PRODUCT LIST BELOW).

McNeil Consumer Healthcare is initiating this voluntary recall because some of these products may not meet required quality standards. This recall is not being undertaken on the basis of adverse medical events. However, as a precautionary measure, parents and caregivers should not administer these products to their children. Some of the products included in the recall may contain a higher concentration of active ingredient than is specified; others may contain inactive ingredients that may not meet internal testing requirements; and others may contain tiny particles. While the potential for serious medical events is remote, the company advises consumers who have purchased these recalled products to discontinue use.

The company is conducting a comprehensive quality assessment across its manufacturing operations and has identified corrective actions that will be implemented before new manufacturing is initiated at the plant where the recalled products were made.
Consumers can contact the company at 1-888-222-6036 and also at www.mcneilproductrecall.com1. Parents and caregivers who are not sure about alternative pediatric health treatment options should talk to their doctor or pharmacist and are reminded to never give drug products to infants and children that are not intended for those age groups as this could result in serious harm

For additional information, including affected NDC numbers, consumers should visit our website www.mcneilproductrecall.com or call 1-888-222-6036 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Time, and Saturday-Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time). Any adverse reactions may also be reported to the FDA’s MedWatch Program by fax at 1-800-FDA-0178, by mail at MedWatch, FDA, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20852-9787, or on the MedWatch website at www.fda.gov/medwatch2.|

McNeil Consumer Healthcare, Division of McNeil-PPC, Inc. markets a broad range of well-known OTC products.

PRODUCTS NDC Number

TYLENOL® INFANTS’ DROPS:

CONCENTRATED TYLENOL® INFANTS’ DROPS 1 OZ. GRAPE FLAVOR 50580-144-01

CONCENTRATED TYLENOL® INFANTS’ DROPS 0.5 OZ. GRAPE FLAVOR* 50580-144-15

CONCENTRATED TYLENOL® INFANTS’ DROPS 1 OZ. CHERRY DYE FREE 50580-167-01

CONCENTRATED TYLENOL® INFANTS’ DROPS 0.5 OZ. CHERRY FLAVOR 50580-143-15

CONCENTRATED TYLENOL® INFANTS’ DROPS 1 OZ. CHERRY FLAVOR 50580-143-30

CONCENTRATED TYLENOL® INFANTS’ DROPS 0.5 OZ. GRAPE - HOSPITAL 50580-144-18

CONCENTRATED TYLENOL® INFANTS’ DROPS 0.25 OZ. GRAPE - SAMPLE 50580-144-40

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® SUSPENSIONS:

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® SUSPENSION 2 OZ. CHERRY BLAST FLAVOR 50580-123-02

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. CHERRY BLAST FLAVOR 50580-123-04

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® DYE-FREE SUSPENSION 4 OZ. CHERRY FLAVOR 50580-166-04

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. GRAPE SPLASH 50580-296-04

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. BUBBLEGUM FLAVOR 50580-407-04

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. VERY BERRY STRAWBERRY FLAVOR 50580-493-04

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® SUSPENSION 1 OZ. CHERRY BLAST FLAVOR – SAMPLE 50580-123-01

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. CHERRY BLAST FLAVOR – HOSPITAL 50580-123-03

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSIONS:

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COUGH & SORE THROAT CHERRY FLAVOR 50580-247-04

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COUGH & RUNNY NOSE CHERRY FLAVOR 50580-249-04

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS DYE-FREE SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COLD & STUFFY NOSE GRAPE FLAVOR 50580-253-04

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS DYE-FREE SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COLD & COUGH GRAPE FLAVOR 50580-254-04

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS DYE-FREE SUSPENSION 4 OZ. MULTI-SYMPTOM COLD GRAPE FLAVOR 50580-255-04

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. FLU BUBBLEGUM FLAVOR 50580-386-04

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COLD GRAPE FLAVOR 50580-387-04

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COLD & ALLERGY BUBBLEGUM FLAVOR 50580-390-04

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. MULTI-SYMPTOM COLD GRAPE FLAVOR 50580-391-04

MOTRIN® INFANTS’ DROPS:

CONCENTRATED MOTRIN® INFANTS’ DROPS 1 OZ. BERRY DYE FREE 50580-198-01

CONCENTRATED MOTRIN® INFANTS’ DROPS 0.5 OZ. BERRY DYE FREE 50580-198-15

CONCENTRATED MOTRIN® INFANTS’ DROPS 0.5 OZ. BERRY FLAVOR* 50580-100-15

CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSIONS:

CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. BERRY DYE FREE 50580-184-04

CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 2 OZ. BERRY FLAVOR 50580-601-02

CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. BERRY FLAVOR 50580-601-04

CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. TROPICAL PUNCH FLAVOR 50580-215-04

CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. GRAPE FLAVOR 50580-603-04

CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. BUBBLEGUM FLAVOR 50580-604-04

CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 1 OZ. GRAPE SAMPLE 50580-603-01

CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 1 OZ. BUBBLEGUM SAMPLE 50580-604-01

CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 1 OZ. BERRY SAMPLE 50580-601-01

CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. BERRY HOSPITAL 50580-601-50

CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COLD BERRY FLAVOR 50580-902-04

CHILDREN’S ZYRTEC® LIQUIDS IN BOTTLES:

CHILDREN’S ZYRTEC® 4 OZ. BUBBLEGUM SYRUP 50580-721-04

CHILDREN’S ZYRTEC® DYE FREE 4 OZ. GRAPE SYRUP 50580-730-04

CHILDREN’S ZYRTEC® SUGAR-FREE DYE-FREE 0.5 OZ. GRAPE 50580-730-15

CHILDREN’S ZYRTEC® SUGAR-FREE DYE-FREE 0.5 OZ. BUBBLEGUM 50580-721-15

CHILDREN’S ZYRTEC® SUGAR-FREE DYE-FREE 2 X 4 OZ. BUBBLEGUM LIQUID 50580-721-08

CHILDREN'S BENADRYL® ALLERGY LIQUIDS IN BOTTLES:

CHILDREN'S BENADRYL® ALLERGY 4 OZ. BUBBLEGUM FLAVORED LIQUID 50580-535-04

* CONCENTRATED TYLENOL® INFANTS’ DROPS 0.5 OZ. GRAPE FLAVOR is also included in JOHNSON'S ® Baby Relief Kit.

*CONCENTRATED MOTRIN® INFANTS’ DROPS 0.5 OZ. BERRY FLAVOR is also included in JOHNSON'S ® Baby Relief Kit

2010-04-30T21:05:00.000-07:00

Allergic Living's 5th Anniversary Contest

2010-04-12T11:39:00.000-07:00

Test your allergy knowledge by taking the Allergic Living Quiz. You could win one of 4 copies of Cybele Pascal's The Allergen-Free Baker's Handbook!
**Contest closes Friday, May 7, 2010**

http://www.allergicliving.com/contest/

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2010-04-12T09:26:00.000-07:00

The federal government is putting the finishing touches on an important document: "Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Food Allergy"

Here's what it does:

Makes recommendations to healthcare providers on how to diagnose, manage and treat food allergy
Identifies gaps in the current science to be addressed through future research
Offers solutions to controversies in patient management practices

Do you share FAI's thoughts?

Are you glad these guidelines are coming out?

Is there something else you wish were covered?

Make a public comment -- it's easy:

1. View the guidelines

2. Click on the public comment form

3. Follow the easy instructions to submit your comment

We, the public, are invited and encouraged to comment on these draft guidelines.

Here's what FAI thinks:

We are appreciative and grateful that the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Disease (NIAID) is issuing these guidelines and commend the agency for creating comprehensive guidelines that incorporate the input of the leaders in the field.

As NIAID has noted, this process has helped shine a spotlight on gaps in the science that can be addressed through research. Now that they have developed guidelines to help effectively manage food allergies, policymakers should focus on expanding research and closing those gaps that will eventually lead to a cure.

The public comment period closes on May 6th -- act now!

Then tell your elected officials they can do their part, too.

FAIusa.org | info@faiusa.org | Privacy Policy

Hippity, Hoppity, Easter's on its way!

2010-03-12T16:03:00.000-08:00

If the Easter Bunny is looking for ideas about what treats would be safe to bring your food allergic child this Easter, tell him (or her) to hop on over to the Premium Chocolatiers website! This company specializes in milk-free, egg-free, nut-free, and gluten-free gourmet chocolates. These delicious goodies are hand crafted using a signature blend of roasted cocoa beans along with the finest ingredients!

http://www.premiumchocolatiers.com/easter-fun-c-21.html

Happy Easter to all!

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Peanut-Free Night - Kane County Cougars

2010-03-05T09:13:00.000-08:00

Spring is on it's way and baseball season is right around the corner! The annual Peanut-Free Night at Elfstrom Stadium will be held on Wednesday, July 14th at 6:30 PM. The event will once again take place on the first day of a homestand so that they can ensure the stadium is properly cleaned.

If you have any questions or would like to order tickets, please contact Erin Wiencek at 630-232-8811 or ewiencek@kanecountycougars.com.

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New FAAW toolbar!

2010-02-21T07:10:00.000-08:00

We have something new and exciting we'd like to share with you! It's the new Food Allergy Association of WI toolbar - once added to IE or Firefox, each time you shop at more than 1,300 stores (from Amazon to Zazzle!) a percentage of your purchase will automatically be donated to Food Allergy Association of WI - at no cost to you (and you may even save money as the toolbar provides coupons and deals as well!). The toolbar also has a search box and each time you search the Internet, about a penny is donated to Food Allergy Association of WI.
http://www.goodsearch.com/toolbar/food-allergy-association-of-wi

Please pass this along to all of your friends. The two minutes it takes to add this toolbar to your browser can make a lifetime of difference!

Get the toolbar NOW!
http://www.goodsearch.com/toolbar/food-allergy-association-of-wi

Valentine's Day Treats

2010-02-11T11:45:00.000-08:00

Valentine’s Day is just a few days away, and what better way to let your friends and family know how much you love them than to make allergy-friendly Valentine treats! Whether you make heart shaped pancakes for breakfast or just frost sugar cookies with pink icing, your little ones will be excited and feel extra special! But if you’re looking for some new ideas, maybe you’d like to give one of these recipes a try…

Lemony Love Potion

12-ounce can of pink lemonade concentrate
1 cup raspberry sorbet (I use Whole Fruit brand, available at Woodman’s)
12 ounces lemon/lime soda

In a pitcher, prepare the lemonade concentrate with recommended amount of water. In a separate pitcher, combine the sorbet, soda, and 1 cup of the lemonade. Stir, serve, and enjoy!

Easy Oreo Truffles
1 (16 ounce) package Oreo cookies
1 (8 ounce) container Tofutti soy cream cheese
1 package Enjoy Life chocolate chips

Crush cookies in a food processor or resealable plastic bag using a rolling pin. Place in a medium bowl. Add soy cream cheese and mix until well blended. Roll cookie mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place balls in refrigerator or freezer for about an hour. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler. Dip the balls in the chocolate and place on a wax paper covered baking sheet. Decorate with sprinkles or colored sugar if desired. Refrigerate until firm. Store leftover truffles, covered, in refrigerator.

Variation: Use Golden Oreos in place of the chocolate Oreos and add a couple drops of red food coloring to the cookie/soy cream cheese mixture to give the truffles a nice pink color for Valentine’s Day when biting into them!

And of course you can never go wrong with…

Chocolate Covered Strawberries
1 package Enjoy Life chocolate chips
2 Tbsp shortening (optional)
1 pound fresh strawberries with leaves

In a double boiler, melt the chocolate chips and shortening, stirring occasionally until smooth. Carefully dip the strawberries into the chocolate mixture and place on wax paper to cool. Refrigerate until the chocolate is set.

Dr. Oz talks about food allergies

2010-01-21T08:58:00.001-08:00

New Auto-Injector Now Available

2010-01-12T09:52:00.000-08:00

Sciele Pharma, Inc., has introduced a new auto-injector for emergency treatment of anaphylaxis. Adrenaclick is a single-dose epinephrine auto-injector and will be available as a single unit or a convenient two-pack. It is available in two dosing options (0.15 mg and 0.3 mg).

Check out the website to see a picture of the new Adrenaclick and to learn more about it!
http://www.adrenaclick.com/

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NBC 15 Coverage of Badger Allergy Friendly Game

2010-01-11T11:51:00.000-08:00

Allergy Friendly Game
Living with allergies can make even the simplest task, such as going to a basketball game, next to impossible.

It doesn't take much for some people to have allergic reaction. A simple touch can sometime be enough to send someone to the emergency room.

But Sunday, staff at the Kohl Center took extra steps to make sure anyone with food allergies could come out and enjoy a game.

It's not something they get to do often: go to a game as a family. "We've been to a Brewers game and it was terrifying." It's not that Rachel Madden and her family don't want to, or that they don't have the time. It's because of their son's allergies. Madden says, "What concerns us the most is that if somebody eats peanuts or something with dairy and then touched something and then he touched it and then ate himself... he could have a reaction from something like that."

5-year-old Joe is allergic to all nuts, dairy products and eggs. If he has any contact with these foods or products containing them, he could be sick for days or worse.

"It's hard to enjoy big events like this because you're nervous that there might be a situation that you might end up in the emergency room."

Sunday, Madden and her family drove from New Berlin--just outside of Milwaukee--to come to the Kohl Center--for their allergy friendly women's basketball game.

Three sections were specially cleaned to make sure they were safe for people with allergies. But the special precautions didn't just end with the seating; they also had to take very special measures with the food preparations.

"They have pecan ice cream which then would possibly contaminate the other ice cream if they used the same scoop."

Sheree Godwin is the President of the Food Allergy Association of Wisconsin--her group, along with the UW, helped organize the event.

Her kids also suffer from allergies--she says an event like this allows families to go out and not have to worry.

Madden couldn't agree more. "We're still a little bit worried but I do feel very safe."

This was the first time the Food Allergy Association of Wisconsin has ever done anything like this. They have another outing planned. In February, they'll be back at the Kohl Center for a women's hockey game.

Allergen Friendly Badger Sporting Events

2010-01-11T11:41:00.000-08:00

Food Allergy Families Enjoy First Badger Sporting Event

UW Officials Cleaned Area In Special Section

MADISON, Wis. -- For the first time ever, the Wadzinski family of Madison got to enjoy a University of Wiscosnin Badger sporting event together.The family watched the Badgers women's basketball take on the University of Michigan Wolverines."They took a lot of steps –- UW -– along with our Allergy Association, and it worked out really well today," said Craig Wadzinski.Normally, the Wadzinski's avoid sporting events because their daughter Emily is highly allergic to peanuts, tree nuts and eggs. The dust from a cracked peanut shell can create a serious allergic reaction in Emily.But, Sunday's game was the first UW allergy friendly game."She's ecstatic and excited to know she can even go to a game," said Emily's mom, Diane Wadzinski. "The more she realizes it, the more she knows what's going on around her and she gets jealous if she can't do it."To allow food-allergic children and their families to enjoy Badger athletics, the UW took special steps on Sunday at seated the families in a special section."They not only swept and cleaned like normal, but they washed every seat, they wiped all the rails," said Wadzinski.For allergy-friendly games, there were also changes at the concession stand –- no peanuts or peanut products.With less for parents to worry about, families can focus on fun.

DAIRY, EGG, PEANUT, TREE NUT FREE SHORTBREAD COOKIES!

2009-12-09T07:56:00.000-08:00

1 c. dairy free margarine (I use Fleischman’s Unsalted)
3/4 c. granulated sugar
2 1/2 c. unbleached all purpose flour
1 tsp. salt

Preheat oven to 300 degrees and line baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixer fitted with the paddle attachment combine the dairy free margarine and sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour and salt and mix until the dough comes together and is fully incorporated.

Roll out dough onto a lightly floured board to 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutter. Place on baking sheet and bake 20-22 minutes or just until very lightly golden on top and bottom of cookie. The cookies shouldn’t have any brown color to it.

Once cooled you can frost with safe frosting or sprinkles, and candy.

Food Allergy Initiative

2009-12-03T07:46:00.000-08:00

Each year food allergies kill over 150 Americans and send 125,000 more to the emergency room. Even more troubling is the fact that the number of Americans suffering with food allergies is dramatically increasing. With no known cures, medical professionals are still unable to explain why the number is rising.

The only known way to treat this life-threatening condition currently is avoidance of the food to which you or your loved one are allergic to. Sending our children to school can be a very frightening experience considering that even a tiny amount of allergen from another child's snack can trigger a severe allergic reaction.

Fortunately, researchers believe that a cure is on the horizon, but further research is necessary for this to happen. The Government has allocated only $17 million to the research and study of treatments for food allergies, compared to $107 million allocated toward attention deficit disorder research. We obviously need to educate Americans about the severity of food allergies and the importance of finding a cure for this life-threatening condition!

Learn what you can do to help raise awareness by visiting the Food Allergy Initiative at http://www.faiusa.org/ today. It could mean saving a child's life.

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Peanut Free Planet

2009-11-25T10:02:00.000-08:00

Anyone who attended the November support group meeting had the opportunity to pick up some samples that Peanut Free Planet was kind enough to send us, including packets of Sunbutter, Doctor Kracker spelt crackers, and Honey Nutz which are honey roasted soy nuts. After visiting the website I was very pleased to find a one-stop shop which carried such a large variety of allergy friendly manufacturers and products. It was also nice to see that they strive to go the extra mile to reassure customers that they are getting a personalized shopping experience such as being able to shop by specific allergens, brands, or even price. And of course all products available from PFP are manufactured in facilities that are peanut free and tree nut free!

This would be an excellent site to keep in mind with holidays fast approaching!
http://www.peanutfreeplanet.com/

Here's what another member of our group had to say about Peanut Free Planet:

"Peanut Free Planet is a terrific company. Ordering from them is a breeze and I am never dissatisfied. Twice a year my friends and I group an order together and easily place it online. It is a joy to find such a plethora of peanut and nut free items that look and more importantly TASTE the same as the nut contaminated ones we have locally. Our favorite is the Quaker Oats chocolate chip granola bars. Others are the mass number of candy bars that are allergy friendly, too. Peanut Free Planet is one of the only places I can order Kit Kat candy bars for my daughter...and they are peanut/nut free, which is what she needs. My non-allergic son can go to the local store and eat any candy bar off the shelf. My daughter can't. What is so 'big' about a sugary, sweet candy bar? To me, not that much... but to my daughter, it's everything. Just to have the same as all the other kids, especially her brother.
Just to be the same, that is where I fell in love with PFP! They have the exact same allergy-friendly items that I need. Last year my daughter got a Kit Kat in her stocking, she knew right away....Santa shopped at Peanut Free Planet!"

Coupons, Discounts, & Special Offers

2009-10-21T11:01:00.000-07:00

Many children (and adults) with food allergies also have environmental and/or seasonal allergies, asthma, and eczema. Which usually translates into lots of different medications! For example, both of my sons and myself suffer from all of the above ailments, so between the three of us we use about 20 prescription medications consisting of inhalers, nasal sprays, antihistamines, medicated creams/lotions/ointments, etc...which really puts a dent in the wallet. However, I have found that many medication websites offer great money-saving coupons! So next time you're given a prescription, be sure to check the affiliated website for special offers before heading to the pharmacy!

Here are the special offers that I have found so far. If you know of any others, please leave a comment!

~Nasal Sprays~

Nasonex:
https://www.nasonex.com/nasx/application?namespace=coupon&event=coupon&event_input=
Save up to $15 per refill.

Veramyst:
https://www.veramyst.com/optin/savings.jsp
Up to $25 off your prescription and refills. Can use up to 6 coupons per year.

~Inhalers~

Ventolin:
http://www.ventolin.com/coupon_special_offers.jsp
Offer limited to 4 prescription refills per year.

Advair:
https://www.advair.com/asthma/coupons-and-special-offers/coupons-and-special-offers.jsp
The coupon states it is for the Advair Discus (which contains a milk ingredient!), but I have verified with the company that the coupon is also good towards the Advair HFA inhaler. This coupon can be used monthly.

Xopenex:
https://secure.xopenex.com/xopenexPromos/xopenex-offer.cfm
Not a coupon for the actual medication, but sign up here for a free Xopenex inhaler holder.

Proventil:
https://www.proventilhfa.com/phfa/application?namespace=coupon&event=coupon&web_program_id=00000304
$15 instant savings coupon

~Antihistamines~

Zyrtec:
http://www.zyrtec.com/econsumer/zyrtec/utility.view?body=/zyrtec/pages/special_offers.jsp
$2 and $4 coupons

Xyzal:
http://www.xyzal.com/patient_resources/freetrialoffer.aspx
5 day free trial prescription

Allegra:
http://www.allegra.com/rebate.aspx
$24 rebate

Claritin:http://www.claritin.com/claritin/offers/index.jspa$2 coupons

~Autoinjectable Epinephrine~

Twinject:
http://www.twinject.com/allergy-treatment-resources/injector-rebate.asp
$20 rebate

~Antileukotriene~

Singulair:
http://www.singulair.com/montelukast_sodium/singulair/consumer/r/for_adults/savings_offer_for_singulair/index.jsp
Save up to $20.

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Nick News online

2009-10-02T12:12:00.000-07:00

The entire Nick News show, "I'm Allergic to my World", is now available to watch online!

Description:
What is it like to have a deadly allergy? Nick News investigates.

http://www.nick.com/videos/clip/nick-news-allergic-to-my-world-full-episode.html

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I'm Allergic To My World

2009-09-23T07:06:00.000-07:00

On September 27, Dr. Robert Wood of Johns Hopkins will appear on "Nick News with Linda Ellerbee" to talk about kids living with food allergies.

Learn more here: I'm Allergic To My World

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Here We Go Again!

2009-08-22T14:13:00.000-07:00

It’s back to school time again which means purchasing new school supplies, backpacks, clothing, shoes, etc… But for those of us with food allergic children it also means renewing all emergency medication to be kept at school such as EpiPens, rescue inhaler, and Benadryl and just as importantly, it means meeting with our children’s new teachers and making sure they fully understand the seriousness of food allergies, including how to handle an allergic reaction should it happen while your child is at school and hopefully how to prevent an allergic reaction from happening in the first place!

Linda Coss, author of several food allergy cookbooks, has written an excellent article about why it is important for schools to implement food allergy policies to keep our children safe. It also is written in a way so that parents of “all the other kids” can hopefully understand why these safety measures are needed rather then simply telling the food allergic children “just don’t eat what you’re allergic to”. I personally plan on forwarding this article to the principal at my son’s school in hopes that she will send copies home with all of the children in his class to pass on to their parents.

Click here to read "Attack of the Killer Peanut Butter Sandwiches":
http://www.foodallergybooks.com/Media_Files/attack_pb_sandwich.htm

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Pictures from the Food Allergy Walk

2009-08-11T09:13:00.000-07:00

A big thanks to everyone who participated in the 2009 Food Allergy Awareness Walk on Saturday! We all got a little wet (okay, a lot wet) but it was well worth it!

Betty Crocker Gluten-Free Coupons

2009-07-30T14:28:00.000-07:00

Betty Crocker now offers four gluten-free products which include a brownie mix, cookie mix, devil's food cake mix, and a yellow cake mix. To request a coupon for one free gluten-free mix, simply call 1-800-446-1898.

Researchers Find New Way of Reducing the Symptoms of Anaphylactic Shock

2009-07-27T13:37:00.000-07:00

A team of researchers from the University of Glasgow have pinpointed a molecule (IL-33) which plays a key role in the development of anaphylaxis.

"Our study showed that IL-33 plays a pivotal role in hugely increasing the inflammation experienced during a period of anaphylactic shock and led us to understand how to intervene to reduce its impact.

An anaphylactic shock prompts a massive inflammatory reaction which often is so severe that it constricts breathing. In our study we found that the severity of the shock is linked to the IL-33 molecule, which acts as an amplifier to the inflammatory reaction. This can lead to a fatal constriction of the airway and, ultimately, death.

Our study suggests that patients with the most severe anaphylactic reactions have very high levels of IL33 in their system.

In basic terms, without the IL33 molecule, the allergic reaction experienced would be far less severe, greatly reducing the risk of death."

Read full article here: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/158771.php

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Website for Food Allergic Teens

2009-07-22T11:08:00.000-07:00

As a parent of a son with multiple food allergies who is fast approaching his "tween" years, I often wonder how he will handle the full responsibility of his allergies when he is a teenager and young adult. I recently found this new website called www.whyriskit.ca , sponsored by Anaphylaxis Canada, which covers everything from high school, to dating, to partying, and plenty more with teens sharing their own personal experiences. I think this website will be a great resource for young people as they continue through their food allergy journey!

2009 Food Allergy Awareness Walk

2009-07-21T11:44:00.000-07:00

I hope to see you all at the upcoming Food Allergy Awareness Walk. This is our yearly fundraiser so that FAAW can continue to help families with food allergies. If you are unable to attend but would still like to donate to the event you can go to www.firstgiving.com/foodallergywis and donate.

Walk for Children, Teens, and Adults with Food Allergies

Saturday, August 8, 2009

9:00 A.M. Registration

Warner Park

2930 N Sherman Ave

Madison, WI

Join Us & Walk For A Child, Teen or Adult With Allergies!

Build Your Team or Register!

Six Easy Steps:

1. Go to www.firstgiving.com/foodallergywis

2. Click on "Register for an Event"

3. Select "Food Allergy Walk"

4. Select your registration type.

5. Log in or create an account.

6. Find a team to join or create a new team.

Or Contact:

Food Allergy Association of WI

2722 Union Street

Madison, WI 53704

Phone: 608-575-9535

E-mail: sheree@foodallergywis.org

Fax your registration and credit card information to:608-249-5215

Let your creativity run wild!

Great ideas: Create a t-shirt with your child's picture, dress up as your food allergy. Show your allergies with signs, posters, and team shirts.

Create a Fundraising Page!

Build your own online fundraising web page at www.firstgiving.com/foodallergywis

Send your friends, family members, and co-workers messages asking them to support your own fundraising efforts. Ask your company if they have a program to match your donation.

Email me for a link to download the brochure in PDF format.

Needle-Free Epinephrine Autoinjector

2009-07-04T12:01:00.000-07:00

LONDON, 1st July 2009-- "The Medical House PLC (“TMH”), (AIM:MLH) the specialist drug delivery company, announces that it has now supplied Merck Serono, a division of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, with an advanced needle-free jet injector system specifically designed and manufactured to their specification. The system, known as “cool.click?” incorporates a number of features not previously associated with needle-free devices, such as an innovative dose display. In addition, an enhanced security system allows for safe injection while the level of noise associated with the injection has been minimised..."

"In October 2008 TMH announced a non-exclusive development, licence and supply agreement with Catalent Pharma Solutions and Stallergenes to develop and distribute a variation of the company’s core disposable autoinjector technology for use with epinephrine. Under the terms of this agreement, TMH will customise its proprietary, patented ASITM disposable autoinjector device technology, according to an agreed specification and will be combined with epinephrine supplied by Catalent to create epinephrine autoinjectors for both adult and paediatric use.

These epinephrine autoinjectors are intended for the emergency treatment of anaphylactic shock, mostly due to hymenoptera venom or food allergies and for the use by patients themselves or by a person close to the patient in the event of an emergency. The newly-created product will be distributed exclusively by Stallergenes who are a European biopharmaceutical company, with annual sales in 2007 of ?? million, dedicated to desensitisation therapies for the prevention and treatment of allergy-related conditions. The Agreement covers 13 European countries, including the United Kingdom and incorporates provision for extension to additional territories."

Read entire article here... http://www.pharmalive.com/News/index.cfm?articleid=637156&categoryid=54

Swine Flu Vaccine Safe for Egg Allergy

2009-06-26T10:44:00.000-07:00

Novartis is making an H1N1 vaccine in cells that should be safe for the egg allergic according to the following article.

"...the cell-based method "eliminates the rare but vexing problem of egg allergy" that means some people can't take a flu vaccine."

http://www.medpagetoday.com/InfectiousDisease/SwineFlu/14684