Welcome to the MOCHA Fall 2020 ENews! |
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A Message to Our MOCHA Friends: |
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Our continued thoughts and prayers go out to the entire food allergy community. We hope your families and friends stay safe and healthy as we all adjust to a more "virtual" life of school, work and hopefully some safe fun too! We are ALL in this together. As always, please reach out if you have suggestions or ideas on how we can help make the MOCHA ENEWS better.
With appreciation and gratitude,
Denise and Anne
Denise@MOCHAllergies.org
Afieldthomp@aol.com
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FAACT's Teal Love Shines Bright: Food Allergy Summit 2020
FAACT’s Teal Love Shines Bright: Food Allergy Summit is for parents, caregivers, adults with food allergies, school nurses, and more!
Join us virtually on September 12, 2020 from 10am – 5:30pm EST (with a break from 1p-1:30p EST).
Registration Fee: $50 (includes FAACT materials and swag mailed to your home).
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FARE Contains: Courage Research Retreat 2020
Mon. Sept. 21 and Tues. Sept. 22.
FARE is excited to share its first-ever virtual Contains: Courage® Research RetreatIn the past, this event was for food allergy researchers, but this year it includes general sessions for the community. We're happy to announce a special guest appearance by Dr. Anthony Fauci, Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
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FARE Online Events and Webinars: Back to School
September 23 and September 30
Register for upcoming online events to understand the laws and cases that govern food allergy accommodations in K-12 schools (September 23) and in colleges and universities (September 30).
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FAACT's Leadership Summit 2020
FAACT's Leadership Summit (Virtual)
Friday, September 25 through Saturday, September 26, 2020
FAACT Support Group Leadership Summit 2020 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.Registration Packets will be emailed to FAACT-recognized support group leaders.
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FARE Connecticut Connection
A Virtual Gathering on Nov 10 at 7:00pm EDT
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The Connecticut Fall Luncheon has always played a vital role in enabling FARE to invest in promising therapies, develop life-changing initiatives and advocate on behalf of the 32 million children and adults with food allergies. |
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US Asthma Summit 2020
Join us virtually on Friday, November 13
Allergy & Asthma Network and the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) are pleased to invite you to the 2020 USAsthma Summit. Join us for an engaging half-day event to discuss the state of asthma in the United States, asthma health disparities and the growth of telemedicine. Get the latest updates on national and international asthma guidelines and share lessons learned and best practices from national and community programs.
Registration opens August 31, 2020.
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FARE: Food Allergy Research and Education |
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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 Recently posted a Back to School Headquarters- a toolkit for parents, students, and teachers. Click below to read!
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MOCHA Talk: Back to school with food allergies
Grab a cup of coffee or tea and join us for the first episode of "MOCHA Talk", a new series from FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education)!
In this episode, you'll hear from four incredible food allergy mothers (including Denise Bunning, founder of MOCHA!) as they discuss what going back to school (or not) is like for children with food allergies in the age of COVID-19.
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FARE Teal Pumpkin Project
Raising awareness of food allergies through the addition of non-food trinkets and toys to your treats, making Halloween safer and more inclusive for all trick or treaters.
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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.
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FARE Webinars: Navigating Early Childhood and Food Allergies
Dr. Ruchi Gupta and Sarah Valaika co-lead "Navigating Early Childhood & Food Allergies", a FARE webinar that is accessible to all! Do you live or work with an infant, toddler or preschool-aged child? Does this child have a food allergy or a friend with a food allergy? Watch these webinars linked down below to find out more about resources to help!
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Baby's First: Reduce the Risk of Food Allergies
FARE announced the launch of a new resource geared at raising awareness of the benefits of introducing a variety of a new resource geared at raising awareness of the benefits of introducing a variety of new foods to babies and educating people on how they might be able to help reduce the risk of developing food allergies.
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FARE: Patient Registry
FARE wants to invite you to participate in an exciting study researchers from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine are conducting to explore the thoughts, emotions and coping strategies individuals and families have and use as they manage food allergies. The goal of this research is to both identify the coping strategies those living with food allergy currently face. If you are living with a food allergy, or are a caregiver of someone who has a food allergy, FARE would greatly appreciate your participation! (Please note, you must be 18 years or older to participate in this survey.)
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Recognizing and Responding to Anaphylaxis
Free online training course.
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Epinephrine Options
Learn about epinephrine options currently available on the market.
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Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency Care Plan
FARE's Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency Care Plan has been updated to include SYMJEPI.
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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.
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Research, Newsletters and Blogs |
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Food Allergy Helpers (Brand New!)
Created in part by one of MOCHA’s very own student-interns, Food Allergy Helpers is a one-stop shop for everything food allergies. Includes a blog, allergy-friendly recipes, and product reviews. Many items and recipes are gluten-free, egg-free, and more.
Created for the food allergy community.
Blog Posts:
We really appreciate your support!
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Allergic Child
With over 20 years of experience of dealing with all aspects of food allergies, we are your premier resource for managing food allergies. We truly understand what it takes to live with food allergies and how it affects everyday life. We understand the challenges of being with family, in school, and in all aspects of life. We can help your child be included and stay safe with food allergies.
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Allergic Living Free COVID-19 & Allergies Special Edition
This must-read resource directly addresses pandemic issues vital to the allergy community. You'll find: advice for finding allergy-friendly foods, allergy-safe cleaning tips, superb Top 9-free recipes and articles on finding "our new normal." Plus, leading experts weigh in on pandemic food allergy and asthma concerns..
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COVID-19 and Food in the Class: What Allergy Families Need to Know
For most parents, the top-of-mind issue is keeping their kids safe from coronavirus exposure. Challenging school situations will include how to keep a room of 6- or 7-year-olds "physically distanced." But food allergy families have an additional layer of concern
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The Second Brain: Our Microbiome
Did you know that there are more bacteria in your gut than cells in your entire body?! Although many people associate bacteria with disease, the majority of the microbes living ON us and IN us are actually beneficial! They help us digest our food, provide key nutrients, and protect us against infection. Since a lot of the foods we consume today were foreign to our bodies just a century ago, some experts think that the rise in food allergies and intolerances can be attributed to the introduction of these foreign compounds—our bodies simply can’t handle them!
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The Psychological Impact of Food Allergies: COVID and Beyond
For the food allergy community, the number of scenarios that could pose potential health risks fluctuates daily. Each encounter with food requires planning and preparation, which can significantly impact a child’s social life. Negative experiences children have had in the past due to their food allergies—or the possibility of future food-related issues—can also lead to anxiety around food.
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The Importance of Introducing Food Allergens To Your Baby—Even During A Pandemic
We recently had an opportunity to chat with Dr. Wendy Sue Swanson, a pediatrician, author, mom, and Chief Medical Officer at SpoonfulOne. She has devoted much of her career to food allergy prevention efforts while bridging the information gap between parents and doctors to drive education around the importance of introducing allergenic foods to infants to help prevent food allergies.
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Ask the Allergist: How to Help Teenagers Transition to Asthma and Allergy Self-Care
Dr. Don Bukstein advises parents on how to get their adolescent or teen to take on more responsibility of managing their allergies or asthma.
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Allergies and Asthma at School
What must schools and parents do to prepare students with allergies and asthma for school? Read the full guide, which includes informational videos, resources, and graphics. Parents should begin obtaining medication permission forms, prescriptions for medication to leave at school, etc.
COVID-19 resources can also be found on the page.
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AAAAI 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!
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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.
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APFED Summer 2020 EOSolutions Newsletter is Now Available |
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Hand-Washing Vs. Hand Sanitizers in the Fight Against COVID-19
Keeping your hands clean is vital as the new coronavirus continues to spread. What's the best way to keep your hands clean? Learn about proper hand-cleaning techniques, safe and unsafe hand sanitizers, and a fun way to make sure you are getting your hands clean.
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Camp Blue Spruce: Allergy Pals and Allies
We are delighted to share that Camp Blue Spruce on the Loose was a great success! All of the programming was virtual AND the camp connections were still there, especially during our daily cabin time, where campers hung out with their friends and wonderful counselors. We experienced many moments of camp magic where you could forget that we were sharing time through a screen.
Read full letter for Fall opportunities!
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FDA-Approved Drug Reverses Inflammation in Animal Model of Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Scientists at Cincinnati Children's have discovered that an imbalance of specific proteins, proteases and protease inhibitors in cells lining the esophagus may cause inflammation and tissue damage in people.
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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).
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Progress Update for Eosinophilic Disorder Research
Want to know more about "How Does Covid-19 Affect People with EOE?" along with a recap of some of the progress being made against a severe form of food-related allergy?
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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.
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Know Your Rights: Heading Back to School During COVID-19
Back-to-School is one of the most stressful times of the year for families with food allergies. And, this has never been more true than this year in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the CDC’s recommendation that meals be consumed in the classroom to avoid large student populations in cafeterias. FAACT has been actively advocating for students with food allergies and educating families on the rights of these students to safely and equally participate in school activities alongside non-allergic students, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. For questions or more information, please contact FAACT's VP of Civil Rights Advocacy, Amelia.Smith @FoodAllergyAwareness.org.
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Food Allergy Fund
Highlights of their first summit include hearing from leading doctors and researchers from around the world, an informative discussion on the psycho-social impact of food allergies especially in these challenging times and much more!
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Food Allergy Moms
Food Allergy Moms (FAM) is a Chicago support group that is all about improving the lives of food allergy families through social connection. During the pandemic, FAM has gone from meeting in the city for dinner and drinks to meeting online over Zoom! Whether virtual or in-person, meetups are always centered around two discussion topics: one about food allergies and one about our lives in general, so everyone can truly get to know each other as multi-dimensional people.
If you are looking to find more friends who really get it, go to their website and message Melissa to get involved.
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Food Allergy P.I.
I’m a food allergy mom to a homeschooling, traveling, Disneyland loving, foodie family. Caring for a son with anaphylactic food allergies to peanut and shellfish, as well as helping my husband manage fibromyalgia related gluten intolerance.
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Food Equality Initiative
Food Equality Initiative is a nonprofit organization that relies on generous partners to meet their mission of improving health and ending hunger in individuals who must eliminate common foods from their diet to maintain health.
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Grateful Foodie
Speaker, Food Allergy Industry Consultant
Let's talk real life resources, learning, and finding solutions regarding life threatening food allergies, anaphylaxis, and asthma.
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Pandemic Pondering: A Daily Blog
The new daily blog by Dr. Jim Baker highlights why fluctuations in reported numbers may not indicate a true increase in coronavirus infections, hospitalizations or deaths.
In one of his recent blog entries Dr. Baker discusses that "Yes. Bars are fueling COVID-19 outbreaks." He weighs in with other professionals to assess the role and future of bars in America.
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Sarah Ackerman: Girl Behind the Hive
Sarah Ackerman's new blog post talks about "Food Allergies Post COVID-19". She discusses learning to take everything a day at a time and not wasting all of her time worrying about the next day, month, or year.
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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 is "Saying YES!" where she shares how she said yes more this summer and spent two months exploring the west with her family. Read more below!
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Journal of Food Allergy
This is an online journal which has the purpose of all things food allergy news.
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Kids With Food Allergies Newsletter
Kids With Food Allergies provide information about for allergies for kids and their parents. This newsletter includes news about allergy and asthma awareness, new research, great recipes and food allergy recalls.
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Latitude Food Allergy Care
Redwood City, California
This clinic focuses 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.
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Mary H. Weiser Food Allergy Center
The Mary H. Weiser Food Allergy Center has successfully completed its first five years and is embarking on its next phase as a multi-disciplinary research hub. The annual report linked below details recent faculty and research accomplishments, five year milestones and forward-looking strategy for the future.
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MedicAlert Foundation Announces Partnership
Medic Alert Foundation is partnering with the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America and Kids with Food Allergies. Together, they will raise awareness of asthma and anaphylaxis and provide tools and resources for better living!
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Natalie Giorgi Sunshine Foundation
The Natalie Giorgi Sunshine Foundation was created to reduce dangerous food allergy deaths by spreading public awareness, providing education regarding emergency responses, and increasing the availability of epinephrine injectors in public places. Recently, the Natalie Giorgi Sunshine Act was signed into law.
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Food Allergy Friendly Companies, Apps, Books and Videos |
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Sean N. Parker Center for Food Allergy & Asthma Research Newsletter
Read below the 2020 Annual Report which covers research at Stanford University, immunotherapy outcome, EoE and health in general!
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The End of Food Allergy
A new book from Stanford allergy expert Dr. Kari Nadeau and New York Times bestselling author Sloan Barnett, 'The End of Food Allergy,' provides the science behind preventing, delaying and ending food allergies. By reading this innovative book, you will gain research-based knowledge about essential topics, such as the ins and outs of immunotherapy, where to find food allergy treatment, and whether treatment is the right decision for you.
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Special thanks to Ria Jain for creating our Fall MOCHA ENEWS graphic! |
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Divvies
If you want vegan, nut-free, egg-free and dairy free treats, Divvies is the you want to go to!
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Eat Right
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is your source for science-based food and nutrition information.
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88 Acres: Protein Bars
Busy days call for powerful snacks. Stay fueled with 12 grams of plant-based protein from whole roasted pumpkin seeds in 2 indulgent flavors.
Try both flavors for only $10 with the Protein Bar Sample Pack
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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!
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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"!
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MadeGood
Madegood started making snacks but couldn’t stop there! When you have great organic ingredients, the possibilities are deliciously endless. All of MadeGood® products are organic, vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO and free from the 8 most common kinds of allergens; peanut, tree nuts, soy, dairy, egg, fish, shellfish, gluten, and sesame.
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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"!
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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.
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Top Tips for Flying with Food Allergies
Everything you need to know about booking your flight and how to stay safe on the day of travel.
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Unlocking the Secrets of EoE
Unlocking the Secrets of Eosinophilic Esophagitis is a new children's book authored by student and faculty fellows at PA Distance Learning charter school. It follows John who lives with EoE, Kaitlyn and Andrew, who meet with classmates and experts like Dr. Marc Rothenberg to have a brave adventure on the secrets of EoE. All proceeds go toward Cincinnati Children's Hospital and the continuing efforts of Dr. Rothenberg to seek a cure for EoE.
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"This is What I Know"
"How to Stay Alive"
"Eliminando el miedo a la epinefrina y combatiendo la anafilaxia"
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Susan Tatelli is an 18-year-old who participated in an oral-immunotherapy clinical trial for her peanut allergy. Because of her participation in the clinical trial she had many epinephrine requiring anaphylactic reactions. She created these videos and her bilingual Epinephrine Readiness Training Kit to take the fear out of epinephrine and anaphylaxis. |
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During the COVID-19 crisis OWYN has taken action and donated:
Top 8 allergen free protein drink OWYN donated over 100,000 bottles to Healthcare Heroes and First Responders and Food Banks who specialize in serving those with food allergies. If you are in need and suffer from Food Allergies the following food banks are available to you below.
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Free From:
Dairy, soy, gluten / wheat, egg, peanuts or tree nuts
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SEPARATE, SANITIZE, TEST
OWYN’s contract manufacturer’s facility tests for the presence of Top 8 allergens that may have been processed in a preceding production run.
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What's Next for Safe + Fair?
Our #SafeAtHome Series is back on Instagram Live - featuring Yoga 2.0 and more!
You'll love fall's freshly picked flavor... coming soon.
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SAFE + FAIR DRIZZLED POPCORN HAS ARRIVED!
These flavors are so delicious and craveworthy, we know you’ll want more than one bag. Buy the Drizzled Popcorn Bundle and save!
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#SnackSafelyAtHome
Coupons and discounts with more added on a day-by-day basis to help you find allergy-friendly products while sheltering-in-place can be found on the link to the right!
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Looking for Delicious Dairy Free Ice Cream?
Dairy-free ice cream is the coolest trend! Whether you manage a dairy allergy or are looking for a plant based dessert, we have 37 dairy-free ice creams to choose from. Our helpful infographic is the cherry on top and the Spokin App makes getting the scoop even easier!
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Allergy-Friendly Trail Mix Guide
Everyone can be a happy camper with our Allergy-Friendly Trail Mix Guide. Whether you are new to hiking and camping or an old pro, we can all agree snacks are the best part of the trip!
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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!
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Whole & Free Foods
Light, crispy, clean and craveable, Every Body Eat™ snack thins are full of the flavors you want, and free of the stuff you don't. Each snack thin is handmade from whole food ingredients, healthy fats and no sugar. Every Body Eat™ products and facilities are always100% free from the top 14 +corn. Available on Amazon.com.
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See influencer Tabita Brown bite into an Every Body Eat™ snack thin, and “hear the crunch”! @iamtabithabrown
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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!
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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, new members and new research news!
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New Center for Food Allergy and Asthma Research Established |
Scientists from Northwestern and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago have been at the forefront of research, care and advocacy to improve these childhood and adult allergic diseases for years. Now, Northwestern has established the new Center for Food Allergy and Asthma Research, which will provide both investigators and patients more support while uncovering new discoveries from applied and basic science research.
On the CFAAR website, there is a video library of helpful informational videos pertaining to food allergies and asthma. Some videos include: Teens Talk Food Allergies, The Asthma Story, START PSA.
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Join CFAAR's Community Advisory Board! |
In collaboration with Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital and Northwestern University, CFAAR is excited to ounce the launch of the new Community Advisory Board at the Center for Food Allergy and Asthma Research (CFAAR). CFAAR is currently seeking food allergy, asthma and other food related diseases parents/families or community members interested in joining the mission.
Take a look at the link to learn more!
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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.
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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.
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Food Allergies and Reproductive Health
We invite you to participate in a research study at Northwestern University investigating whether there is a relationship between food allergies and reproductive health.
The prevalence of food allergies is increasing worldwide in both developed and developing countries, but little is known about the general health consequences of food allergies.
Please take part in a survey to help researchers understand more about the impact of food allergies. You must be a parent of children under the age of 18 (with or without food allergies). The survey will take approximately 20 minutes to complete but may take longer if you have more than one child. You are free to stop taking this survey at any time. All data are anonymous.
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Eczema Tips by Dr. Anna Fishbein
Dr. Anna Fishbein provides tips on how to care for a child's nighttime itchiness from eczema
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Lurie Children's Division of Allergy & Immunology Facebook Page |
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New Lurie Children's Division of Allergy & Immunology Resources
Follow their new Instagram page @lurie.allergyandimmunology and browse their new webpage linked below.
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Food Allergy
UChicago Comer Children's Hospital recently hosted and recorded a Facebook Live event with Chrissy Ciaccio and Timothy Sentongo on Food and Seasonal Allergies.
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GI Issues in Kids
University of Chicago Medicine Comer Children's Hospital gastrointestinal (GI) specialist Ritu Verma, MD, shares information about common GI issues, as a contributor to the podcast series "Things You're Too Embarrassed to Ask a Doctor. Dr. Verma also shares a video with information about GI symptoms and COVID-19 in kids. Topics covered: constipation, dietary suggestions, hydration and physical activity.
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UChicago Telemedicine
UChicago Medicine is now offering telemedicine visits for both new patients and follow-up patients. Telemedicine offers the convenience of consulting with a food allergy specialist from the comfort of your own home. Interested in hearing about current research or oral immunotherapy? Telemedicine may be the perfect way for you and your family to find out more, call (733)-702-1000 for the general number.
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UChicago Update
UChicago is hoping to interview parents with at least one older child having food allergy, that also have another younger child less than 2-3 years old or plan to have another child in the future. UChicago would love to hear their perspectives as they might be the first end users of a potential food allergy vaccine. Email sjcao@uchicago.edu if interested!
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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. Dr. Rhian Morcott is also a food allergy mom!
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Food allergies and mental health: It’s a family thing. Too often short shrift is given to how food allergies affects a child’s – and a family’s – mental health. Seeking therapy can help ease the anxiety and find a healthy balance that works for everyone in the family. Often times, therapists don’t understand food allergy. And parents are tired of educating
therapists about what it all means, including OIT treatment. As a family therapist, I help families navigate food allergies wherever they are in the journey. I’m thrilled to be working with children, adults, parents or the whole family on how to make food allergies more manageable.
Jennifer Solomon
Jsolomon.mft@gmail.com
224.707.1704
www.affiliatesincounseling.net
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Tamara is a family therapy-trained Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) offering support for women/moms, young adults and those navigating life transitions. She specialized in helping those managing food allergies navigating the emotional/social aspects, especially parents/caregivers. Tamara created the Food Allergy Counselor website, the Food Allergy Counselor Directory and the food allergy mental health resource page to fill an unmet need within the food allergy community. Tamara is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy for Adler School of Professional Psychology.
New Information from Tamara Hubbard
With the end of season one of the Exploring Food Allergy Families podcast nearing, have you caught up on all of the episodes yet? Here are some of the topics covered this season:
- How dads feel about food allergy parenting
- Navigating the emotions during food allergy treatments
- Moving forward after an allergic reaction
- Exploring the vulnerability of managing allergies
You can find the Exploring Food Allergy Families podcast on any podcast app, or learn more about the podcast at: www.FoodAllergyFamilies.com
Also, don't forget that the Food Allergy Counselor Directory & website offers insightful resources focused on food allergy-related anxiety, parenting, and navigating life transitions. You'll find support through blog posts, links to resources, or a listing of allergy-informed clinical therapists. Visit the FAC Directory & website at: www.FoodAllergyCounselor.com.
And if you're an IL adult or caregiver looking for support related to managing food allergies, Tamara Hubbard, LCPC offers allergy-informed counseling services, currently via telehealth. Learn more about Tamara Hubbard, LCPC at: www.TamaraHubbardLCPC.com
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Intern Intersection was created by Susan Tatelli, Julia Auerbach, Pranav Bajaj, Ryan Smith and John Kosner. |
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Susan Tatelli
- College Freshman (18 years old)
- University and Major: College of William & Mary, Education and Hispanic Studies
You can connect with me on Spokin @susan_tatelli or email at susan@tatelli.com
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For the Summer:
Over the summer I took online ASL classes with my sister, had socially distanced picnics with friends, taught virtual Spanish tutoring sessions, and prepared to leave for college.
For the Fall:
I just moved onto campus and am hoping to get to stay here for the rest of the semester. All my classes are virtual with the exception of a few that meet in person a few times a month. I joined the W&M Figure Skating team and the Rainbow Coalition club and hope that those activities can return to normal soon.
Food Allergies:
I am allergic to peanuts, pistachios, hazelnuts, and soy.
What is Helping Us:
During this challenging time me and my friends have stayed in touch through regular Zoom game nights. I feel like this is a really important time for people to make sure they do things that they enjoy. For me that is reading, eating good food, making art, and taking Spin classes.
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Julia Auerbach
- High School Senior (17 years old)
- Francis W. Parker High School
You can connect with me on email at julia.auerbach@yahoo.com
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For the Summer:
This summer I was also a CFAAR summer in intern and am incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to learn so much this summer! Aside from learning about food allergies, and public health research, I have spent a lot of time playing tennis, babysitting and preparing for my Senior tennis season!
For the Fall:
As of now, I am excited to be doing school from my bedroom beginning in mid September. I am going to be a Senior at Francis W. Parker school and am currently working hard on my college applications!
Food Allergies:
Although I do not have an anaphylactic food allergy, I do have Celiac Disease which requires me to maintain a strict gluten-free diet and means that one invisible crumb can spark a severe immune reaction.
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Pranav Bajaj
- College Sophomore (19 years old)
- University and Major: Northwestern University, Pre-med and Economics
You can connect with me on email at pranavbajaj2023@u.northwestern.edu
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For the Summer:
I was involved in a research internship at CFAAR for these past few months. It was a great learning experience, which I am very grateful for. I learned a lot about food allergies and the proper ways to conduct research. Outside of research, I have spent a lot of time outside playing socially-distanced sports, including golf and tennis.
For the Fall:
Since all of my classes will be conducted virtually, I will be studying from home for the fall. I hope to continue working with the CFAAR team as well.
Food Allergies:
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Ryan Smith
- High School Senior (17 years old)
- Glenbrook North High School
You can connect with me on email at ryanskate29@gmail.com
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For the Summer:
This summer I was also a CFAAR summer in intern for my second year in a row which was an incredibly rewarding experience. In addition, I took a public health course, ran a COVID-safe day camp, and baked a ton!
For the Fall:
As of now, I'll be E-learning for the semester. I'm looking forward to leading the Medical Club and Speech Team at my high school as well as continuing to figure skate. In my spare time, you can find me in my kitchen baking!
Food Allergies:
I'm allergic to all tree nuts except almonds. I love to bake allergy friendly treats and I share my recipes on my food instagram @hungrythings!
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John Kosner
- College Junior (20 years old)
- University and Major: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Molecular and Cellular Biology - English
You can contact with me on Spokin: johnkoz92 or email jkosner2@illinois.edu
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For the Summer:
This summer, as many of the other interns, I was also a CFAAR intern. While I had a good understanding of concepts relating to the biological aspect of respect, the internship really opened my eyes to how to perform research through a public health lens. Along with CFAAR, I volunteered at a crisis text hotline which was very rewarding. Of course I was a MOCHA intern as well. My backpacking vacation in Colorado was also a great way to get away from a lot of the COVID worries.
For the Fall:
For right now I will be taking all my courses online. Along with courses, I will continue researching with CFAAR, volunteering for the crisis hotline, volunteer in my town and of course be a MOCHA Intern.
Food Allergies:
I'm allergic to milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts and sesame. I love cooking so many of my recipes cook not only for my allergies but for my families as well.
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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! |
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Be Inspired- Suggested by MOCHA Interns: |
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In light of the current unprecedented times and the overwhelming anxiety about sending kids back to school, take a few minutes to watch this video! |
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Scrolling a little too much on Netflix? Need a new show to binge? Master of None is one of my favorite shows of all time and it's so good that you'll be done with the series within two days.
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Take 2 minutes and watch a really impactful RSA short with Dr. Brené Brown on the difference between empathy and sympathy.
(Picture is from linked video)
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With everything going on currently, reading "Letter from a Birmingham Jail" by Dr. Martin Luther King, which speaks clearly about many of the issues happening right now, will be a very important and motivating read.
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Beacon doughnuts is the perfect way to brighten your day! Their doughnuts are absolutely incredible and they happen to all be vegan as well. Check out their website to learn how you can satisfy your sweet tooth!
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New to MOCHA?
Want to be part of our next ENews?
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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!
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Suggestions?
Do you have a suggestion about content we should add to our ENews or Website? Please let us know! Connect with us on facebook @MOCHAallergies
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Contact Us!
Denise@MOCHAllergies.org
afieldthomp@aol.com
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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.
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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! |
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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.
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