Welcome to the MOCHA Spring 2020 ENews!
A Message to Our MOCHA Friends:
Our hopes and prayers are that your family and friends are all safe during this COVID-19 emergency. As all of us are following federal and state guidelines, we did want to try and still put together some food allergy reading for you all. As always, we are here for you. And while we aren’t on social media, we read and respond to every email we receive.

Stay safe!
Denise and Anne

Denise@MOCHAllergies.org
Afieldthomp@aol.com
FARE: Food Allergy Research and Education
FARE's Comprehensive COVID-19 Resources
During a disaster, more families managing food allergies may face food insecurity and struggle to find nutritious, allergy-friendly foods. FARE includes information on food banks, epinephrine assistance programs and discounts to support YOU.
Q&A on COVID-19 and Food Allergies with Dr. Tom Casale
Dr. Tom Casale is the Chief Medical Advisor for Operations of FARE and he is here to answer questions regarding patients with asthma and allergic diseases. Take a look at his answers to 10 recent and important questions.
Why We Need The FASTER Act
The FASTER Act mandates the collection of patient data to help food allergy researchers. It also updates labeling requirements to accommodate new allergens, including sesame. You can help keep our list of supporters growing! Contact your member of Congress and urge them to co-sponsor this game-changing bill.
Courage at Congress: FARE's Advocacy Day to Fight Food Allergies
FARE descended on D.C. from March 2nd to March 4th to show our community’s strength, build awareness of food allergy issues on Capitol Hill, and motivate legislators to support the expansion of research by co-sponsoring the FASTER Act (H.R. 2117). 
About FARE
FARE spreads awareness about food allergies-- a public health issue that affects schools, businesses, and communities. They work hard to ensure that every dollar they raise advances the mission: improving life and health for 32 million Americans with food allergies and providing hope for the promise of new treatments.

FARE's latest report is a wealth of resources on upcoming events, talks about the launch of their brand new website and provides updates on the Food Allergy Safety Treatment Education and Research (FASTER) Act!
FARE Boards
FARE is governed by a nine-member operating board known as the Board of Directors. FARE recently introduced two non-voting boards, the Board of Governors and the Board of National Ambassadors, to better position FARE to rapidly respond to the evolving landscape of food allergy and support the organization's growth.

For more board information, contact Michael Trager at mtrager@foodallergy.org.
Research, Newsletters and Blogs
Hillary Tolle Carter: Food Allergy Mama and Advocate
This website showcases Hillary's work over the last several years, including media clips and event photos. It also includes an informative blog with informational and hopeful tips and stories from our food allergy life.

One of her recent blog posts talks about an allergy friendly meal in "The Best Dinner + Dessert" which highlights how to make a great inclusive meal! Read more below!
Celebrities with Food Allergies
On the link below, allergy amulet compiled a list of celebrities with reported food allergies and intolerances. There are so many people out there with allergies so stay inspired!
This Allergic Life and Talking Food Allergy
Allergic Living's new site takes a bold and unique approach - telling the compelling experiences of families and individuals in the food allergy community. Also making its debut on This Allergic Life is the Talking Food Allergy podcast with host Jen Jobrack, a nationally known food allergy expert. Check it out!
Allergic Living: Allergy Shopping, Cooking Tips for Coronavirus Times
With the coronavirus epidemic, these are challenging times for everyone, but for no one more than the food allergy family. Read this article about how to shop & cook during this pandemic.
What You Need to Know about COVID-19: Including Asthma Recommendations
Allergy & Asthma Network reviews the symptoms to look out for, explains who is at greatest risk for severe complications, and recommendations for people with asthma. Take a look to make sure you're up to date with the latest information.
AAAAI Releases Research Findings
Since The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) Annual Scientific Meeting was cancelled due to COVID-19, they are sharing research findings that were to be presented at the annual meeting. Read about these studies at the link below!
COVID-19 Potential Impact on Eosinophil-Associated Diseases
While there is not enough information as of yet, the American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders (APFED) is closely monitoring developments regarding the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and the potential impact on the higher-risk patients in the eosinophil-associated disease community.
4 Things You Must Know About the Flu If You Have Asthma
Up to 41 million people or more have had the flu this season, and activity is still high. If you have asthma and get the flu, you are at high risk for complications.  Find out what you need to know about the flu to stay healthy.
Designing a Coronavirus Vaccine for Next Year-- and Years Beyond
In response to the current public health crisis, the Precision Vaccines Program (PVP) at Boston Children’s Hospital is on the front lines of developing a coronavirus vaccine targeted especially toward older populations, those who are at greatest risk of developing COVID-19.
Dr. Rothenberg leads within and outside of Cincinnati Children’s. He has greatly furthered the field of allergy and immunology, as evidenced by his extensive publications (over 400) and receipt of an NIH MERIT Award in recognition and support of his research. Rothenberg is the principal investigator of the Consortium of Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disease Researchers (CEGIR) and is the director of Cincinnati Children’s  Division of Allergy and Immunology  and the Cincinnati Center for Eosinophilic Disorders (CCED).
CURED
CURED is a not for profit foundation dedicated to those suffering from Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Diseases(EGID), including eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), eosinophilic gastritis(EG), eosinophilic colitis (EC) and other eosinophilic disorders. The goal of CURED is to increase awareness about this complex group of diseases.
The Economic Potential of the Food Allergy Consumer should NOT be ignored
Read this article on the economic hardships those face with food allergies on how based on consumer demands, making more food allergy inclusive options can be fiscally beneficial for businesses.
U.S. Food & Drug Administration
FDA is alerting patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals that EpiPen 0.3mg and EpiPen Jr 0.15mg auto-injectors, and the authorized generic versions, may potentially have delayed injection or be prevented from properly injecting.
FDA Approves First Drug for Peanut Allergy
Focus Everyone: These are the most important weeks of the pandemic
Jim Baker is a doctor at University of Michigan with expertise in vaccines, immunology, lung disease, and pandemic response (you can check his LinkedIn site  or twitter site  @JRB_UMFA  for the specifics). His goal for this blog is to briefly comment on the daily developments of COVID-19 and answer questions you leave at the site.
Genentech: Supporting People Who Need Help Paying For Our Medicines
Genentech has always focused on developing breakthrough medicines for serious illnesses. They believe every person should get the Genentech medicine they need, and they offer programs to help make this happen
Joy of Eating Food Allergy Consulting
Joy of Eating Allergy Consulting is the certified and experienced partner for families living with food allergic diseases. Whether your child is newly diagnosed or their needs are changing as they grow, they are there to make life better. Joy of Eating helps bridge the gap between living with food allergies and thriving!
Sarah Ackerman: Girl Behind the Hive
Sarah Ackerman, known to her followers as "The Girl Behind the Hive" recently starred in Allure's YouTube video "Every Way Severe Allergies Make My Life Different". Whether she's shopping for beauty products, going on a date, eating out, or interviewing for a new job, Sarah shares how her allergies affect her mental health as well as her pockets. She also shows us how travels and what medicines are necessary to manage her food allergies.
COVID-19 Resources for Food Allergy and Asthma Families
You can find an extensive list of resources and links here:
Illinois Bill Would Mandate Allergic Reaction Training in Schools
A new proposal in Springfield would create a uniform standard to prepare schools and daycare facilities for handling severe allergic reactions. This would require state officials to establish anaphylactic policies for school districts and daycare centers.
Anaphylaxis -- No Seconds for Second Guessing
An article from the Food Allergy Management App recounts on Jenny Wooton Andjelkovic's serious food allergen exposure experience in her family. This article offers impactful lessons learned as a result of this scary 'close-call' scenario and offers essential resources.
Kids With Food Allergies Newsletter
Kids With Food Allergies provide information about for allergies for kids and their parents. This newsletter includes news about food allergy FDA approval, new recipes and recent food allergy recalls!
Latitude Food Allergy Care
Redwood City, California
This clinic focus on everything food allergy — from diagnosis to treatment to long-term care. We’re here to provide our patients with real solutions to improve their quality of life.
MedicAlert Foundation: Services Fully Operational
MedicAlert Foundation has two announcements:
The emergency response team is fully operational throughout this crisis. As always, our team is on call 24/7 to relay your critical medical information to first responders or emergency personnel.

Act now to ensure that your MedicAlert emergency health profile is up to date. It's the information they relay to first responders in an emergency.
Utah Food Allergy Network: Spring Art Contest
Share how you are celebrating spring this year with food allergies and social distancing! This contest is open to children aged 2 to 12 and winners will be chosen from each age group. Submit a picture of completed artwork to support@utahfoodallergy.org .
This informative chart is helpful to differentiate symptoms of COVID-19 versus the common cold, the flu, and seasonal allergies.
Food Allergy Friendly Companies, Apps, Books and Videos
Mighty Jax Book
Mighty Jax is the book and doll set which is the first superhero doll and book set geared towards kids with food allergies! Might Jax has a mission, to teach kids how to become inspired, empowered and educated about food allergies. For free shipping, use the promo code "MOCHA"!
The Class That Can: Food Allergies
This creative children’s book is a perfect way for schools to introduce and discuss food allergies to their students. It is a great book not only for kids and parents with food allergies but others without food allergies. It allows for kids to learn about allergies and what they can do instead of what they cannot!
Zippy: Children's Book
Dr. Sakina Shikari Bajowala and Suzy Bauer wrote this cute book: "Zippy: A Story About Oral Immunotherapy(OIT) for food allergies, check it out!
When Every Bite Matters Book
A book written by teen Oliver Deldicque about his life with allergies. His goal is to make this book available in doctors' offices for patients with food allergies. It is a great book to read if you have allergies or you have a friend or family member with a food allergy. The goal is to help with managing food allergies!
AllergyEats’ 2019 Food For Thought
Attached is the companion blog to the AllergyEats restaurant guide. Here they add more color to the picture - whether they are talking about restaurants, travel, legislation, personal stories or anything else related to food allergies.
Divvies
If you want vegan, nut-free, egg-free and dairy free treats, Divvies is the you want to go to!
EAT
EAT asks people what one word they would use to describe food allergies. Their answers are astounding.
88 Acres: 10 Things You Need to Know About Nutrition
88 Acres asked 10 dietitians, "what's the one thing you wish people knew about nutrition?". Here are the answers!

Get 20% off allergen-free, seed-based bars, granola, and butters when you use the code: PANTRY20
Food Allergy Fund
The New York Stock Exchange welcomes The Food Allergy Fund in order to raise awareness during Food Allergy Awareness Month. To honor the occasion Ilana Golant, Founder and CEO, rings The Opening Bell.
The Food Allergy Pros, LLC provides consultation to entities that serve the public as well as consumer packaged goods, pharmaceutical, food service, medical and other industries that wish to improve and expand products and services and enhance the safety and inclusion of people living with food allergies.
Hungry Harry's
A company forever free of the top 14 allergens! Hungry Harry's creates baking mixes that are made in a dedicated facility without cross contact and free from the top 14 allergens!
Kaneland: Allergy & Asthma Center
Dr. Sakina Bajowala and her team are committed to providing the highest quality allergy, asthma & immunology care for your entire family. Read some of Dr. Bajowala’s most recent blog posts on "Achoo!- Adventures of an Allergist Mommy"!
Mission MightyMe
New guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the NIH recommend early introduction of baby-friendly peanut foods to help prevent peanut allergies from developing. These proactive peanut puffs are a deliciously simple way to include peanuts in your little one's diet.
No Nut Traveler
Watch the founder, Lianne Mandellbaum, share her perspective:
Northwestern University: Peer-to-Peer Videos
Dr. Ruchi Gupta and her team have developed peer-to-peer food allergy educational videos that can be shown in classrooms! There are three videos tailored to different grade levels with corresponding FAQ sheets, teacher guides, and discussion questions for use in classrooms. The videos will allow peers to better understand and support their food allergic classmates.
Nutphree's Bakery
Great place to shop for nut free bakery! It is 100% Peanut & Tree Nut Free!
Are Plant-Based and Non-Meat Diets on the Rise in your State?
Check out this piece and other blog posts on OWYN Stories!
Peanuttees: A Message On Covid-19
As a small home based company, the health and safety of their customers, has always been and will continue to be a top priority. During this time, Peanuttees will remain open for business and will be following the CDC recommendations and guidelines, including social distancing and hand washing. Thank you for the continued support and for raising awareness of food allergies!
The SAFE + FAIR Food Company Announcement
Here at Safe + Fair, safety is our top, which is why we are choosing to speak up. Stopping the COVID-19 virus will undoubtedly require advanced science and medicine, but of equal importance is unity and partnership from each and everyone one of us. We believe our country is at its best when we treat each other Safe + Fair.
The Safe and Fair Food Company's Featured Product Bundle
There's something for everyone! Get 'em all: Blueberry Cinnamon Granola, Birthday Cake Granola, Double Chocolate Brownie Mix, Hickory BBQ Pea Protein Chips, Sea Salt Pea Protein Chips, Sweet & Salty Kettle Popcorn Quinoa Chips.
Safely Delicious Mocha Bites
Mocha Bites® is a sweet & crunchy snack bite, made with a kick of coffee and chocolate.  It is FREE of the Top 11 Food Allergens (Wheat, Dairy, Peanut, Tree Nuts, Soy, Egg, Fish, Shellfish, Sesame, Mustard, Sulfites), gluten-free, vegan, low sodium, excellent source of iron, cholesterol-free, and have NO artificial colors, artificial flavors or preservatives.
The Easter 2020 Edition of the Safe Snack Guide has Arrived with Many Options to Order Online!
This edition has an entire section devoted to Easter-themed treats, all of which are peanut and tree nut-free, many of which are free of the Top 8 allergens, and most of which are available to order on-line and have delivered to your home.
Stock your Pantries With These Special Offers!
Food allergy families are no stranger to the vigilance of keeping our families safe. Spokin has compiled over a dozen special offers and discounts from verified allergy-friendly brands. They've also rounded up a selection of pantry-friendly recipes.
"This is what I know..." by Susan Tatelli
Whole & Free Foods
Whole & Free Foods is making it easier for everyone to eat with the people they love - regardless of dietary restrictions or preferences. Their new line of Every Body Eat snack thins are delicious and reported to be quite addicting! Every Body Eat products are full of the flavors you want, and free of the stuff you don't (including the top 14 food allergens + corn). Based in Evanston, IL, Every Body Eat products are made in their own facility that is free from the top 14 +corn.
CPR and Anaphylaxis: Your preparation to respond
Anaphylactic shock is a serious and potentially fatal condition that could be triggered by anything in the surrounding environment. A CPR training course can help you identify the signs of anaphylaxis and provide you with the necessary skills to combat a severe allergic reaction to save a life. 

Bring education and awareness to your community, and empower your friends and family how to respond during a life-threatening emergency.  
 
Contact  info@nationalwellnesssolutions.com  to schedule a CPR class brought to you with an American Heart Association Instructor today!
Chicagoland Information
Center for Food Allergy and Asthma Research
Previously SOAAR, the Center for Food Allergy and Asthma Research (CFAAR) is at the frontlines of groundbreaking research and provides education resources to the allergy community. The latest of their monthly newsletters focuses on COVID-19 and provides at-home activity ideas.
The Food Allergy Experience
Written by Dr. Ruchi Gupta and Denise Bunning, The Food Allergy Experience provides a reliable source of information and advice in simple, easy-to-read terms. For those contending with food allergies, the book offers guidance and invaluable perspective. For friends, relatives, health care providers, teachers, and caregivers, the book will instill a better understanding of how food allergies impact life at home, at school, and in the community, helping them to more effectively assist children with food allergies. 
Riya Jain
Special thanks to 13 year-old Riya, an eighth grader who created a phenomenal cartoon video that was showcased at the 2019 FACES Conference.
Dr. Pongracic Receives Distinguished Clinician Award
Jacqueline Pongracic, MD, Division Head of Allergy and Immunology at Lurie Children’s, was named as one of two recipients of the 2020 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Distinguished Clinician Award. This award is presented in recognition of significant clinical contributions and impact on the field, particularly in the areas of patient care in asthma and food allergy, as well as leadership in training of clinicians in Allergy and Immunology.
Early Peanut Introduction to Prevent Peanut Allergy
The Division also has a special fast-track clinic to evaluate babies who are at risk for peanut allergy (severe/ difficult to control eczema OR known egg allergy). This clinic is based upon the recommendations from the LEAP study to assess whether at-risk babies have allergy antibody to peanut and whether they should start consuming it to prevent the development of peanut allergy. 
For new appointments, please call  1-800-KIDS-DOC and ask for the LEAP clinic.

Clinical Trials Currently Recruiting
Moderate to Severe Eczema: Dr. Anna Fishbein is looking for patients with moderate to severe eczema for a research study. If you have moderate to severe eczema and are between the ages of 15-25 years old, you may qualify to participate in a sleep research study conducted by Feinberg and Lurie Children's. In the study you wear a watch that monitors your sleep for a week. If you qualify, you then stay for 2 nights and 3 days at Feinberg to monitor sleep and eczema. If you are interested in more information about this study please email  eczema@luriechildrens.org


Asthma Prevention: We are recruiting toddlers for an NIH-sponsored asthma prevention study, Preventing Asthma in High Risk Kids. To learn more about this study, please check out  https://youtu.be/PQrdNB7lM5U   or go to www.clinicaltrials.gov.
We are recruiting pre-school children for several other clinical trials, including food allergy clinical trials for peanut allergy, both oral immunotherapy and epicutaneous (skin patch) immunotherapy. If you are interested in learning more about these studies, please contact the research office at Lurie Children's at Allergyresearchnurse@luriechildrens.org  or call us at  312-227-6474 .
A big thank you and congratulations to Christine Szychlinski, APN, CPNP on her retirement!
Current Study Recruiting Peanut-Allergic Children
UChicago Medicine is currently recruiting for the Safety and Efficacy Study of Viaskin Peanut. The study aims to assess the safety and efficacy of Viaskin Peanut to induce desensitization to peanut in peanut-allergic children 1 to 3 years of age after a 12-month treatment by EPicutaneous ImmunoTherapy (EPIT).
COVID-19 Information
Visit this link for more information on how to donate PPE, homemade masks and medical supplies or more information on COVID-19 by University of Chicago doctors.
Importance of Gut Bacteria
New research, led by Dr. Cathy Nagler and Dr. Roberto Berni Canani, shows that healthy infants have intestinal bacteria that prevent the development of food allergies.
Congratulations to Cathryn Nagler, Ph.D from The University of Chicago!
Dr. Nagler was named as one of Crain's Chicago Business Notable Women in Health Care for 2019 and was selected as a 2020 Distinguished Fellow of the American Association of Immunologists. This award recognizes members for distinguished careers and outstanding scientific contributions as well as their service to AAI and the immunology community. It honors active, long term members( 25 or more years) who have demonstrated one or more of the following: excellence in research accomplishment in the field of immunology; exceptional leadership to the immunology community in academia, foundations, nonprofits, industry or government at a national international level; notable distinction as an educator. Election as a Distinguished Fellow is among the highest honors bestowed by AAI. Congratulations Dr. Nagler!
Clinical Trials
Unfortunately, all clinical trial recruitment and bench research is temporarily on hold considering the current crisis, but will be restarting as soon as possible. Anyone interested can still enroll in the online Asthma and Allergy research registry at the following link.
Introducing: Affinity Practice
Dr. Rhian Morcott is a board-certified psychiatrist in Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent
Psychiatry with over twenty years of experience, who recently opened a private practice, Affinity
Practice, in Lake Bluff, IL. She provides personalized care with comprehensive treatment approaches including talk therapy, medications, integrative and lifestyle interventions. We are excited to share her information as a resource to our MOCHA community. For further inquires, please reach out with the contact information below.
Tamara Hubbard, MA, LCPC, a clinical counselor in private practice in northern IL, often works with those managing food allergies, especially parents/caregivers. With an emphasis on empowerment and resilience, she focuses on helping people understand their own thoughts, feelings and behaviors related to living with food allergies. Interactive worksheets-- such as the Food Allergy Thinking Traps Worksheet-- are useful tools for adults, parents, older kids/teens, and even medical professionals and mental healthcare providers to share with their patients.
College Corner

College Corner was created by Hannah Safron and John Kosner.
Hannah Safron
  • Freshman (19 years old)
  • University and Major: University of Illinois at Chicago, Public Health

Do you have tips for transitioning back to living at home during the COVID-19 crisis?
  • It's been helpful for me to retain some sort of structure during this period of online classes. I have found consistency in waking up at the same time every day and making sure I find time to walk outside every day (while practicing safe, social distancing!).
How are you dealing with ordering or grocery shopping during COVID-19 outbreak?
  • My family has been limiting the number of trips we take to the grocery store and we plan to utilize the pick-up option more often. We're sticking to brands we know to avoid taking risks at a time like this. The goal is always to avoid trips to the hospital, especially during COVID-19, where hospitals already have so much on their plate.


You can connect with me on Spokin @ hsafron.
John Kosner
  • Sophomore (20 years old)
  • University and Major: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Molecular and Cellular Biology

Do you have tips for transitioning back to living at home during the COVID-19 crisis?
  • In terms of allergies, I have made sure to keep the snacks I know I can have in a spot just for me. My family members do not have any allergies, so it gives me a chance to have some snacks while they have their non-allergy friendly snacks. I've made sure to face-time friends as well as make an at home workout to have some sort of a routine. All my classes have turned to online so that has been tough but it is keeping me busy. The good thing about my allergies is that I have a built in diet so luckily I will be eating healthy during this pandemic. It is all about the little victories.
How are you dealing with ordering or grocery shopping during COVID-19 outbreak?
  • Being back from college has been nice since my family already eats mostly like my own allergies. Due to COVID-19, my parents have been making most of the grocery store trips so I have been writing on a list the ingredients I need for my meals. I have had to be extra cautious when reading ingredients even on brands I have had before since it would be an awful time to have a reaction. I have only eaten out at a restaurant once during the current crisis. I made sure it was at a restaurant I have ordered from countless times, told them my exact allergies and that they are life threatening. Make sure to stay safe!
You can connect with me on Spokin @ johnkoz92
Spokin's Top Rated Colleges
 College is a transformative time in every young adult’s life, and luckily there are many schools who take food allergies as seriously as their students' futures. Spokin users have shared over 150 reviews for colleges nationwide. See the 20 Top Rated allergy-friendly schools to make college application season just a little bit easier.
Dining Hall Free of the 'Big 8'
Serving increasing numbers of students with allergies, University of North Texas joins Michigan State in offering a dining hall free of the most common food allergens.
A Message to Your High Schooler or College Student
Are roommates, friends, classmates, and professors aware of food allergy needs? Find tips and important reminders for your child as they navigate the challenges of greater independence.
Save the Date
**Most of these events are tentative amidst current COVID-19 concerns. Save the date and keep posted for updates! Stay at home for April and May!**
FARE Contains: Courage Summit 2020
The 2020 Summit is coming to Orlando, Florida and will be held at the beautiful JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes!
Check out the highlights from the 2019 Contains: Courage Summit!
Friday, October 2, 2020 - Sunday, October 4, 2020
Join us Oct. 2-4, 2020, for the FARE Contains: Courage® Summit as we bring together teens and adults living with food allergy along with family members, health professionals, and others, for a weekend of community and support. Fill out the form to be the first to know when registration opens!
Camp Blue Spruce
Falls City, Oregon
August 16 - August 22, 2020
Camp Blue Spruce is a worry free camp for kids with food allergies, organized by a highly qualified team of medical advisors, parents of children with food allergies, cooks and nutritionists, camp professionals and communications professionals.

UPDATE : As Camp Blue Spruce prepares for summer camp, they are reinforcing precautionary health procedures and closely monitoring the situation as it develops.

In the meantime, the spring session for Allergy Pals & Allergy Allies begins the week of April 5th. This is an online peer mentoring program that builds community and it’s a great way to spend an hour a week while you’re sheltering in place!
Peanut Sensitive Days at Great American Ball Park
Cincinnati, Ohio
Tuesday, July 7, 2020
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
Batter up! FAACT has partnered with Cincinnati Reds to offer three peanut-sensitive games again this year. Seating will be in the Cincinnati Bell Technology Pavilion in center field. All three games will be held in the private, enclosed, and newly renovated nut-free suite.
FAACT's Leadership Summit 2020
Oak Brook, IL
Wednesday, September 23 - Thursday, September 24, 2020
This is a complimentary, two-day event dedicated to building collaborative communities that share a passion for raising awareness and preparedness of people with life-threatening allergies for FAACT-recognized support group leaders, parent advocates, and school nurses. Registration opens in February!
Mary H. Weiser Food Allergy Center: An Evening of Advocacy
Bloomfield Hills, MI
Thursday, September 24, 2020
The Mary H. Weiser Food Allergy Center Spring Luncheon has raised funds and awareness for this important cause. This year, the luncheon has evolved into a fall event with an exciting new format.
MOCHA Cares
Amidst the COVID-19 emergency, our inboxes and newsfeeds are flooded with updates on the progression of this pandemic. With the coronavirus constantly on our mind while we are social distancing, it is common to have feelings of isolation, fear, or hopelessness. We've created MOCHA Cares to be a refreshing section of positivity. We hope that at least one of these resources can inspire you to find peace, be inspired, or try something new!
Be Inspired:
As many of us switch to online orders during this time, consider supporting a charity as you shop. Start at smile.amazon.com , select a charity such as FARE, and Amazon will donate 0.5% of your eligible AmazonSmile purchases.
Nataly Kogan shares free webinars, pep talks, and weekly inspiration to help you practice emotional health skills and find moments of ease, joy, and connection throughout this challenging time.
The Emmy-nominated preschool show, 'Miss Persona', made a three-minute YouTube video to to help kids understand the COVID-19 virus and ease any fear or sadness they have.

Yale's most popular course is called the Science of Well-Being, but often described as the 'happiness' course. It's now available for free through Coursera !
With Broadway HD, you can stream your favorite broadway hit anytime. Start a 7 day free trial here !
For children and families, have some fun with free coloring pages of famous Van Gogh masterpieces. Simply download and print any pieces of the collection , and get straight to work.
From Denise's bulletin board:
Her favorite poem from Ralph Emerson!
Although gyms may be closed, you can still exercise from home! Check out this article to find online workouts you can do from home.
With Google Arts and Culture , you can tour your favorite Chicago attractions such as the Adler Planetarium and the Art Institute of Chicago, or landmarks across the world!
19 Positive Words Starting with a C:
Cake
Call
Calm
Care
Cartoon
Celebrate
Cherish
Chicago
Children
Clean
Coffee
Comedy
Comfort
Community
Compliment
Contains Courage
Cool
Cooking
Country
Watch this very educational video on how soap kills the coronavirus!
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We're a One-Stop Shop for All Things Allergies!
We've compiled research, articles, educational resources, and more. If you're new to the food allergy community, visit our What Do I Do Now? page. Looking for helpful links? Check out our Resources page. Be sure to sign up for our ENews!
Suggestions?
Do you have a suggestion about content we should add to our ENews or Website? Please let us know! We are not on social media, but we respond to every email that we receive.
Contact Us!
Denise@MOCHAllergies.org
afieldthomp@aol.com
Non-Allergic Food for Thought:

The world is not free of Milk, Egg, Tree Nut, Shellfish,
Peanut, Fish, Soy, Wheat, Seeds.
It is our job as parents to give our children the
Education,
Encouragement,
Experience and
Enthusiasm
To get out there and live their lives to the fullest - safely.
MOCHA is a group of parents sharing information and supporting each other. MOCHA offers support, education, and friendship, to help make managing your child’s food allergies just a little bit easier. Check out our website for the most current news and resources. Click the sign up link above to be added to our email distribution!
Disclaimer : M.O.C.H.A. is not a professional or medical organization. It is a group of parents sharing information and supporting each other. The discussions, meeting minutes, handouts, speakers, agendas, and other products of our support group do not constitute medical and/or legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Always discuss individual health questions and medical issues with a qualified personal physician.