Gluton and Corn Free

Last week we had a follow up appointment for Harris concerning his EE. After the food impaction a few weeks ago, where they had to go in and physically remove the lodged food, there is a bit more urgency to figuring out the foods that are causing the problems. Therefore, our doctor recommended that we take wheat and corn out of his diet altogether.

I'm going to be honest in that I have been absolutely dreading this moment. Selfishly, I don't want to change the way I cook, shop and eat. And I don't want him to not be able to participate in snack at school, lunch at friends' and fun treats for special occasions. Of course, Harris's health comes first and we will do what we must to ensure that he is healthy. And thus we begin.

I took some time yesterday and perused the Whole Foods and Trader Joe's aisles. I'm sure that it will take time to figure out our favorite brands and products. We've managed for two days and it has gone smoothly and drama free (the drama would be from me not Harris!). I'm sort of pinning a lot of hopes on this gluten free flour that has gotten rave reviews. According to the package you can just substitute it for regular all purpose flour. Here's to hoping!

I have to say a word about Harris and his unbelievable attitude. He has been so positive and upbeat when at the hospital, explaining that he has to change the way he eats and taking his medication. I could not have asked for my little boy to be able to handle this with more bravery and determination. I wish I could handle it as well.

What about you? Do you have any product recommendations? Cookbooks? Websites? I'd appreciate any advice you can give me. Thank you in advance.

The SafetySack

As we were getting ready to send Harris off to preschool I also had to think about getting his "in case of emergency" packet ready. As most of you know, Harris is allergic to peanuts and tree nuts. Fortunately, his preschool is peanut/nut free which makes it really easy, although I know that will come to an end once he begins grammar school. I'm not going to worry about that until the times come (I'm still really hopeful that he will grow out of it...unlikely I know but one can hope).

A year ago I was struggling with how to carry around the EpiPen, contact list and the Bendadryl. After some research I found the SafetySack. It's a heavy duty, zippered plastic bag (which locks) that fits an EpiPen, Benadryl, and an instruction sheet. The instruction sheet has contact information, emergency action plan, EpiPen directions and a place for a photo.

Now I just throw the pouch in my purse and go. It is also easy to give to caregivers, such as his preschool.