Summary

A parent reflects on the unexpected emergence of their child's allergic reaction during a busy day filled with celebrations and the subsequent emotional and practical challenges faced by the family.

Abstract

The narrative begins with the author recounting a hectic day that takes an unexpected turn with the discovery of a screw in their tire, requiring a tire change. The day's chaos escalates with the onset of their child's severe allergic reaction, leading to a rush to the doctor and a period of anxiety over the unknown allergen. Despite the fear and uncertainty, the parent remains steadfast in their resolve to support their children through their allergy journeys. The article concludes with the child showing signs of recovery and the author's gratitude for the support received, while also emphasizing the importance of being vigilant about allergies.

Opinions

The author conveys a mix of emotions, from the initial excitement of the day's events to the fear and concern triggered by their child's allergic reaction.
There is a sense of personal growth and resilience as the parent reflects on their ability to handle the situation and remain strong for their children.
The author expresses gratitude for the community's support and the medical professionals who provided care during the emergency.
The experience has led to a renewed commitment to allergy awareness and the importance of being prepared for potential reactions.
The author shares a personal mantra of focusing on the present rather than dwelling on "what ifs," which seems to be a coping mechanism during times of uncertainty.

The Screw

T’was only yesterday I noticed you.…a sign perhaps of knowing something new

Quick! We are running late Late for a birthday date Playing, laughing having fun

Quick! It’s time to get more done

Pick up a car seat from the shop Hold my hand, that car won’t stop Snap goes the harness into place

Crap! Is that a screw in my tyre’s face

Out comes the jack and spare To replace the tyre leaking air Glad I remembered the steps And strength still in my biceps

Back home safely for bit A moment or two to just sit Almost time for another celebration

Quick! No more time for hesitation

Stop!

What has happened to your eyes An old fear starts to rise My darling child is starting to swell Big sister’s reaction remembered well

Hives all over your little tummy It’s starting to feel scary for mummy Off to a doctor that is still open Please not again I am hope’n

Phew! A reaction not as severe Your airway is all clear The danger not over yet 48 hours for your body to reset

Unknown allergen for now More to know as time allows No more haste or need to rush Mum is here for you no fuss

I will stay strong for the both of you Wherever your allergy journeys go to

I will always love you both

A whirlwind of a day.

I am sitting in thought about what this means for our family. Writing to help process yesterday’s events.

No reactions in three and a half years. I had been thinking we were home clear on the allergy front for Matilda.

Billie’s first reactions to eggs and nuts happened before she was one. Her anaphylaxis confirmed before she was two.

What Happened When I Ate Peanut Butter

A poem from my daughter's perspective Eggs also make me feel yuck,Any trace of them and I upchuck. "Does this have eggs…

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Allergy Angst at Parties and Gatherings

"Billie, would you like one?" Across the picnic table, I watch as someone offers my daughter a mini sausage roll…

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I assumed wrong. Yep the ole making an ass and of u and me.

I am reminding myself to focus on what is and not what ifs.

Especially until we know more.

It is really all I can do.

Although Matilda’s face is still swollen, she is back to her high spirited self today.

Bringing a smile back to my face listening to her and sister playing.

At the party, and the first sign of her eye swelling — we first thought she had soap in her eye…until the other eye started to swell and the hives appeared — photos my own

Today at breakfast — still swollen but acting more like her usual self — photos my own

Please remember allergies can become life threatening.

It is important to get medical attention at the first signs of a reaction as symptoms can progress very quickly.

Thanks for reading

Thanks for being you