Over 15 million people live with food allergies. Nearly 6 million of those affected are children, which is about 8% of that age population. Although the video above brings light to the matter, it's much more difficult for youth to find humor in their own differences.
With such staggering statistics, it is hard to believe that awareness and education fall flat when it comes to Food Allergies. For young ones living with Food Allergies, they learn from a very young age that they are not like the rest--carrying around an Epi-pen, never sharing food with anyone, checking labels, calling restaurants ahead--the list goes on. Not doing any of these things, like the rest of their normal friends, could have a tragic or even fatal consequence.
Many parents have to fight school systems to enact food policies to make sending their tot off to school a little less terrifying. Even then, the only result is implementing a separate food allergy table at lunch-time. What does that do to an already alienated child? Isolates them even more.
THE GOODNESS
In the late 80's, American Girl's brand story originated with dolls that highlighted various historical eras, but through the years their focus has shifted. While the underlying gist of Kirsten and Addy was to educate toddlers on diversity and struggle, their narratives took place in the past and were ultimately harder for a child to fully identify with.
In the 90's, the company introduced customizable dolls. As a child growing up with cookie cutter features options, there was finally a doll that they could relate to. Whether you were the whitest white, an interesting shade of olive, or a unique dark mocha, you now didn't have to question your existence while comparing yourself to Barbie.
This holiday season, American Girl has done it again. They've introduced an array of accessories that may help kids who oftentimes feel excluded, feel validated. One accessory that is gaining a lot of attention is the Food Allergy Lunch. It includes everything that an anaphylactic child would carry; medical ID bracelet, epinepherine injector, and allergy stickers.
HOW CAN I HELP?
- Understand the seriousness of Food Allergies. Some people mistakenly think that it is a diet choice, yet it is a medical condition that can result in death. Use this link list to learn more:
- If you are attending or hosting a party that involves food, always ask guests about food allergies. There is an abundance of blogs and sites that offer delicious, food allergy conscious recipes. Here are some great ones:
- If you have a young family member or friend that has an American Doll, consider buying this accessory! Even if they aren't personally affected by Food Allergies, bullying those who do have it is an unfortunate occurrence. This gift has the potential to teach them tolerance and acceptance!
- Like all medical conditions, there are experts and researchers hard at work trying to discover new treatments, breakthroughs, and possibly cures. In order to keep these efforts going, they rely on donations. Donate or participate in a fundraiser! Here are some great opportunities:
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