This week was a difficult one for me. You see my first born granddaughter, Piper, was born with the Terrifying Peanut Allergy. She always has to have an Epi Pen within reach. Last year she decided she was "ready" to become a part of Stanford's Alliance for Food Allergy Reasearch's Peanut Study. It is a study in which children with the allegy wear a special "patch" applied to their back for a period of time. The hope is that by introducing the allergen itself in minimal portions each day the child might eventually become immune to it. The importance of this is enormous. It means that the child will not have to be continually "on guard" against something that could KILL them. Yes KILL them. It also takes away the "stigma" of being the odd one out, the one kid that has to have special treatment. No child wants to be "the different one". Reaching these children at an early age can eliminate the fear and the treat of death. This program is amazing. This program is life-saving. Piper's parents know how lucky they are to have become a part of it. They also realize just how brave their little girl is.
After wearing a special "patch" for the last six months it was time to test for the results of it's effectiveness this past Wednesday. That meant a long ride to Palo Alto early in the morning, checking into the clinic and eating bowl after bowl of "disgusting" pudding which may or may not have been laced with peanuts. Can you even imagine that? I mean at eight years old???
The last time Piper was tested she could only ingest 100 mil before symptoms of her alergy were evident....BUT this time she managed 1000mil. (Now that is a LOT of disgusting pudding!!). But to her Mom, her Dad and all the other people who adore her it was RELIEF and pure JOY!!!
Needless to say I was anxious about the results but as a Gram I was focused on Piper's bravery and I couldn't wait until it was just plain over. I thought I'd best put my time to a better use than wandering about the house. I decided to make something special for Piper instead. I wanted it to be something special. I wanted her to be able to remember how special she was during that long day of "pudding eating".
Here is the result of my fidgety worry:
I do so hope she will love it. She loves bright happy colors and I tried to pick as many as I could find.
I love this special little girl with my bi-coastal heart....
Directions for Bag: http://attic24.typepad.com Jolly Chunky Bag (on left side)
I understand so well about food allergies for kids, as my daughter has several too. It's been difficult for her, as sometimes they are "outcasts" at school, being segragated at meal time, which further alienates them from their friends. So tough on kids! I wish you're little granddaughter all the best in possibly overcoming the worst of this allergy. While she'll always have to be very careful, this is a wonderful start to feeling like she can take a breath without so much fear. My best to you, Linda!
ReplyDeleteIlene
What a LOVELY reply. I so appreciate your support.
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