Tuesday, July 30, 2013

Teen from California Dies from Food Allergy Reaction

It is truly tragic and our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Natalie Giorgi who died from a fatal allergic reaction to peanuts at Camp Sacramento in California. Natalie was at camp with her family when she took a bite of a Rice Krispies treat that was coated with peanut butter and topped off with chocolate. Even though Natalie was always diligent about her allergies, they believe that because it was dark, she did not notice the peanut butter until she had already taken a bite. She immediately spit it out but she had an anaphylactic reaction anyways and eventually died. Her parents had given her Benadryl and multiple doses of her Epi-pen.

I am always saddened to hear about this tragic accident and a bit frightened because I think that could have been my daughter. I am hesitant to post this because I know that my daughter will read this and because she is the same age as this girl, this news will affect her even more. Natalie's family released a statement, “As our hearts are breaking over this tragedy, we hope others can learn from this that food allergies are life-threatening.” They went on to say, “Caution and care for those (afflicted) should always be supported and taken.”

My mother and sister, who also have severe nut allergies, have skipped many a dessert line because they knew that there was no way to know what the exact ingredients were in them. We have taught our daughter to do the same, she either brings her own dessert or she waits and has something when she gets home. This is why it is so important to make sure you or your child, no matter what the age, is very careful when they are eating something that does not have the ingredients listed. We all know homemade treats are the most tasty but it is not worth the risk!

Again, this is a tragic accident and our deepest sympathy are with the Giorgi family at this time of great sorrow.

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