Increase Day!

162 days after her Day One, we are waiting in the office for an increase to 12 peanuts twice a day. From the tiniest fraction of a peanut, to 24 each day in less than six months. Wow!

"Wow" seems like such a silly word and I know I've used it a thousand times in this blog and in conversations about desensitization. But I cannot convey the life changes we have experienced - I just can't find another word.

When Calista was diagnosed (before her first birthday), I wanted to buy a bubble and stick her inside. The allergist told us that her next exposure to peanuts could be life-threatening and complete avoidance of the allergen would be the only way to keep her safe. I really was afraid of everything. The more I read, the more worried I became. You learn about cross-contamination, the dangers of peanut residue on surfaces, the products that have peanut or are processed in a facility, and on and on. We have learned that nuts can be found in the most random things - seed packets, tomato paste, etc.

You learn to read labels, wipe surfaces, educate everyone around about EpiPens. You see the fear in a teacher's eyes when you try to explain this -- when you ask them to teach your child, care about your child, show them the right way to treat others and oh, keep a lookout on any food, treats, etc. and be ready to save her life (if another student's lunchbox contains a bomb).

Next week, we will visit Dallas Allergy for a 24 peanut challenge. After that, she will be on Maintenance. Maintenance will require her to eat eight peanuts a day. But, she will be free to eat as many additional peanut products as she wants.

That means playdates will be okay, ice cream shops will be okay, cupcakes at school will be okay.

Wow!