It was a classroom party. There was a sign-up sheet taped to the door, inviting parents to bring various items. You know the drill: plates, napkins, cups, juice boxes. Scribbled at the top of the page was a little note: “No dairy products please.” I smiled, because I knew that note was there on account […]
Food Allergies
Here’s a look at a “pizza” our day

There’s ice on the ground outside. It’s collected in tiny icicles on the roof and patio furniture. Just looking at it makes you cold, which means it was the perfect night for a warm meal – and we chose one that was both fun and delicious! Since Russell has a severe allergy to cheese, we […]
She puts a teal pumpkin on her porch, the reason will shock you…

Okay, so that was a click-bait headline. But now that I have your attention: That statistic may be alarming to you. It was to me. Because food allergies aren’t really talked about. Despite so many people being affected by allergic reactions to things like peanuts, milk, eggs, or a whole host of other foods, the […]
When it really is your money or your life

This isn’t the first time I’ve talked about EpiPens and, at the rate things are going, it probably won’t be the last. I just filled a prescription for my son’s epinephrine injectors. If you don’t know what those are, I’m truly happy you’ve never had to experience the reason they’re used. EpiPens, as they’re typically […]
The true cost of big medicine

When I became a mom, I didn’t know what would be in store. Would I eventually become the typical picture of a “soccer mom”—with sports drinks and cleats littering the floorboards of my SUV? Would I be the parent of a musician, carting my son around to band practice? A mom of all boys? A […]
When a rash isn’t just a rash

Call me naïve, but I don’t think there’s a parent in the world who wants less than the best for their children. No mother actively seeks out their child’s pain, heartache, or loss. It’s impossible. Given that parental second-nature, you can imagine how difficult it’s been navigating through my sweet Russell’s health problems. The worst […]