Allergy Stories in the News

http://www.wxyz.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=6961f0f9-adb0-4391-a880-a89fa3d95036

http://www.wxyz.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=6961f0f9-adb0-4391-a880-a89fa3d95036

Sorry for the messy links. I'm not quite sure how to post them without the full address.

At any rate here are two stories in the news.

The first is about an eighth grade student who apparently intentionally planted a peanut butter cookie in his peanut allergic classmate's lunch pail. Said student is now being charged with a felony. Now, I think what he did was atrocious, particularly since it seems that he knew the FA (food allergy or food allergic) student was indeed allergic. However, my question is if he really understood the ramifications of his actions. So many adults don't really get food allergies. Many equate them with the severity of seasonal or environmental allergies, which, while pesky, are not typically life threatening. I'm interested in how this case plays out, what the student who was charged intentions were, and if he really understood what would happen.

Often times, those with food allergies are in some ways dependent on those around them (in part) for their safety. There are good reasons why schools go peanut (or other allergen) free, why doctor's offices have signs, etc. It's truly scary knowing that something as innocent as a cookie could kill you. Teaching children without food allergies the dangers of certain foods to certain people and instilling empathy in them (not pity), is key and is greatly appreciated by families who deal with FA.

The second story is about an inmate who died after eating a peanut butter sandwich. I'm interested in the findings of the investigation and whether it was a suicide, accidental, or "forced". If it was accidental, its a sad reminder that food allergies can develop at any time, even with foods that one has eaten for years without a problem. Sometimes it can be sudden (anaphylaxis after having no symptoms). Others, it can develop over time. Pay attention to your body. If you feel "funny" or your mouth is itchy after eating something, stop and get tested. Just because a reaction is minor this time, doesn't mean it will continue to be minor. Even those with minor food allergies should strictly avoid their allergens and carry epi pens and benadryl with them at all times.