“Living with these allergies has brought both challenges and unexpected lessons.”

Food allergies have been a defining part of my life for as long as I can remember. My first allergic reaction occurred before I turned one, when a piece of cheese triggered a life-threatening episode of anaphylactic shock. From that moment on, my journey with food allergies began, marked by countless doctor visits and eventually a diagnosis of severe allergies to dairy and eggs on my first birthday. Shortly afterward, shellfish was added to that list.

Living with these allergies has brought both challenges and unexpected lessons. I’ve come to understand that hope and disappointment often coexist. I have celebrated moments when I could offer support to others going through similar experiences, but I have also mourned the loss of the freedom that most people enjoy with food. There’s always a lingering fear whether dining out, trying new foods, or attending social gatherings could cause a reaction despite my diligence. These experiences have strengthened my resolve to promote education, awareness, and support for individuals managing food allergies.

Currently, I am a freshman at Indiana State University, learning to navigate campus life while maintaining my safety. For the first time, I’m solely responsible for advocating for myself and carefully researching everything I consume. It has been both challenging and empowering. Carrying an EpiPen at all times and staying vigilant has heightened my anxiety, but it has also deepened my independence and resilience. It’s humbling to know that something as small as a single bite of the wrong food can have serious consequences regardless of how careful I am.
Despite the strength I’ve gained, the social challenges of college life remain difficult. Activities such as dating, eating out, and attending events can be stressful and isolating. Watching my peers enjoy experiences that I must often forgo has not been easy. However, I am incredibly grateful to have a supportive and inclusive group of friends who go out of their way to ensure I feel safe and involved. This has been detrimental in my own personal happiness, mission and safety.

These experiences have shaped more than just my lifestyle-they have shaped my future. The anxiety I’ve faced has inspired a passion for mental health advocacy. I am currently pursuing a degree in psychology with the goal of supporting individuals, especially children, who suffer from anxiety and depression related to food allergies. I hope to eventually obtain my M.S. in counseling so that this goal comes to fruition. My personal journey has given me both the empathy and insight to help others develop a healthy, empowered relationship with food and self-advocacy.
Ultimately, my goal is to transform my lived experiences into something meaningful. I want to use the challenges I’ve faced not only as a source of strength for myself but as a tool to uplift others facing similar struggles.

- Andrue S.