Welcome to the MOCHA Winter 2020-2021 ENews!
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A Message to Our MOCHA Friends: |
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Anne shares:
I can't remember a year more challenging for so many than 2020. Thinking of the challenges people are experiencing reminded me, in some ways, of when my son was diagnosed with food allergies. My son's first reaction threw my world upside down and my dreams and hopes for my newly born son seemed to evaporate. I was distraught over the fact his life would never be like most other children; I thought he would never have something as simple as a birthday cake or a "normal" birthday. However, the fears and the anxiety that came with his diagnosis slowly melted away as I adjusted to our family's "new normal" of living with food allergies. In fact, as time moved on there were many blessings that came from my son living with food allergies and I found many "silver linings: from our new path. Denise and I never would have met, 24 years of friendship and accomplishments never would have happened and our family would not have gained the courage and strength it takes to live with food allergies. I certainly never expected all the "silver linings" that came out of what once felt so hopeless. So as families struggle in these challenging times with finances, illness, mental health concerns, schooling... Denise, I, and the MOCHA Interns; John, Pranav, Susan, Julia and Ryan hope that this holiday season brings you an abundance of "silver linings."
HELP US - HELP YOU
Do you know of a helpful food allergy link, video, company, organization that we should include in our next ENEWS? Please let us know! We try to include NEW helpful information that our readers have suggested in our quarterly communication, and our Facebook posts. We CARE about YOU!
STAY SAFE!
With appreciation and gratitude,
Denise and Anne
Denise@MOCHAllergies.org
Afieldthomp@aol.com
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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 Winter Holidays Guide - tips, tricks, and recipes to make your holiday teal and tasty. Click below to read!
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MOCHA Talk:
Grab a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa and join us for the first few episodes of "MOCHA Talk", a new series from FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education)!
In this series, you'll hear from four incredible food allergy guests (including Denise Bunning, founder of MOCHA!) as they discuss monthly allergy topics.
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Celebrating Christmas with a Food Allergy |
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FARE's Guide to the COVID-19 Vaccine
A primer on mRNA COVID vaccines, Dr. Thomas Casale answers some common concerns and questions.
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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's "Your Guide to Food Allergy"
Is a new video highlight key information for newly diagnosed.
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Impact Report
2020 FARE Impact Report
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Calling All Teens!
FARE is thrilled to be launching Teen Talks, a new programming initiative exclusively for young people (ages 11+) with food allergies. This will allow teens with food allergies, from all across the country, to connect in real-time. Teen Talks will vary in content but will always be interactive, social and fun! They will be facilitated by Melissa Engel, MA, a Clinical Psychology PhD student who lives with several food allergies. Teen Talks will kick off with a special Teal Out on Saturday, January 23rd from 5-6 pm EST. Come in your best teal attire and ready to talk with other teens! Ready to join?! Sign up here. Attendees will be e-mailed a Zoom link prior to the event! Questions? E-mail Melissa at mengel@foodallergy.org. Hope to see you there!
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Volunteers Needed for TAG (Teen Advisory Group) Project
FARE Teen Advisory Group (TAG) members collect data on how schools are feeding students with food allergies amidst the pandemic. The Food Allergies and Food Insecurity (FAFI) policy scan originated from a project working with food banks to increase access to safe foods for those with food allergies. When COVID-19 was declared a pandemic, the project was reworked to document school districts’ meal program accommodations for food-insecure students with food allergies.
Using pre-made email templates and state-specific spreadsheets, volunteers research and record districts’ information. FAFI is currently focusing on Connecticut and California and hopes to begin data collecting in the Northwest U.S. soon. You do not need to live in one of the states being studied. A policy scan in North Carolina is now complete, and the information is being used by an organization there for local advocacy efforts.
Those interested in helping with the project can complete this volunteer form. FAFI also welcomes data collected by people in their own communities. To contribute data from your own district, use this form. For questions, contact FAFI at fafiteamofficial@gmail.com.
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Food Allergy Awareness Girl Scout Patch
FARE is pleased to offer Girl Scout Councils across the country its new food allergy awareness patch. The program provides Councils with free patches and a turn-key list of patch-earning activities.
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Fare College Summit
The FARE College Summit, provided free food allergy education to college foodservice professionals and took place over three days, November 4-6. The virtual event covered topics ranging from the student experience and the Americans with Disabilities Act to menu development and transparency. The recorded sessions are available for free!
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Feasting with FARE
Feeling the holiday spirit? Check out this month’s Feasting With FARE recipe, sure to complement any seasonal spread with bright and colorful allergy-friendly honey mustard vegetables. This bountiful assortment of beets, carrots, Brussels sprouts, and spinach is sure to satisfy. View this top-9-free recipe with hot, cold, vegan, vegetarian and meat-loving options!
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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 an 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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University of Michigan Mary H. Weiser Center presents Food Allergy: The Other Epidemic
Check out the virtual fundraiser featuring conversations with leading experts in food allergy research and patient care. The Weiser center conducts comprehensive bench to bedside research that will influence the quality of life of those affected by food allergies. Watch the full live stream and panel to learn more!
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Vigilance Fatigue: What Food Allergy and COVID-19 Have in Common
Dr. Sarah Boudreau-Romano discusses the many parallels between COVID-19 and food allergy precautions and measures explaining how the same hypervigilance towards food allergies are now needed to prevent COVID-19. She reminds us that just like with food allergies, we can't lower our precautions and become less vigilant about the pandemic even if we are tired.
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Allergy Amulet Research Gets Ultimate Seal of Approval: Peer Review
Allergy Amulet’s research was published in Food Chemistry, one of the nation’s leading scientific journals in food research.The article, titled “An Electrochemical Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Sensor for Rapid and Selective Food Allergen Detection,” covers a portion of our work detecting allergenic ingredients in foods. Although this paper focuses on soy, the detection method can be applied to other food allergens, toxins, and contaminants.
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Four Ways to Boost your Immune System, Naturally
Although there is no surefire way to avoid catching a cold or virus, our immune system is our best natural defense against illness. The more we build up and strengthen our immune system, the more likely we’ll successfully fend off invaders.
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Celiac Disease vs. Gluten Intolerance: What’s the Difference?
Once rare, celiac disease now affects 1 in 100 people worldwide, with the number of people affected doubling every 15 years. Unlike gluten intolerance, celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that results in damage to the small intestine. While celiac does not produce anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening allergic response that could result from, say, a wheat allergy, celiac disease can lead to severe—and potentially fatal—health complications if left untreated.
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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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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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Do you have questions about the new COVID-19 vaccines? Would you like to know more about protecting yourself from the flu and managing your asthma?
Dr. Vin Gupta will join the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) to talk about COVID-19, the flu, and managing asthma. Dr. Gupta is a trusted advisor and contributor to national and international media outlets on several of the most important health issues today. He serves as a regular health policy analyst for NBC News and MSNBC and as a contributor to the New York Times and CNN New Day.
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Camp Blue Spruce Thanks You!
Because of the incredible support of the food allergy community, Camp Blue Spruce is able to provide kids with food allergy lots of food-free fun in 2020! Kids were able to participate in "Capt Blue Spruce on the Loose," "Quarantine-O-Ween Teal Pumpkin Party," and the "Allergy Pals" program just to name a few!
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Asian Children With Food Allergies More Likely to Experience Quality of Life Challenges
Many health conditions have psychosocial impacts in children and their families. Though research into these outcomes is growing, research about disparities in outcomes often lags behind. Recently, researchers at Cincinnati Children’s have been investigating the quality of life of patients and parents related to food allergies by race and ethnicity and by socioeconomic status. They found that the effect of food allergies on quality of life was significantly more for Asian patients and parents than for patients and parents of other races and in the Medicaid population was significantly more for Black and Hispanic than White patients. These novel findings will help guide further research and interventions to reduce health disparities related to food allergy and hopefully inspire awareness of possible disparities beyond food allergy.
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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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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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Digestive Health Foundation
Our Mission: The Digestive Health Foundation generates critical resources to accelerate medical discoveries aimed at transforming digestive disease into digestive health for patients and families at Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health Center.
Visit Website to learn and see how you can help.
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Reflecting on the True Meaning of Community
In this blog post, FAACT Vice President of Community Relations Caroline Moassessi reflects on these unprecedented times and discusses the strength she has witnessed within the food allergy community. She writes that the food allergy community "showed up authentically and in full force. When someone was down, a hand miraculously reached out of nowhere". Read the rest of her heartwarming entry below.
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Food Allergy Fund Vision Summit
Friday, December 18 12:00-4:30 EST
Join the Virtual Vision Summit featuring leading doctors and scientists, policymakers, and entrepreneurs for a day of learning, raising awareness, and funding research. Speakers include Dr. Patrick Brennan, Dr. Seema Aceves, and Dr. Kari Nadeau.
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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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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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GF Mom Certified
Meet Tiffany Hinton, creator of GF Mom Certified. She is an influencer, best-selling author, super mom, and functional medicine certified health coach. This website contains delicious recipes in addition to interesting lifestyle pieces. Check it out!
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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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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 "Easy Cheesy Baked Penne" Carter shares a great meal that the whole family loved, and of course it is allergy free!
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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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MadiCooks.com
Check out one of the special guests on MOCHA TALK- Madi Cooks! She has a varirety of specialty marinades with bold flavors such as honey-bourbon glazed and pineapple-hawaiian.
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Monthly Webinars
The Mary H. Weiser Food Allergy Center also publishes monthly webinars. In the most recent one: Conversations with a Food Allergy Counselor "Getting to independent management of food allergies: tips for managing college & adult life" with Kim Menzel. Watch below!
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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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Attend the upcoming "Conversations with a Food Allergy Counselor"
Thursday, December 17 at 1pm ET via Zoom
Join food allegy counselor, Kim Menzel LMSW, ACSW as she wraps up 2020 by sharing her top-rated tools, tips and resources for individuals with food allergy & their caregivers. You'll come away with a new list of favorite things for managing emotions, building skills and becoming "careful, not fearful."
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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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Pandemic Pondering: A Daily Blog
In his most recent post, Dr. Jim Baker, founding Director of the Mary H. Weiser Food Allergy Center, responds to questions regarding the COVID-19 vaccines such as the availability of the vaccine, how to sign up for the vaccine, and if one should participate in a vaccine trial.
Make sure to stay up to date with his daily blog posts that cover all things COVID-19 and more!
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Resource on Food Allergies With Preventallergies.org
Preventallergies.org helps bridge the significant gap that currently exists between the breakthrough research on food allergy prevention and busy families struggling with at-home implementation with education, tools and DIY recipes. All of the content was developed in coordination with Ready, Set, Food!’s team of leading physicians to serve as an evidence-based and essential resource for parents. Parents can rely on preventallergies.org for much-needed education about food allergies and early allergen introduction.
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Sarah Ackerman: Girl Behind the Hive
In her newest blog post, Sarah Ackerman's shares about her experiences with makeup and provides tips for people with fod allergies who are looking to buy makeup!
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Simply Gluten Free
Simply Gluten Free is run by Carol Kicinski, a TV chef who has been living with gluten-sensitivity for over 20 years. She has created over 2,000 recipes and authored over 20 eBooks. Check this website out for recipes, wellness articles, coupons, and much more!
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Sean N. Parker Center for Food Allergy & Asthma Research Newsletter
Read the 2020 Annual Report which covers research at Stanford University, immunotherapy outcome, EoE and health in general!
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In a featured Q&A, immunologist Dr. Nadeau discusses advances in food-allergy treatment and research, including a growing body of evidence that patients with several food allergies can be safely treated for all of them at once.
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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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Parent perspectives on food allergy management and safety during the COVID-19 pandemic
This paper was primary authored by Anne F. Russell, MS, BSN, RN, AE-C.
How has the COVID-19 pandemic changed the ways in which parents perceive food allergy management? This paper used a survey taken by parents of kids with food allergy to answer this question.
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Food Allergy Friendly Companies, Apps, Books and Videos |
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Elijah-Alavi Foundation X Allergy Insider
Allergy Insider is excited to launch our partnership with The Elijah-Alavi Foundation, a non-profit organization whose mission is to focus on allergy and asthma education, advocacy, and equity. To hear Thomas Silvera’s #ThatKid story, click here. For more information about the Elijah-Alavi foundation, click here or follow @elijahsecho on Instagram.
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Allergy Insider
Our mission is to deliver evidence-based education about allergies and allergic disease. We believe that people who understand their condition can not only better manage their disease and prevent adverse outcomes, but also live happier, healthier lives.
Now, we need YOU. Can you relate to being #ThatKid? Or are you the mom/dad of #ThatKid?
Here at Allergy Insider, we created the #ThatKid awareness campaign to amplify the voices of people whose daily lives are affected by food allergies and other invisible diseases.
Join us in our journey to spread compassion and understanding. I invite you to share this #ThatKid video on your social channels, tagging @allergyinsider and including the #ThatKid hashtag.
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Special thanks to Ria Jain for creating our Winter 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
Try the new Seedsonal flavor- spiced cranberry! Just good warm and cozy nutrition. A blend of fall spices with cranberries and a burst of orange. Made entirely in a dedicated bakery free of peanuts, tree nuts, gluten, dairy, eggs, soy, and sesame!
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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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Hungry Harry's makes baking at home a piece of cake with our collection of allergy friendly, tried and true, home-tested recipes. |
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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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Equal Eats Card Campaign
I’ve been busy relaunching my allergy card business under the new name Equal Eats. I’m moving towards an exciting crowdfunding campaign this winter to offer new plastic cards. Currently I’m testing the waters and need a favor...Can you please fill in this 3 minute survey on the new products?
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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. Try out their new soft baked mini cookies which come in 7 unique flavors such as apple cinnamon, red velvet, snickerdoodle and more!
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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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Southwest Airlines bans peanuts- see how other airlines handle allergies |
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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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"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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OWYN, the plant-based protein drink has expanded their family of top 8 allergen-free ready to drinks
Every bottle of OWYN Pro-Elite contains 35g of High-Quality Protein, 0 g of sugar, 3 unique plant sources to build a complete protein profile with all 9 essential amino acids, and 535mg Vegan Omega-3's which are known to be anti-inflammatory. OWYN Products contain zero major allergens and OWYN tests all of their final production lots by two independent third parties to validate that all OWYN products are free from dairy, soy, gluten/wheat, egg, peanut, and tree nuts.
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OWYN has once again joined forces with FARE (Food Allergy Research and Education) for its fourth year of partnership. OWYN is a proud champion of the food allergy community and supports FARE'S mission in making research and education accessible to individuals and families with food allergies. |
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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?
Don't miss out on the exciting new Holiday flavors such as Gingerbread cookie granola and Chocolaty Candy Cane Drizzled Popcorn! Shop the Holiday Flavors Bundle to save on both!
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INTRODUCING NEW CHOCOLATY CANDY CANE DRIZZLED POPCORN!
Drizzled with chocolaty peppermint flavor made with real cocoa -plus, delicious crushed candy canes!
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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 the best Allergy-Friendly Holiday Treats?
Check out Spokin's Holiday Gift Guide to ensure a safe and festive holiday season filled with treats. From decorate-your-own gingerbread coookies to delecatable chocolates and even cooking classes, find everyhting you need and more this winter! Plus, this gift guide is packed with exclusive discounts and special offers!
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28 Allergy-Friendly Vanilla Ice Creams
Everyone deserves to indulge in the classic vanilla ice cream! Check out the top 28 vanilla ice cream brands that satisfy a variety of food allergies, because nothing is better than a big scoop of ice cream!
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VUCA Health
VUCA Health has created the largest library of medication education videos. Their video library is designed for patients, by pharmacists. It contains over 1000 medication, condition and administration videos. Their videos can be integrated into websites, mobile apps, smart speakers, and pharmacy management systems. VUCA Health is bringing vision, understanding, clarity and action to the health industry today.
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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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Northwestern Medicine offers Board-Certified Allergy and Immunology physicians seeing patients at two locations in the northern suburbs, bringing allergy specialty care closer to home. |
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Dr. Deeba Masood
Dr. Deeba Masood studied Integrative Medicine. In an effort to provide superior patient care, she incorporates holisitic methodologies into her allopathic medical practice. She is a certified Integrative Medical Practitioner by the American Academy of Integrative Medicine. Dr. Masood sees patients in Vernon Hills, IL, and treats all types of allergies and immune deficiency disorders, including food allergies, for pediatric, adult and geriatric patients. View a video of Dr. Masood and request an appointment: Deeba Masood, MD | Northwestern Medicine
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Dr. Cheryl Steiman
Dr. Cheryl Steiman sees patients in Glenview, IL, and treats both pediatric and adult patients for allergies, including environmental (pollens, mold, pet dander, and dust), foods, drugs, and stinging insects. She has a special interest in treating patients with asthma, reoccurring hives, and chronic nasal and sinus symptoms. She crafts personalized treatment plans for every patient based on individual values and needs and offers medication management with allergy shots and biologic treatments. View a video of Dr. Steiman and request an appointment: Cheryl A. Steiman, MD | Northwestern Medicine Dr. Steiman’s office number: 847-535-7647.
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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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CFAAR Community Resources
Dr. Ruchi Gupta and her team have developed peer-to-peer food allergy educational videos that can be shown in classrooms! In the link, there is a video library containing many educational videos. Additionally, there are pdfs for Food Allergy Workbook and Passport, which help children become better aware of their allergies.
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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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Research Project: College & Food Allergies
Do you know a college-aged student? We need your help!
The CFAAR research team is working on a project to learn more about the needs of college students with food allergies nationwide. We are looking for college students (with or without food allergies) and recent college graduates to complete an anonymous survey that will only take about 5-15 minutes to complete.
This survey will help researchers help identify areas which need improvement on college campuses so they can better support students with food allergy.
*for freshmen, select "other" as year
Please help spread the word and share the link!
https://is.gd/CollegeFASurvey
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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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Please follow The Division of Allergy and Immunology at Lurie Children’s on IG and FB. Our sites include patient stories, fast facts about allergy and immunology, links to the studies that we are currently enrolling for as well as other reminders and news.
IG : @lurie.allergyandimmunology
FB: @LurieChildrensAllergyImmunology
Lurie Children's Peanut OIT Clinical Services:
Lurie Children’s Division of Allergy and Immunology has started offering Palforzia for treatment of 4-17 year old children with peanut allergy. Dr Melanie Makhija is the Medical Director of the OIT program. Interested patients and families may contact the division office at 1-312-227-6010 for further information.
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Experts Question Need to Wait Days Between Introducing New Solid Foods to Infants
“From the perspective of food allergy detection, there is no reason to wait three to five days to introduce another food,” says Ruchi Gupta, MD, MPH.
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Lurie Children's Division of Allergy & Immunology Facebook Page |
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Half of People with Food Allergies Report at Least One Allergic Reaction Each Year
A very interesting article about the prevalence and causes of different food allergic reactions. Includes work from the CFAAR team.
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What foods cause or reduce inflammation?
You might want to change your eating habits after reading this very informative article! Is a mediterranean diet healthy? Does gluten play a role in inflammation?
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Gluten-free guide to college: How celiac disease patients can prepare for a gluten-free lifestyle on campus
As many students are preparing to return to campus after a virtual semester, it is very important that they know how to take care of themselves and their dietary restrictions. Read this article for advice on how students can lead a safer gluten-free college lifestyle.
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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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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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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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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.
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 Julia Auerbach, Ryan Smith, Susan Tatelli, Pranav Bajaj, 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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Another Abnormal Semester:
Starting college during a pandemic was definitely unusual and even though most of my classes were online, I still had many opportunities to meet new people. I enjoyed many outdoor activities on campus such as canoeing, outdoor exercise classes, and a LOT of walks!
For the Spring:
I will be returning to campus for the spring semester. Since the fall semester went well (in terms of low COVID-19 cases on campus) it sounds like William & Mary is moving toward having more hybrid and in person classes, which is exciting!
What I've been enjoying:
I recently returned home from college and have enjoyed relaxing with our cats, reading, and eating good food! I am looking forward to making Christmas cookies with the family and learning how to paint.
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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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Another Abnormal Semester:
This past Fall semester has been fully remote which has its challenges. School work, virtual club meetings, and college applications have all kept me very busy.
For the Spring:
As of now, it seems that I will continue to de school from home and possibly even finish our my senior year remotely as well. I hope that my classmates and I will have some special senior year events even during the pandemic.
What I have Been Enjoying:
Besides school work and college applications, I have also been keeping busy playing tennis, watching movies with my family, and baking lots of gluten-free treats.
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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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Another Abnormal Semester
This past quarter, I studied from home since all of my classes were virtual. Although it was difficult not being able to study side-by-side with friends, I did enjoy some aspects of the virtual semester. I had a lot more time throughout the day since going to another class just meant clicking another tab!
For the Spring:
Currently, I am planning to return to campus and take a few in-person classes. I am really looking forward to it!
What We Have Been Enjoying
I have been spending a lot more time outside. Specifically, I enjoy playing the socially-distanced sports of tennis and golf with my friends. I have been playing tennis since middle school, but golf is a new game that I have just picked up. I need to work most on my short game—my consistency is just not up to par yet!
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Ryan Smith
- High School Senior (18 years old)
- Glenbrook North High School
You can connect with me on email at ryanskate29@gmail.com
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Another Abnormal Semester:
This semester I was learning all online from home. It was definitly a challenge at first to figure out how my family of 5 would all work from home. I spent a lot of time finalizing my college applications! I was still able to participate in Medical Club and Speech Team through online platforms. I led weekly Medical Club meetings for members and have competed in numerous online speech tournaments this season.
For the Spring:
Right now I am expecting to start next semester all online again. I'm hoping that I'll be able to resume some small club meetings in person and get to go into school a few times. I'm still being optimistic about having some "normal" senior year events!
What We Have Been Enjoying:
I have been baking a ton which is super cathartic for me! I always make a ton of treats on the weekend and drop them off at family and friends houses. My family also started a tradition where we drive to the city to pick up food once a week as a fun excursion! I've also been watching so much "Holiday Baking Championship" and the "Great British Baking Championship"!
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John Kosner
- College Junior (21 years old)
- University and Major: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Molecular and Cellular Biology
You can contact with me on Spokin: johnkoz92 or email jkosner2@illinois.edu
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Another Abnormal Semester:
This semester was very unique for me due to taking courses remotely and adjusting to being home for the semester. It was a nice challenge to find ways to adjust my studying at home and still stay involved with my extracurriculars and volunteering online. It is great to have the chance to develop some resilience.
For the Spring:
Right now I am deciding between whether to be at school for the semester or staying home again. All my courses will be online but being at the two locations would offer different opportunities so I have to see what works best for me! All I know is that there will be a lot of studying!
What We Have Been Enjoying:
A big bright spot for me has been cooking and hopefully my family thinks so too. Cooking has brought a nice consistency to a semester that has been anything but that. Also I have really enjoyed taking the weekend to find new trails to hike after spending a lot of time on a screen. Recently I really enjoyed the TV show "The Queen's Gambit," the book "Mountains Beyond Mountains" and the movie "Dances with Wolves!"
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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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Tim Tebow just released a new social unity app called "Kindli" which promotes kindness and positivity. It can be downloaded now!
Pic Credit: KINDLI
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Relax in the coziest pajamas this winter with Feejays- sweatpants with feet! Denise says, “I am currently living in these sweatpants with the feet attached! They even have TEAL!” Find them at Feejays. |
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Scrolling a little too much on Netflix? Need a new show to binge? The Queen's Gambit is a top five favorite show of mine. If you are looking to be hooked on a show, look no further. Just be prepared to watch all 7 episodes in a row!
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This allergy-friendly company offers many delicious goods for those of us on restricted diets. Some of their products include Cinnamon Raisin Bagels and Butter Cookies. Read all ingredients before purchasing for your specific restrictions, but a lot of their products are free from many common allergens.
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Buy this super cool light up glass as seen in Denise's December MOCHA Talk episode! link
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Follow @chalk_full_of_surprises on Instagram for daily inspirational chalk messages! |
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Need a new snack to go along with the new TV series you're watching? Try Lesser Evil popcorn! Organic, non-GMO air popped popcorn made with coconut oil that taste just like the classic buttery popcorn. The Himalayan Gold and the "No Cheese" Cheesiness flavors are seriously addicting!
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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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