Toddlers & Teens

One of the biggest challenges we have in managing our daughter's anaphylactic peanut allergy is that she has no idea that she is allergic to anything. She is only two and it just does not register. What is disconcerting however, is that one of the most vulnerable groups to a fatal allergic reaction are teens. Though teens are well aware of their allergy, the teenage years are very challenging and kids just want to fit in. Unfortunately this often means that teens choose 'fitting in' over carrying epinephrine auto-injectors, asking about ingredients and asking the boy they are about to kiss whether he ate peanut or other allergenic foods that day.

FAAN is actively involved in an awareness campaign for teens. I recommend that you take the time to read and watch their multimedia press release. You should also visit their FAANteen site.