Peter Stewart's Shellfish Allergy (Q&A)
Read about how Peter has navigated his shellfish allergy throughout his life
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Peter Stewart, Chicago, IL, Jones College Prep, Class of 2024
Q: How and when did you find out you had an allergy?
A: “I was a child, about nine or so, when I realized I had a shellfish allergy. My mom made some dish with shrimp in it. I can’t remember exactly what it was, but I remember I ate it, and soon after, I broke out into hives and had trouble breathing. It was very scary at the moment, but looking back, I’m glad it wasn’t a worse reaction.”
Q: What’s the biggest allergic reaction you’ve had?
A: “The biggest allergic reaction I’ve ever had was after my Christmas dinner. My mom made crab, and at the time, I wasn’t sure if I was just allergic to shrimp or all shellfish. After I ate it, I became extremely itchy and red, could barely breathe, and was unable to sleep the whole night.”
Q: How has your allergy shaped who you are today?
A: “It’s made me more conscious about what I eat and what those around me eat. I now pay extra attention to the toppings on sandwiches or salads or the ingredients in soups, etc.”
Q: How has your allergy affected your daily life?
A: “I carry an EpiPen with me sometimes, and I’m conscious of what foods are around me.”
Kids Allergy Network spreads awareness on the topic of allergies and helps advocate for and create more allergy-friendly environments.
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