“I know I am more than my Celiac Disease, but it is a large part of who I am.”

When looking at how my food allergy has shaped my life, I would say it has had a positive impact on my life. Being diagnosed with Celiac Disease was definitely an adjustment. My family had to make budget adjustments in order to be able to provide me with food I could eat. I had to adjust where I ate out and the preparation that those restaurants had to take. Having Celiac Disease has placed me into a community. A community of those who are embracing their differences and showing other people how to make food that is both delicious and safe.

It has been almost 3 years since I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease. I am healthy now and have completely adjusted my habits. When I got sick before I got diagnosed, I lost 40 pounds in less than 6 months. I could barely eat anything. I still had to get up everyday and go to work and soccer practice. I was physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausted. I went through numerous tests and rounds of blood work.

I never thought being diagnosed with a food allergy would be a good thing, but for me it is. It has shaped my identity into the woman I am today. I do not define myself by my food allergy, but I embrace it as part of who I am. It is one of many things that makes me special. I am a part of several online groups that help spread recipes that are gluten free as well as certain stores or bakeries that carry gluten free stuff. There have also been several apps that have been dedicated to helping find gluten free food.

I know I am more than my Celiac Disease, but it is a large part of who I am. Being diagnosed with Celiac Disease has made me more aware of my surroundings, conscientious, and adaptable. These are all qualities that I may not have if it was not for my Celiac Disease. Overall, being diagnosed with Celiac Disease has shaped my life in a positive way and has helped develop my identity.

- Amber