By Gina Mennett Lee, M.Ed.  FoodAllergyConsulting.com

“It takes a village to raise a child. It takes a child with autism to raise the consciousness of the village.” Coach Elaine Hall

This quote was shared by Dr. Rob Melillo via twitter this morning and it immediately struck a cord. It so perfectly captures how I feel about food allergies (as well as autism and other disabilities). These children are here to teach us lessons such as strength, compassion, perseverance, selflessness and unconditional love.  As much as I wish there were no such thing as a food allergy, I am thankful for what this condition has taught me and my family.  But what is this condition telling us about our society?  Have food allergies raised the consciousness of the village?

Have food allergies raised the consciousness of the village?

I believe that we will eventually find a cure for food allergies.  Effective treatments are already on the horizon.  But I am more concerned about the fallout from this chapter in our history.   I have experienced unkind behavior from others in response to my child’s medical condition and I’ve heard many stories too offensive to even repeat. Just take a look at the “comments” section of any mainstream media article about food allergies and you will see firsthand the anger and resentment thrust upon the food allergy community.

“I try to view misunderstandings as an opportunity to educate.”

I believe the majority of these comments are the result of misplaced anger, ignorance and misunderstandings.  I see these responses as an opportunity to educate.  I have to believe that if people really understood the seriousness of food allergies, the social and emotional impact of it, that they would do all they could to support adults and children with this condition.  So, I continue to work, to educate, to advocate.

So, my questions to you are:

What have food allergies revealed about your community?

What has your child taught you?