The time is here - Peanut Party planning has now begun. Yesterday Claire and I went to Dallas and increased to 6 peanuts twice a day. The PA told us to plan for her "graduation" the first week of November. We can get any and all Halloween candy and save it for after her graduation. This is such a huge deal for us. As I type I realize how stupid is sounds, but it's not. Candy, desserts, snacks no longer have the power to kill Claire.
We have said from the beginning of the journey that we would throw a Peanut Party after she graduates this program. Planning is underway. I have found the invitations, paper goods, menu, etc. If you would like to be invited (and are not family - because you HAVE to be there) please message me your address.
This is a time to celebrate!!!! I am asked all the time if I can believe this. On one hand - no. This was the life God chose to give us, so this is the life we will live. On the other hand - well yeah! God works miracles all the stinking time. His miracles sometimes involve us stepping out in faith. Praise the Lord above that we did just that. I have to give Adam the props for that. I researched and called and read and asked questions, but it was him who said YES. I don't think I was strong enough to actually pull that trigger.
Her personality has changed. Those closest to her can see it. She is becoming more brave, more sure. Her social ability is getting some stronger. She will always be her own little Punky Brewster, but she is opening up little by little. Claire started gymnastics last month. I don't look for her to go to the Olympics, but she is loving it. This is one specific this she could NEVER do, the risk of cross contamination was too much. She is playing with the sisters at the ball field while Cole is playing baseball - she used to be my second skin. Her possibilities are now endless.
I feel like this has given her a new lease on life. Please don't misunderstand me - this is not cancer that we beat, this does not compare to the families who are dealing with that. This is our reality, it was life and death for our Claire.
Claire and I will be on the road every Tuesday for the next 5 week (barring unforeseen circumstances). Please pray for safe travels - Dallas is nerve racking regardless of the time of day.
I am so thankful for such an understanding and patient school administration and faculty. They truly love and care for all the children there. They take a personal interest, it doesn't end at 3 o'clock. I am also thankful for a boss who only says, "be safe" when I tell him I'm going back to Dallas, I am never made to feel guilty for not being in the office. God has placed such supportive people in our path over the years.
Please stay tuned for our fast approaching conclusion!!!!!!!!
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Wednesday, August 19, 2015
Up to 3 peanuts
Tim, Britny, Claire and I went to Dallas yesterday for her increase. It was our first trip during her 2nd grade year. If all goes as planned she will be a 3rd grader eating anything and everything!!! It's really very exciting and very hard to wrap my head around.
She has had a barking seal-like cough when she doses and when she has played hard. We left Dallas with a rx for an inhaler. She will use the inhaler 3 times a day for the next week then as needed for intermittent asthma. Claire is also now eating 3 peanuts twice a day. For all you mathematicians out there - that's 6 peanuts everyday!! All in all it was a great trip. It was very easy, and Claire did her schoolwork on the road.
School started last week. Cole is in 5th this year and Claire is in 2nd. They both have fantastic teachers. I can't begin to explain how wonderful it is to be able to relax when I drop them off in the morning. I know that God is in control; He placed us at this school. It's hard to believe this is Cole's last year in the nest, and I know Claire's time there will fly by just the same.
I am working on living in the now. Not worrying too much about what's next, just enjoying everyday. This is such a fun age, no more baby stuff. They are actual real kids now.
Nothing more to report for now. We head back next week - 7 more steps until her graduation!!
She has had a barking seal-like cough when she doses and when she has played hard. We left Dallas with a rx for an inhaler. She will use the inhaler 3 times a day for the next week then as needed for intermittent asthma. Claire is also now eating 3 peanuts twice a day. For all you mathematicians out there - that's 6 peanuts everyday!! All in all it was a great trip. It was very easy, and Claire did her schoolwork on the road.
School started last week. Cole is in 5th this year and Claire is in 2nd. They both have fantastic teachers. I can't begin to explain how wonderful it is to be able to relax when I drop them off in the morning. I know that God is in control; He placed us at this school. It's hard to believe this is Cole's last year in the nest, and I know Claire's time there will fly by just the same.
I am working on living in the now. Not worrying too much about what's next, just enjoying everyday. This is such a fun age, no more baby stuff. They are actual real kids now.
Nothing more to report for now. We head back next week - 7 more steps until her graduation!!
Tuesday, July 28, 2015
Better Late Than Never
First, let me start by apologizing for not keeping everyone in the loop. Summer has been crazy busy, as I'm sure everyone's is. Second, thank you all for your prayers. Claire is now eating 2 peanuts twice a day.
It is such a bizarre feeling to be weighing out peanuts, having them in our house, her breath smelling like peanuts. This is one of those deals that I knew God could do, but I really didn't think we would get this far. Oh ye of little faith! God has not only gotten us this far, but I am watching Him change Claire. Of course she is still fearful, but not to the degree it was. We went to Splash Kingdom for a church event Sunday night. She's never been because of the cross contamination aspect. She swam and slid and just had fun like any and every 7 year old should.
The school year starts in about 15 minutes and the dread is no longer there. Yes, we will still have emergency kits, plans in place and rules to follow. But, her shear panic over what a friend may or may not have eaten for breakfast is gone. This will be a year she will enjoy.
Claire starts 2nd grade and Cole begins 5th - I am speechless. They will be upstairs together this for their last time until high school. I'm sure I'm making a huge deal out of this and ya'll are all rolling your eyes - but I am struggling. The next time they will be in the same school Cole will be a senior and Claire a freshman. I may have to lay down!
It's so strange to be thinking this far ahead, but from the time she was 2 I have prayed for the rapture because I didn't know how we could deal with Claire going to school. Now she is starting her third year at EG. What an awesome God we serve.
We leave for our family vacation Saturday for a week of just the 4 of us - this is a first. We hope to increase Claire to 3 peanuts twice a day 8/10 (the Monday before school starts). I'll keep you posted!
It is such a bizarre feeling to be weighing out peanuts, having them in our house, her breath smelling like peanuts. This is one of those deals that I knew God could do, but I really didn't think we would get this far. Oh ye of little faith! God has not only gotten us this far, but I am watching Him change Claire. Of course she is still fearful, but not to the degree it was. We went to Splash Kingdom for a church event Sunday night. She's never been because of the cross contamination aspect. She swam and slid and just had fun like any and every 7 year old should.
The school year starts in about 15 minutes and the dread is no longer there. Yes, we will still have emergency kits, plans in place and rules to follow. But, her shear panic over what a friend may or may not have eaten for breakfast is gone. This will be a year she will enjoy.
Claire starts 2nd grade and Cole begins 5th - I am speechless. They will be upstairs together this for their last time until high school. I'm sure I'm making a huge deal out of this and ya'll are all rolling your eyes - but I am struggling. The next time they will be in the same school Cole will be a senior and Claire a freshman. I may have to lay down!
It's so strange to be thinking this far ahead, but from the time she was 2 I have prayed for the rapture because I didn't know how we could deal with Claire going to school. Now she is starting her third year at EG. What an awesome God we serve.
We leave for our family vacation Saturday for a week of just the 4 of us - this is a first. We hope to increase Claire to 3 peanuts twice a day 8/10 (the Monday before school starts). I'll keep you posted!
Monday, June 22, 2015
Still Going Strong
I know I haven't updated in a while, but we've been stuck on this dose for the last month. Claire has had a few reactions, one severe. The thought of increasing her any sooner was out of the question. It's honestly a little frustrating (we are almost to a peanut) but her little body is just taking a little longer to acclimate to the changes. We will continue to be patient, God is good.
Since we have been on the same dose for 4 weeks and were only sent home with 2 weeks worth of capsules, we had to have more shipped to us. The compound pharmacy is in Frisco (no they will not do it at any of our local pharmacies). The thought of driving 3 hours one way to pick up meds was not something I wanted to do. Thankfully JaNae Wilson Carroll lives right there! She was sweet enough to pickup the capsules and overnight them to me. This sounds small, but it was truly HUGE. She has 2 small children, and was willing to load them up to help me out. So grateful!!!!
The package arrives early the next day - so happy to just have them appear on my doorstep. I put them in my purse and we go to dinner at a seafood restaurant (because we can now!!!!! no more shellfish allergy!!!). Afterwards Claire wants to stop at Nana's to have her hair trimmed a little shorter. We stop and while Claire is getting her hair cut I decide to get her dose ready. Keep in mind, this is the new shipment and I have not opened one yet. I get her Hershey bar (don't judge) and open the capsule to poor it on there. It's white, like white white. It has always been peanut color. Through the whole capsule process it has been the same color. We all taste it and it's salt. All you taste is grainy salt. To say that I'm unhappy is an understatement. I immediately call Dr Silvers and explain the situation. He is more upset than I am believe it or not. He has us go to Kroger to get PB2 (it's a powder peanut butter) to use as her dose until he can straighten it out. Thankfully there was something to do, I was worried we were going to have a real setback.
I speak to the pharmacy Monday morning and she wants to know how I know the capsules aren't right. "Because they taste like salt and are bleached white, what do you mean how do I know?" She asks if I want her to make a new batch or just send more from the same batch. Are you kidding me, Why oh why would you send me MORE of the wrong thing. I feel like I'm going crazy at this point. I "kindly" ask her to make a new batch and ship them to Dr Silvers. She does and he calls the next day confirming that these were NOT correct. Yay - I'm not stupid after all!!! And I didn't overreact!!! Small victory.
Several days later he calls back to say there actually is peanut flour in the capsules. It's a different bleached formula that the pharmacy used this time. The physicians were not aware of the change and were not at all happy about it. If something that huge is going to change, they should be alerted to it. This is truly life and death they are dealing with here. It matters. Needless to say I asked Dr Silvers if we could stay on the PB2 until our next increase, I still don't trust the other capsules. So, here we sit at 250 mg (1/8 tsp). We leave in the morning to increase to our last capsule (500mg), next stop....single peanut twice a day.
I don't think I'm ready for that. The peanut is a big deal. Everything else has been "medicine," but now it's for real deal peanut. Craziness. She is super excited about all the things she will be able to do; airplane, amusement parks, sleep overs, etc. I'm the one (Adam too) who is nervous and somewhat anxious about what is to come. God has brought us farther than I thought possible.....we are almost there! We just have to continue to trust.
Thank you again for all the prayers!
Since we have been on the same dose for 4 weeks and were only sent home with 2 weeks worth of capsules, we had to have more shipped to us. The compound pharmacy is in Frisco (no they will not do it at any of our local pharmacies). The thought of driving 3 hours one way to pick up meds was not something I wanted to do. Thankfully JaNae Wilson Carroll lives right there! She was sweet enough to pickup the capsules and overnight them to me. This sounds small, but it was truly HUGE. She has 2 small children, and was willing to load them up to help me out. So grateful!!!!
The package arrives early the next day - so happy to just have them appear on my doorstep. I put them in my purse and we go to dinner at a seafood restaurant (because we can now!!!!! no more shellfish allergy!!!). Afterwards Claire wants to stop at Nana's to have her hair trimmed a little shorter. We stop and while Claire is getting her hair cut I decide to get her dose ready. Keep in mind, this is the new shipment and I have not opened one yet. I get her Hershey bar (don't judge) and open the capsule to poor it on there. It's white, like white white. It has always been peanut color. Through the whole capsule process it has been the same color. We all taste it and it's salt. All you taste is grainy salt. To say that I'm unhappy is an understatement. I immediately call Dr Silvers and explain the situation. He is more upset than I am believe it or not. He has us go to Kroger to get PB2 (it's a powder peanut butter) to use as her dose until he can straighten it out. Thankfully there was something to do, I was worried we were going to have a real setback.
I speak to the pharmacy Monday morning and she wants to know how I know the capsules aren't right. "Because they taste like salt and are bleached white, what do you mean how do I know?" She asks if I want her to make a new batch or just send more from the same batch. Are you kidding me, Why oh why would you send me MORE of the wrong thing. I feel like I'm going crazy at this point. I "kindly" ask her to make a new batch and ship them to Dr Silvers. She does and he calls the next day confirming that these were NOT correct. Yay - I'm not stupid after all!!! And I didn't overreact!!! Small victory.
Several days later he calls back to say there actually is peanut flour in the capsules. It's a different bleached formula that the pharmacy used this time. The physicians were not aware of the change and were not at all happy about it. If something that huge is going to change, they should be alerted to it. This is truly life and death they are dealing with here. It matters. Needless to say I asked Dr Silvers if we could stay on the PB2 until our next increase, I still don't trust the other capsules. So, here we sit at 250 mg (1/8 tsp). We leave in the morning to increase to our last capsule (500mg), next stop....single peanut twice a day.
I don't think I'm ready for that. The peanut is a big deal. Everything else has been "medicine," but now it's for real deal peanut. Craziness. She is super excited about all the things she will be able to do; airplane, amusement parks, sleep overs, etc. I'm the one (Adam too) who is nervous and somewhat anxious about what is to come. God has brought us farther than I thought possible.....we are almost there! We just have to continue to trust.
Thank you again for all the prayers!
Friday, May 29, 2015
Are You Sitting Down?
I remember when Claire was first diagnosed with her food allergies and an EpiPen was thrown at us. At that moment I was thinking, "God can take this away." I really believed it, I believed it could happen that second - if that's what He chose. I told someone (can't remember who) that God can heal Claire. Lovingly their response was, "One day, maybe one day." NO - God can heal her now - right now. I know I got defensive, shocking right?! I have refused to accept Claire's diagnosis as "forever".
Yesterday Claire and I headed off to Dallas, just the two of us. We really had a great, fast trip there. Rewind: over the last several weeks God prompted me to ask about her shellfish allergy. Really hasn't been brought up since being in Dallas. So, I asked Dr Silvers and he agreed to retest her there at our next increase. Present Day: I whisper to the front desk that we need to have Claire tested for shellfish and to PLEASE keep it quiet. Claire's anxiety when it comes to testing is pretty severe. We go back to the exam room and her sweet nurse walks in with the shellfish paraphernalia. Claire immediately begins to breathe heavy and tear up. I assure her the best I can and snuggle her head, since the nurse needs her on her stomach to test. She takes it like a champ and we wait.
I'm watching her like a hawk. Her last skin test sent her into anaphylactic shock. Nothing was happening though. NOTHING. You couldn't see the test area except it was wet from the allergen. Zero swelling. We wait the 20 minutes and the nurse comes in and cleans off her back and there are no hives. She's never tested negative before. My head was spinning. Dr Silvers walks in and says, "well, looks like she grew out of her shellfish allergy. You can do a food challenge at home when you're ready. I don't foresee anything happening!" What? Let me get this straight, not only are we working to rid her of her life threatening peanut allergy, but now I am hearing that she has outgrown her life threatening shellfish allergy???? Too much to process. God healed her. Completely healed her, in His time. Not mine.
Claire takes her dose increase (250mg), we wait for 45 minutes and head out. I am still in shock. Part of me wants to send that stupid mama flowers that went to the school board and started all this crap. If it were not for her, we wouldn't be anywhere near this. The other part is still irritated that someone could be that dumb - so she's not getting flowers. ha!!
By the time school starts Claire will be eating several peanuts a day, twice a day. That is, if all continues to go as planned. This morning her throat was itching and her chest got really tight. But, after lying down for a minute under the fan, it started getting better. We will stay on this dose for 2 weeks before we increase to our last capsule! The thought of her putting a peanut in her mouth makes me lose my breath. But, the Lord has gotten us this far, I have no doubt He will get us to the finish line. I don't know if everyone can understand what this means for her, for us. Food will no longer be a threat to her life. It's not that we can eat out more, but she can DO more. She couldn't do gymnastics like she wants because her allergies. The close setting and cross contamination made it impossible. Her allergens were everywhere. Sunday School was not an option for the same reason. Sleep overs weren't even discussed. A boy kissing her for the first time (in 10 years). Her life will become limitless.
One step closer to Claire's Peanut Party!!! Please continue to pray, Claire is still have stomach problems with her doses as well. She is such a strong little girl!!! And, just let me say Cole is ecstatic about the shrimp entering back into our diets!
Yesterday Claire and I headed off to Dallas, just the two of us. We really had a great, fast trip there. Rewind: over the last several weeks God prompted me to ask about her shellfish allergy. Really hasn't been brought up since being in Dallas. So, I asked Dr Silvers and he agreed to retest her there at our next increase. Present Day: I whisper to the front desk that we need to have Claire tested for shellfish and to PLEASE keep it quiet. Claire's anxiety when it comes to testing is pretty severe. We go back to the exam room and her sweet nurse walks in with the shellfish paraphernalia. Claire immediately begins to breathe heavy and tear up. I assure her the best I can and snuggle her head, since the nurse needs her on her stomach to test. She takes it like a champ and we wait.
I'm watching her like a hawk. Her last skin test sent her into anaphylactic shock. Nothing was happening though. NOTHING. You couldn't see the test area except it was wet from the allergen. Zero swelling. We wait the 20 minutes and the nurse comes in and cleans off her back and there are no hives. She's never tested negative before. My head was spinning. Dr Silvers walks in and says, "well, looks like she grew out of her shellfish allergy. You can do a food challenge at home when you're ready. I don't foresee anything happening!" What? Let me get this straight, not only are we working to rid her of her life threatening peanut allergy, but now I am hearing that she has outgrown her life threatening shellfish allergy???? Too much to process. God healed her. Completely healed her, in His time. Not mine.
Claire takes her dose increase (250mg), we wait for 45 minutes and head out. I am still in shock. Part of me wants to send that stupid mama flowers that went to the school board and started all this crap. If it were not for her, we wouldn't be anywhere near this. The other part is still irritated that someone could be that dumb - so she's not getting flowers. ha!!
By the time school starts Claire will be eating several peanuts a day, twice a day. That is, if all continues to go as planned. This morning her throat was itching and her chest got really tight. But, after lying down for a minute under the fan, it started getting better. We will stay on this dose for 2 weeks before we increase to our last capsule! The thought of her putting a peanut in her mouth makes me lose my breath. But, the Lord has gotten us this far, I have no doubt He will get us to the finish line. I don't know if everyone can understand what this means for her, for us. Food will no longer be a threat to her life. It's not that we can eat out more, but she can DO more. She couldn't do gymnastics like she wants because her allergies. The close setting and cross contamination made it impossible. Her allergens were everywhere. Sunday School was not an option for the same reason. Sleep overs weren't even discussed. A boy kissing her for the first time (in 10 years). Her life will become limitless.
One step closer to Claire's Peanut Party!!! Please continue to pray, Claire is still have stomach problems with her doses as well. She is such a strong little girl!!! And, just let me say Cole is ecstatic about the shrimp entering back into our diets!
Thursday, May 14, 2015
Horse Pills
Yesterday Claire increased to 175 mg capsule twice a day. This is a HUGE jump in amount. She's handling it well so far, just minor stomach problems. Adam was sweet enough to take her yesterday, but I hate not being there. Hopefully I won't miss anymore.
Back to the capsules - they are big. Like that antibiotic you have to take with a sinus infection. Thankfully she's not swallowing them, but she has to consume all of the powder that fits in those ginormous vehicles. We have settled on rice crispy treats to get said powder down. Hopefully we have this week, then 2 more powder increases. Then it's peanut time.
I was talking to my nephew, Jonah, today about it. He asked if I was scared about the first peanut, because he was nervous. Of course I'm scared, I look to need heavy sedation during the process that day. Not to mention that at any moment she could relapse. But again, refer to my previous post, I HAVE to trust the Lord. There's nothing else I can possibly do.
We are already seeing the effects of the OIT, she is relaxing some. Not to the point of talking to someone that talks to her, but even at home with the things she now sees as possibilities. Truly miraculous.
Her biggest problem at school right now is that too many friends want to sit with her at her peanut table. All of her friends seem to have embraced this really well too. We are hoping to have her in full blown peanut mode by the time school starts. That means BUYING peanuts. Do you know that last time I bought peanut products? Almost 6 years ago. I can't even wrap my head around that part, have them in the pantry and not treating them like grenades. It's not a big deal to so many - but it's huge for us.
As mentioned in my previous post, please keep my sweet friends in your prayers. Heather is still working out details with her daddy's things. Becky, Ally & Camryn are figuring out how to live without husband and dad. So much sadness, but the strength they have shown is far beyond what I could have imagined.
Hope everyone has a great day - I'll update next week on the even BIGGER pills!
Back to the capsules - they are big. Like that antibiotic you have to take with a sinus infection. Thankfully she's not swallowing them, but she has to consume all of the powder that fits in those ginormous vehicles. We have settled on rice crispy treats to get said powder down. Hopefully we have this week, then 2 more powder increases. Then it's peanut time.
I was talking to my nephew, Jonah, today about it. He asked if I was scared about the first peanut, because he was nervous. Of course I'm scared, I look to need heavy sedation during the process that day. Not to mention that at any moment she could relapse. But again, refer to my previous post, I HAVE to trust the Lord. There's nothing else I can possibly do.
We are already seeing the effects of the OIT, she is relaxing some. Not to the point of talking to someone that talks to her, but even at home with the things she now sees as possibilities. Truly miraculous.
Her biggest problem at school right now is that too many friends want to sit with her at her peanut table. All of her friends seem to have embraced this really well too. We are hoping to have her in full blown peanut mode by the time school starts. That means BUYING peanuts. Do you know that last time I bought peanut products? Almost 6 years ago. I can't even wrap my head around that part, have them in the pantry and not treating them like grenades. It's not a big deal to so many - but it's huge for us.
As mentioned in my previous post, please keep my sweet friends in your prayers. Heather is still working out details with her daddy's things. Becky, Ally & Camryn are figuring out how to live without husband and dad. So much sadness, but the strength they have shown is far beyond what I could have imagined.
Hope everyone has a great day - I'll update next week on the even BIGGER pills!
Monday, May 4, 2015
2nd Capsule Increase
Adam and I took Claire last Thursday for her second increase with capsules. We are working through it, it's a pain in the butt to find things she will eat to transfer all this powder to her mouth. Not much room for error. But, we are making it happen.
I have had a hard time figuring out how to type this entry. My friend Heather buried her daddy last week and I was so heartbroken for her. We are too young to bury our parents. The "mamas" took up money to help with food, and while that is still fresh tragedy strikes again. Precious Becky Lary lost her husband, Richard last Saturday and she buried him Wednesday. He was only 49. For those of you that do not know, Mrs. Lary was Cole's first grade teacher. and she is a sweet sweet friend. Her daughter (Camryn) was Claire's 5th grade buddy. I can't in all honesty come on here and type about our Dallas Peanut adventures today. My heart is so heavy for Becky, Ally & Camryn. It's more than anyone can think of carrying.
Richard was a type 1 diabetic like Adam is, so Becky and I have talked about that several times. I have no clue if diabetes lead to his heart attack, God knows. But, of course my mind immediately went to Adam when I heard. "I can't lose him." is all I could think. "God, please don't take him." is what I prayed. I realized, after several sleepless nights that Becky "couldn't" lose Richard either. This wasn't because she was "ready," but it was because God had other plans. I can't lose sleep worrying if I have tomorrow or next week with my family. Not everyone gets tomorrow.
Since Claire's diagnosis I have understood that she was in God's hands. The part that I have a hard time with is ME not being in control of it. In my heart of hearts I would love to keep my family in a bubble. Yes, I am controlling............I'm working on that.
I have been asked hundreds of times how I deal with Claire's allergies. I don't, God gives me what I need, when I need it. And I know God has done the same for Heather losing her daddy and Becky and the girls losing a husband and daddy.
Thinking of dealing with allergies in comparison to the loss they have experienced seems laughable! My life is truly easy, and I am grateful.
Please pray for these families when God puts them on your heart.
I have had a hard time figuring out how to type this entry. My friend Heather buried her daddy last week and I was so heartbroken for her. We are too young to bury our parents. The "mamas" took up money to help with food, and while that is still fresh tragedy strikes again. Precious Becky Lary lost her husband, Richard last Saturday and she buried him Wednesday. He was only 49. For those of you that do not know, Mrs. Lary was Cole's first grade teacher. and she is a sweet sweet friend. Her daughter (Camryn) was Claire's 5th grade buddy. I can't in all honesty come on here and type about our Dallas Peanut adventures today. My heart is so heavy for Becky, Ally & Camryn. It's more than anyone can think of carrying.
Richard was a type 1 diabetic like Adam is, so Becky and I have talked about that several times. I have no clue if diabetes lead to his heart attack, God knows. But, of course my mind immediately went to Adam when I heard. "I can't lose him." is all I could think. "God, please don't take him." is what I prayed. I realized, after several sleepless nights that Becky "couldn't" lose Richard either. This wasn't because she was "ready," but it was because God had other plans. I can't lose sleep worrying if I have tomorrow or next week with my family. Not everyone gets tomorrow.
Since Claire's diagnosis I have understood that she was in God's hands. The part that I have a hard time with is ME not being in control of it. In my heart of hearts I would love to keep my family in a bubble. Yes, I am controlling............I'm working on that.
I have been asked hundreds of times how I deal with Claire's allergies. I don't, God gives me what I need, when I need it. And I know God has done the same for Heather losing her daddy and Becky and the girls losing a husband and daddy.
Thinking of dealing with allergies in comparison to the loss they have experienced seems laughable! My life is truly easy, and I am grateful.
Please pray for these families when God puts them on your heart.
Monday, April 20, 2015
Last Liquid Dose
I apologize to all my many followers (hahaha) for not posting in 3 weeks. April 2nd we went and when I say "we" I mean me, Claire & Cole. No other adult supervision. It worked out surprisingly well. Thankfully Cole is old enough to go the bathroom alone. And he is honestly the best with Claire. She increased and we headed back.
Last week was Claire's last liquid increase. This time Daddy took her, alone! I think this is the longest those two have been alone together since her birth. 6 hours in the car with Claire are like 20 hours with a normal kid. She asks rapid fire, off the wall questions. And while you are trying to think of the best way to answer her, she asks another. If you don't know her (your life is lacking if you don't know her) Claire has the voice of a cartoon character. It makes for a long day.
Anyway, they went, increased and headed home. Only after stopping at the gift shop in the hospital and getting a new stuffed animal with Nana money!! Adam said she did great. To say I am thankful for that man would be an understatement. But, I hate when people go on and on about their spouse on social media. Usually means there is a problem, overcompensating. So I will be quick - God knew what I needed and gave me Adam. He is the best decision I have made in my life. Couldn't do any of this life without him. There - I'm done. Let's move on.
Claire is now on her last dose increase and has done beautifully. We go back Thursday to start on capsules. The capsules are "powder" filled and we empty them in a food item and she eats it. This is to allow the mixture to move all around her mouth, not straight down her throat. This increase will not actually increase until the next time. So this capsule we get Thursday is going to be a lateral move. Same dosage, different form. You get it.
Here's where we are concerned - Claire doesn't eat much "food". And the food they recommend is pudding (it's too squishy mama) or oatmeal (hahahaha), or ice cream. Ice cream it is. That means breakfast too. And this baby doesn't just say "I don't want it," she throws up. Super fun around a dinner table. Claire gags, Adam lowers his head, I narrow my eyes and Cole hits the dirt. Chicken! It's hilarious - I've said before our life is sort of like a sitcom.
Anyhoo - we appreciate everyone's prayers, this is working. God is performing a miracle everyday she is able to tolerate her dose. Please continue to pray for our travels - lots of time on the road. Also, pray that Claire finds a food that works for this next stage.
Again, thank you all!!!
Last week was Claire's last liquid increase. This time Daddy took her, alone! I think this is the longest those two have been alone together since her birth. 6 hours in the car with Claire are like 20 hours with a normal kid. She asks rapid fire, off the wall questions. And while you are trying to think of the best way to answer her, she asks another. If you don't know her (your life is lacking if you don't know her) Claire has the voice of a cartoon character. It makes for a long day.
Anyway, they went, increased and headed home. Only after stopping at the gift shop in the hospital and getting a new stuffed animal with Nana money!! Adam said she did great. To say I am thankful for that man would be an understatement. But, I hate when people go on and on about their spouse on social media. Usually means there is a problem, overcompensating. So I will be quick - God knew what I needed and gave me Adam. He is the best decision I have made in my life. Couldn't do any of this life without him. There - I'm done. Let's move on.
Claire is now on her last dose increase and has done beautifully. We go back Thursday to start on capsules. The capsules are "powder" filled and we empty them in a food item and she eats it. This is to allow the mixture to move all around her mouth, not straight down her throat. This increase will not actually increase until the next time. So this capsule we get Thursday is going to be a lateral move. Same dosage, different form. You get it.
Here's where we are concerned - Claire doesn't eat much "food". And the food they recommend is pudding (it's too squishy mama) or oatmeal (hahahaha), or ice cream. Ice cream it is. That means breakfast too. And this baby doesn't just say "I don't want it," she throws up. Super fun around a dinner table. Claire gags, Adam lowers his head, I narrow my eyes and Cole hits the dirt. Chicken! It's hilarious - I've said before our life is sort of like a sitcom.
Anyhoo - we appreciate everyone's prayers, this is working. God is performing a miracle everyday she is able to tolerate her dose. Please continue to pray for our travels - lots of time on the road. Also, pray that Claire finds a food that works for this next stage.
Again, thank you all!!!
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
Still at 1ml @25mg
Yesterday was the day we were to increase to 1.5ml. We came home still at 1. God knew, I trust that. Karen, my mother in law, got to come with us this trip. She wanted to see what it was all about, and I got to enjoy her company on the drive.
Claire has been congested for going on 3 weeks. Blowing beautifully colored boogers and a lovely cough. Feels fine, just congested. So we went yesterday with full intention of talking Dr. Silvers into increasing her dose anyway. She hasn't been reacting at this level, so let's keep this going. Once we got there he listened to her chest and said she was wheezing and her asthma flared up. What asthma? She doesn't have asthma. I reminded him that he tested her for that when we first started all of this and she was negative, or whatever it is to NOT have asthma. But, he said, "Yes, but she was healthy when we did that test. This seems to be triggered from her illness." Ok, so we are looking at random asthma. Sweet, I would hate for a visit to be routine.
Dr. Silvers orders a breathing treatment and says for me to update him Thursday. Once the treatment is over he listens again and said to call him in the morning with an update. The albuterol didn't do as much as he was hoping for. Instead of coming home increased and one step closer to the peanut party, we come home with a rx for albuterol and the same dosage. Oh well, we will continue with this dose until it's time to move on.
Claire told her daddy about what the doctor said. "You know how I have eczema on my hands, well it's in my lungs too." No - you have eczema on your hands and booty, asthma in your lungs (airway). She listens - I was impressed with knowing it was about her breathing. We did another breathing treatment and her evening dose. Of course her tongue was itching - this never happens. We wait it out and all is well.
She was up at about 1ish coughing, coughing again around 3ish, etc. Well, I guess I will be calling the dr with the update, knowing this means she will be on a steroid hoping to fix the cough faster. I fix her breakfast drink (no, the food issues have not resolved - she drinks her breakfast) and give her the morning peanut dose. About 10-15 minutes later Cole comes running in to my bathroom saying Claire is throwing up. AWESOME!!!! He hides in the bathroom (smart, bc I don't want him puking too). I run in and she is over the trashcan throwing up, over and over. It was the most I've seen her do. This means that her morning dose is on the floor and in the trash. We can fix this..............
Adam sweetly cleans up the "mess" and I get her and her Rapunzel hair in the shower. I call the answering service and Dr Silvers calls back immediately. He tells me what to do with the dose (give her 1/2) and start her on Prelone 3x day, continue on breathing treatments and to call immediately with any other symptoms.
So, here we sit, at home instead of work and school doing nothing that could get her coughing....only snuggling. Which is her most favorite thing to do. Praying this resolves quickly, and that the new asthma deal is only linked to an illness and not an ongoing fun change!
Like I told my sisters and mom (and Tim), we are fine. I am a little bummed at the development, but we ARE NOT IN ST JUDE. That is how I measure any circumstance with this baby.
Thank you for your prayers!
Claire has been congested for going on 3 weeks. Blowing beautifully colored boogers and a lovely cough. Feels fine, just congested. So we went yesterday with full intention of talking Dr. Silvers into increasing her dose anyway. She hasn't been reacting at this level, so let's keep this going. Once we got there he listened to her chest and said she was wheezing and her asthma flared up. What asthma? She doesn't have asthma. I reminded him that he tested her for that when we first started all of this and she was negative, or whatever it is to NOT have asthma. But, he said, "Yes, but she was healthy when we did that test. This seems to be triggered from her illness." Ok, so we are looking at random asthma. Sweet, I would hate for a visit to be routine.
Dr. Silvers orders a breathing treatment and says for me to update him Thursday. Once the treatment is over he listens again and said to call him in the morning with an update. The albuterol didn't do as much as he was hoping for. Instead of coming home increased and one step closer to the peanut party, we come home with a rx for albuterol and the same dosage. Oh well, we will continue with this dose until it's time to move on.
Claire told her daddy about what the doctor said. "You know how I have eczema on my hands, well it's in my lungs too." No - you have eczema on your hands and booty, asthma in your lungs (airway). She listens - I was impressed with knowing it was about her breathing. We did another breathing treatment and her evening dose. Of course her tongue was itching - this never happens. We wait it out and all is well.
She was up at about 1ish coughing, coughing again around 3ish, etc. Well, I guess I will be calling the dr with the update, knowing this means she will be on a steroid hoping to fix the cough faster. I fix her breakfast drink (no, the food issues have not resolved - she drinks her breakfast) and give her the morning peanut dose. About 10-15 minutes later Cole comes running in to my bathroom saying Claire is throwing up. AWESOME!!!! He hides in the bathroom (smart, bc I don't want him puking too). I run in and she is over the trashcan throwing up, over and over. It was the most I've seen her do. This means that her morning dose is on the floor and in the trash. We can fix this..............
Adam sweetly cleans up the "mess" and I get her and her Rapunzel hair in the shower. I call the answering service and Dr Silvers calls back immediately. He tells me what to do with the dose (give her 1/2) and start her on Prelone 3x day, continue on breathing treatments and to call immediately with any other symptoms.
So, here we sit, at home instead of work and school doing nothing that could get her coughing....only snuggling. Which is her most favorite thing to do. Praying this resolves quickly, and that the new asthma deal is only linked to an illness and not an ongoing fun change!
Like I told my sisters and mom (and Tim), we are fine. I am a little bummed at the development, but we ARE NOT IN ST JUDE. That is how I measure any circumstance with this baby.
Thank you for your prayers!
Saturday, March 7, 2015
25mg
Monday me, Claire, mom and dad went to Dallas to increase. She was 2 weeks on the last dose at this concentrate (2.5mg). This trip was to put Claire at 25mg concentrate. Instead of the 8ml she was dosing at the 2.5, she is to move to 1ml at 25mg. It's confusing, keep up if you'd like. I was extra nervous about this increase because she had reacted off and on through the last 2 weeks. They don't want any reaction. The goal is to increase as her body accepts it. Well, Claire is going to be the exception, not the rule. As she has been from day one.
As we sit in the exam room waiting on the PA, I'm going over and over in my head how I'm going to talk to her about the reactions. She walks in and we start in on the past two weeks. I see her hesitate, and my stomach drops. "I'm hesitant to increase her today, maybe let's keep her here for a couple more weeks." Unacceptable!!! We drove 3 hours to leave with the same dose - absolutely NOT. I will not put my daughter in danger, but neither will just accept someone's opinion against my gut. Now, I'm not necessarily confrontational but I told her I would NOT leave with the same dose. Out of the question. We will find a compromise, period. I talked her into the increase at this new dose for at least 2 weeks, and send us home with her prior dosage if we have to decrease at home. Easy enough. I can totally live with that.
Claire swallows the 25mg like a champ. Mom watches her like a hawk, I can always count on that. So, I could relax during our hour wait, Mom read her a cat book and Dad slept in the chair. I am so stinking grateful for family that will come, much less drive for me. My goodness!!! So, like our previous trips, it was over before we knew it and we were headed home.
Tuesday morning she has an upset stomach. Tuesday evening, stomach better, but not great.. Gave her the med at 6:30, 10 minutes later she's unusually cranky, her throat is burning, itching, chest is tight. LOVELY. This is all my fault, she wasn't ready and I pushed it. I did this! While I was busy praying and beating myself up, she started going the other way. Her body was figuring out what to do with the peanut flour. That is what we want to happen. Claire has such anxiety about life in general a lot of her reaction I believe stems from that as well.
She has had several more reactions, but nothing severe. The drs have said over and over, NO medicine unless we feel we have too. Her body needs time to figure everything out. And by the grace of God, that's what is happening. We are in awe.
I like to assume everyone that reads this has the same questions as I do, so I answer them. For example, how much of a peanut is 25mg exactly. Well, I was smart enough to finally ask this Monday. A single peanut is 600mg. Claire is officially "eating" 1/24 of a peanut. To put this in perspective, she started reacting at 1/240 peanut at the beginning of this journey. This in no way means she is able to eat anything different than peanut free. ONLY. Nothing regarding this has changed. But, God is healing her. Say what you will, but it is the hand of God on her. No question.
I've never been around a child, or adult for that matter, that loves our Lord with her every fiber of her being. She had a paper at school that asked "What do you think is worth more than gold?" Claire's answer was God and Jesus. She proclaims her faith any chance she gets. I have believed from birth that she has a celestial presence. You would have to be around her to understand, but she radiates Christ's love. I don't believe that God would leave any door closed to her. He will heal her, and we will have her peanut party................one day!
As we sit in the exam room waiting on the PA, I'm going over and over in my head how I'm going to talk to her about the reactions. She walks in and we start in on the past two weeks. I see her hesitate, and my stomach drops. "I'm hesitant to increase her today, maybe let's keep her here for a couple more weeks." Unacceptable!!! We drove 3 hours to leave with the same dose - absolutely NOT. I will not put my daughter in danger, but neither will just accept someone's opinion against my gut. Now, I'm not necessarily confrontational but I told her I would NOT leave with the same dose. Out of the question. We will find a compromise, period. I talked her into the increase at this new dose for at least 2 weeks, and send us home with her prior dosage if we have to decrease at home. Easy enough. I can totally live with that.
Claire swallows the 25mg like a champ. Mom watches her like a hawk, I can always count on that. So, I could relax during our hour wait, Mom read her a cat book and Dad slept in the chair. I am so stinking grateful for family that will come, much less drive for me. My goodness!!! So, like our previous trips, it was over before we knew it and we were headed home.
Tuesday morning she has an upset stomach. Tuesday evening, stomach better, but not great.. Gave her the med at 6:30, 10 minutes later she's unusually cranky, her throat is burning, itching, chest is tight. LOVELY. This is all my fault, she wasn't ready and I pushed it. I did this! While I was busy praying and beating myself up, she started going the other way. Her body was figuring out what to do with the peanut flour. That is what we want to happen. Claire has such anxiety about life in general a lot of her reaction I believe stems from that as well.
She has had several more reactions, but nothing severe. The drs have said over and over, NO medicine unless we feel we have too. Her body needs time to figure everything out. And by the grace of God, that's what is happening. We are in awe.
I like to assume everyone that reads this has the same questions as I do, so I answer them. For example, how much of a peanut is 25mg exactly. Well, I was smart enough to finally ask this Monday. A single peanut is 600mg. Claire is officially "eating" 1/24 of a peanut. To put this in perspective, she started reacting at 1/240 peanut at the beginning of this journey. This in no way means she is able to eat anything different than peanut free. ONLY. Nothing regarding this has changed. But, God is healing her. Say what you will, but it is the hand of God on her. No question.
I've never been around a child, or adult for that matter, that loves our Lord with her every fiber of her being. She had a paper at school that asked "What do you think is worth more than gold?" Claire's answer was God and Jesus. She proclaims her faith any chance she gets. I have believed from birth that she has a celestial presence. You would have to be around her to understand, but she radiates Christ's love. I don't believe that God would leave any door closed to her. He will heal her, and we will have her peanut party................one day!
Thursday, February 19, 2015
8ml
Tuesday was our last visit. Claire is to 8 ml at 2.5 mg concentrate. This is the last dose increase at this concentrate. Next week it will be 1ml at 25mg. Sounds like a big jump, but the math works out right. I say all that not knowing if we will even increase next week. Claire is reacting at each dose. Yesterday it was a swollen itchy lip and stomach cramps. This morning it was diarrhea, and cramps. Not a virus because it's different and the timing. Hard to explain. Anyway, spoke to her allergist and he wants to know how tomorrow goes, that will decide if we go back to 6ml or stay the course at 8ml.
This week my brother and sister (in law) rode with us. SO MUCH FUN. I laughed the whole time. Not just at Britny's expense, but a little!! I so appreciate my family's willingness to help in anyway possible. I know this isn't hard to most, it's a trip to Dallas, but for me (us) it is huge. The 3 hours there I am so stressed she will react, the way home I am wondering if this was the right decision. God has led us so far. He will continue, the doors have all been opened for us, so we will continue.
Even as I type I am reminded of a childhood friend who is dealing with her daughter fighting Cystic Fibrosis. She is working towards getting a double lung transplant. He daughter is 11 I think, too young to deal with anything remotely like this. I pray for her daily, we are dealing with food and this friend must feel like she has the world on her shoulders. I ask anyone reading to pray for her as well. My friends name is Amanda, I'm not sure if she would want her whole name here. I'll ask, maybe put her go fund me link here.
I'm cutting this one short, not too much to say. Hopefully more to say after next weeks increase! Thank you again for your prayers.
This week my brother and sister (in law) rode with us. SO MUCH FUN. I laughed the whole time. Not just at Britny's expense, but a little!! I so appreciate my family's willingness to help in anyway possible. I know this isn't hard to most, it's a trip to Dallas, but for me (us) it is huge. The 3 hours there I am so stressed she will react, the way home I am wondering if this was the right decision. God has led us so far. He will continue, the doors have all been opened for us, so we will continue.
Even as I type I am reminded of a childhood friend who is dealing with her daughter fighting Cystic Fibrosis. She is working towards getting a double lung transplant. He daughter is 11 I think, too young to deal with anything remotely like this. I pray for her daily, we are dealing with food and this friend must feel like she has the world on her shoulders. I ask anyone reading to pray for her as well. My friends name is Amanda, I'm not sure if she would want her whole name here. I'll ask, maybe put her go fund me link here.
I'm cutting this one short, not too much to say. Hopefully more to say after next weeks increase! Thank you again for your prayers.
Thursday, February 12, 2015
6ml
I am so sorry for the late post. It's been 2 weeks of busy. We had to skip last week because Claire had a little sinus infection going on. They will not up her dose if she is the slightest bit sick. She is more likely to have a reaction with any type of illness. So we went Tuesday.
Tuesday I believe will be our new day of choice, Claire gets 3 hours of school, I can cram in 4 hours of work and we make it home at bedtime and ready for Wednesday. It's exhausting, but it doesn't take over an entire day of school/work like Fridays do. Anyway, we headed off to Dallas Tuesday for her first increase in 2 weeks. My sister Bethany was with us, Adam had bids to get out. Bethany was a huge help with Claire, and keeping me awake for the day. We get to Medical City, totally uneventful. No wrong turns, one way streets, tickets, nothing! I was super proud. I'm the wife that's not allowed out after dark because Adam is fairly positive I would get lost.
While we are there we see a friend we made from our LONG day, Dezi. He's darling. I like the mom, she's super sweet and easy to talk to. We made a date for next Tuesday, same time, same place. The drs bumped Claire up to 6ml @ 2.5mg concentrate. wahoo! Should be about 4 more liquid dose increases and them we are to the capsules that you empty into food. Not so much looking forward to that!
You know, as ecstatic as I am to have my Claire safe from peanuts in just a few short months, it is a really odd feeling. I've been a peanut allergy mom for 5 years, I don't remember parenting when our lives didn't revolve around this. Of course we will be Epi-Pen carriers for the rest of her life, but the daily/minute to minute fear will be gone. It's almost like losing your identity. All I know is protecting her. Obviously I protect my son in the normal "mama" way. But with Claire it is painfully different. She and I share a different relationship, it's almost a life line. I have to admit, it's a life line that goes both ways. Before her I didn't know what being a true mama was. Cole was so easy. Slept all night at 6 weeks, and in a big boy bed at 2. Potty trained at 3, ate solid food from the get go. He was like a pretend baby. God knew I couldn't handle a challenge at 23. I was doggy paddling and I needed a baby that I could love and not need to do much else. Claire came as a challenge from day one, we have learned and grown together. Adam and Cole have been our constant balance. This will be a huge change for them too. I will have to shift my mothering I think. It will be more freeing for sure, but terrifying to say the least. It would be nice to assume this is a completely normal feeling, but I'm really doubting others feel this way.
On a lighter note, Claire tried jumping on a soccer ball Sunday afternoon and landed on her wrist. Green stick fracture on her left arm. She will only wear the cast/splint for 2 weeks. That child has whined about her arm itching every other breath. Thank God it's only 2 weeks. A friend of mine (Crystal)'s daughter broke both bones in her arm yesterday. That baby will be in a cast for a while. Poor thing. The best part was tonight at Jujitsu Cole had a kid crunch down on his finger. AWESOME. Adam called, I picked him up and he cried, and cried and cried. Ok, do I go home and get him calmed down? Do I send him to school tomorrow telling him he's fine and suck it up? It's his right ring finger, which is a pretty important finger for writing. So, off to Velocity for an x-ray. I know there's not much to do for a broken finger, but a splint or something to protect it maybe. When the dr came in and looked at Cole's tear stained face and then over to me holding Claire with a cast on her arm - all she could do was laugh. I assured her that calling Child Protective Services was completely not needed. But it sure does look suspicious - 2 casts in 5 days. Luckily it's not a broken bone, just a deep bruise.
I'm not 100% sure what I'm supposed to write about on here, but I found myself today wanting to type. I guess get everything swimming in my head out in the open. Please note that I do not always proof read every word I type, so go easy on the grammar. And, I am not a writer, by any stretch of the imagination. If it sounds like babbling, it's because that's how it comes out - sorry.
Tuesday I believe will be our new day of choice, Claire gets 3 hours of school, I can cram in 4 hours of work and we make it home at bedtime and ready for Wednesday. It's exhausting, but it doesn't take over an entire day of school/work like Fridays do. Anyway, we headed off to Dallas Tuesday for her first increase in 2 weeks. My sister Bethany was with us, Adam had bids to get out. Bethany was a huge help with Claire, and keeping me awake for the day. We get to Medical City, totally uneventful. No wrong turns, one way streets, tickets, nothing! I was super proud. I'm the wife that's not allowed out after dark because Adam is fairly positive I would get lost.
While we are there we see a friend we made from our LONG day, Dezi. He's darling. I like the mom, she's super sweet and easy to talk to. We made a date for next Tuesday, same time, same place. The drs bumped Claire up to 6ml @ 2.5mg concentrate. wahoo! Should be about 4 more liquid dose increases and them we are to the capsules that you empty into food. Not so much looking forward to that!
You know, as ecstatic as I am to have my Claire safe from peanuts in just a few short months, it is a really odd feeling. I've been a peanut allergy mom for 5 years, I don't remember parenting when our lives didn't revolve around this. Of course we will be Epi-Pen carriers for the rest of her life, but the daily/minute to minute fear will be gone. It's almost like losing your identity. All I know is protecting her. Obviously I protect my son in the normal "mama" way. But with Claire it is painfully different. She and I share a different relationship, it's almost a life line. I have to admit, it's a life line that goes both ways. Before her I didn't know what being a true mama was. Cole was so easy. Slept all night at 6 weeks, and in a big boy bed at 2. Potty trained at 3, ate solid food from the get go. He was like a pretend baby. God knew I couldn't handle a challenge at 23. I was doggy paddling and I needed a baby that I could love and not need to do much else. Claire came as a challenge from day one, we have learned and grown together. Adam and Cole have been our constant balance. This will be a huge change for them too. I will have to shift my mothering I think. It will be more freeing for sure, but terrifying to say the least. It would be nice to assume this is a completely normal feeling, but I'm really doubting others feel this way.
On a lighter note, Claire tried jumping on a soccer ball Sunday afternoon and landed on her wrist. Green stick fracture on her left arm. She will only wear the cast/splint for 2 weeks. That child has whined about her arm itching every other breath. Thank God it's only 2 weeks. A friend of mine (Crystal)'s daughter broke both bones in her arm yesterday. That baby will be in a cast for a while. Poor thing. The best part was tonight at Jujitsu Cole had a kid crunch down on his finger. AWESOME. Adam called, I picked him up and he cried, and cried and cried. Ok, do I go home and get him calmed down? Do I send him to school tomorrow telling him he's fine and suck it up? It's his right ring finger, which is a pretty important finger for writing. So, off to Velocity for an x-ray. I know there's not much to do for a broken finger, but a splint or something to protect it maybe. When the dr came in and looked at Cole's tear stained face and then over to me holding Claire with a cast on her arm - all she could do was laugh. I assured her that calling Child Protective Services was completely not needed. But it sure does look suspicious - 2 casts in 5 days. Luckily it's not a broken bone, just a deep bruise.
I'm not 100% sure what I'm supposed to write about on here, but I found myself today wanting to type. I guess get everything swimming in my head out in the open. Please note that I do not always proof read every word I type, so go easy on the grammar. And, I am not a writer, by any stretch of the imagination. If it sounds like babbling, it's because that's how it comes out - sorry.
Friday, January 30, 2015
We are officially increased. Claire is now at 4ml with 2.5mg concentrate. In other words one step closer, but still very far from an actual peanut. According to their protocol we will increase to 6ml, 8ml, 10ml, then increase the concentrate and go through 3 increases there. So, a total of 6 more liquid increases. After that we will be given capsules, not to swallow but to empty. 5 weeks of that and then we are to an actual honest to goodness peanut. If all goes according to "plan" that could be in 11 weeks. BLOWS MY MIND!!!!!
While we were there monitoring her (no reaction at all today!), there was another family there. The boy was probably Cole's age (10ish), girl about Claire's age (6ish) and the mama. Of course in the food allergy world, we are all friends. There are zero off limit questions. Every child is different, we all need to know what the other may have discovered. That and I'm turning into my mother. Anyway.............. He was up to 2 peanuts now. She was able to tell us about their journey to that point. He developed EOE (a severe problem with your esophagus causing profuse vomiting) and that set him back. They lowered the dose, got a handle on the EOE and began increasing again. She was so sweet to spill her guts to us. We were just absorbing every word she said, it gave us hope. He doesn't have a peanut table at school, they have peanuts in the house, he can HOLD a peanut and NOT DIE!!! Jaw dropping revelation. Never thought about that part, she can hold them, even if she hates them, they will not have the power to kill her. We are atleast 11 weeks from that point, but we are miles from where we were this time last year.
Oh, the most interesting part about this encounter, they fly in from California every week. Every single week. They moved to Texas during the summer, but had to move back when school began. I'm complaining about having to work extra at my job during the week to drive 2 1/2 hours one way and back. She has to drive 2 hours to the airport for a 3 hour flight. I suck! God put that clearly in my face. I was feeling sorry for myself because I'm tired, my house isn't clean, laundry isn't done, you can forget about cooking. And all I have to do is drive 1 day. Dang. So very thankful God allowed us to live so close to help. What a nod to the clinic if they are flying that far every week. Another assurance we are in the right place.
The woman did assure me that she still freaks out every time he touches, holds, ingests a peanut. That was a relief, I thought I was just crazy and controlling. And maybe I am, but I think allergy moms have that in common. You are confronted with the fact that you could lose your child at any moment someone isn't paying attention. And the older they get, the harder it is. Thank God she is in His hands, and He trusts us to take care of her here.
Side note, none of this could be possible without my parents and Adam's parents. They go over and above to make sure everything with Cole and everything with Rimmer Electric are taken care of. We are able to focus on why we are there and what we are doing.
One more high five for Mrs. Milligan and Mrs. Allen, there are no words for how these two have bent over backwards to make sure my children are safe, just like they do for every other child at that school.
I just wanted to let everyone know what was going on, and say a couple thank you's. Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!
While we were there monitoring her (no reaction at all today!), there was another family there. The boy was probably Cole's age (10ish), girl about Claire's age (6ish) and the mama. Of course in the food allergy world, we are all friends. There are zero off limit questions. Every child is different, we all need to know what the other may have discovered. That and I'm turning into my mother. Anyway.............. He was up to 2 peanuts now. She was able to tell us about their journey to that point. He developed EOE (a severe problem with your esophagus causing profuse vomiting) and that set him back. They lowered the dose, got a handle on the EOE and began increasing again. She was so sweet to spill her guts to us. We were just absorbing every word she said, it gave us hope. He doesn't have a peanut table at school, they have peanuts in the house, he can HOLD a peanut and NOT DIE!!! Jaw dropping revelation. Never thought about that part, she can hold them, even if she hates them, they will not have the power to kill her. We are atleast 11 weeks from that point, but we are miles from where we were this time last year.
Oh, the most interesting part about this encounter, they fly in from California every week. Every single week. They moved to Texas during the summer, but had to move back when school began. I'm complaining about having to work extra at my job during the week to drive 2 1/2 hours one way and back. She has to drive 2 hours to the airport for a 3 hour flight. I suck! God put that clearly in my face. I was feeling sorry for myself because I'm tired, my house isn't clean, laundry isn't done, you can forget about cooking. And all I have to do is drive 1 day. Dang. So very thankful God allowed us to live so close to help. What a nod to the clinic if they are flying that far every week. Another assurance we are in the right place.
The woman did assure me that she still freaks out every time he touches, holds, ingests a peanut. That was a relief, I thought I was just crazy and controlling. And maybe I am, but I think allergy moms have that in common. You are confronted with the fact that you could lose your child at any moment someone isn't paying attention. And the older they get, the harder it is. Thank God she is in His hands, and He trusts us to take care of her here.
Side note, none of this could be possible without my parents and Adam's parents. They go over and above to make sure everything with Cole and everything with Rimmer Electric are taken care of. We are able to focus on why we are there and what we are doing.
One more high five for Mrs. Milligan and Mrs. Allen, there are no words for how these two have bent over backwards to make sure my children are safe, just like they do for every other child at that school.
I just wanted to let everyone know what was going on, and say a couple thank you's. Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
Late Post - Sorry
So very sorry for the late post. It has just been a crazy weekend and now the kids are back in school and we are back in a routine from our (their) 4 day weekend.
Now for the followup OIT, she did great. Of course super nervous, but handled it so well. The doctor came in and examined her, she of course looked at him like he had a frog on his head. Still not a fan of men! Fine with me. He said everything seemed good. He said, "ok, you've been on 2ml for the week, it's time to bump it to 4ml." No, she reacted to the 2ml she was bumped DOWN to 1ml for the week. There's no way we are already moving to 4ml. Her chart noted it. He apologized a lot, several several times. And said over and over how he didn't know how it happened and would get to the bottom of it. Thankful me and Adam were both paying attention. Could have made for a much longer trip.
At the correct dose her ears started bothering her, throat itched, cheeks turned red......sweet. Doctor was not concerned, as long as she could tolerate the discomfort. That's what I LOVE, they do not freak out there. They take it all in stride and help me to breathe.
We are now on day 4 of the 2ml and seem to be doing great. I'm going to ask the doctor, but she seems to get really hyper about 10-15 min after taking it. Not sure if that is connected or not.
Asked about her new class 2 Hazelnut allergy. He said since she's been eating it, he didn't see a need to take her off of it. Well, me being the well educated physician that I am, I am taking her off of Nutella myself. The Chocolate Soy butter came in last night. I'm going to sneak that in for the week and see if that will clean up her eczema. If it does yay - if not, we haven't lost anything.
We are skipping this week and giving her a full 2 weeks on this dose before we go back. Probably we will go to the 4ml, I want her body to have plenty of time to adjust.
Side note, the allergist is on the same floor as the pediatrician. We get off the elevator and look at the ped office. Have to walk past the sick kids, breathing their sick air, to get to our room. I am looking forward to skipping that part for a week. And there's a giant whale downstairs that the kids discovered and think it's the most fun thing ever. Climbing all over, on the floor, etc. i was disgusted. How did i give birth to children who would roll on a hospital floor and play with hospital toys. i just just ready to scream!! GROSS!!!! Flu would be the best case scenario.
Anyway, thank you for reading, and praying.
Now for the followup OIT, she did great. Of course super nervous, but handled it so well. The doctor came in and examined her, she of course looked at him like he had a frog on his head. Still not a fan of men! Fine with me. He said everything seemed good. He said, "ok, you've been on 2ml for the week, it's time to bump it to 4ml." No, she reacted to the 2ml she was bumped DOWN to 1ml for the week. There's no way we are already moving to 4ml. Her chart noted it. He apologized a lot, several several times. And said over and over how he didn't know how it happened and would get to the bottom of it. Thankful me and Adam were both paying attention. Could have made for a much longer trip.
At the correct dose her ears started bothering her, throat itched, cheeks turned red......sweet. Doctor was not concerned, as long as she could tolerate the discomfort. That's what I LOVE, they do not freak out there. They take it all in stride and help me to breathe.
We are now on day 4 of the 2ml and seem to be doing great. I'm going to ask the doctor, but she seems to get really hyper about 10-15 min after taking it. Not sure if that is connected or not.
Asked about her new class 2 Hazelnut allergy. He said since she's been eating it, he didn't see a need to take her off of it. Well, me being the well educated physician that I am, I am taking her off of Nutella myself. The Chocolate Soy butter came in last night. I'm going to sneak that in for the week and see if that will clean up her eczema. If it does yay - if not, we haven't lost anything.
We are skipping this week and giving her a full 2 weeks on this dose before we go back. Probably we will go to the 4ml, I want her body to have plenty of time to adjust.
Side note, the allergist is on the same floor as the pediatrician. We get off the elevator and look at the ped office. Have to walk past the sick kids, breathing their sick air, to get to our room. I am looking forward to skipping that part for a week. And there's a giant whale downstairs that the kids discovered and think it's the most fun thing ever. Climbing all over, on the floor, etc. i was disgusted. How did i give birth to children who would roll on a hospital floor and play with hospital toys. i just just ready to scream!! GROSS!!!! Flu would be the best case scenario.
Anyway, thank you for reading, and praying.
Monday, January 12, 2015
5 days down....
Today marks the fifth full day Claire has been on her current dose. I haven't noticed any side effects, we are truly blessed. Our next appointment is Friday, taking advantage of a day off school. Back to Dallas we go.
I received her lab results today, the allergists office has a patient portal. EVERYTHING is uploaded, no waiting for results. I looked at them, of course she's allergic to peanut, from what I remember the numbers are about the same as they were 2 years ago. She has now developed a class 2 allergy to hazelnut. Of all things! Claire has food aversions (putting it lightly), this does not mean she's a picky eater, this means she gets sick at certain textures and smells. Nutella is a staple and she's developing an allergy to it. Awesome!!! Could have something to do with the eczema that has taken over her hands. We will discuss with the doctor Friday. Back to her results to peanut. From what I remembered this morning the numbers were about the same, until I got home and had them in front of me to compare. Her allergy has doubled in numbers. The numbers evaluate how her immune system will react. Let's say I had gotten these results on my own, away from starting the OIT program......I probably would be on the floor in a puddle like I was the first time I found out. However, with the results in my hand I feel like it is God confirming our steps. What others intended for evil (not really evil just selfishness) God is using for good. He knew her numbers were increasing meaning she was becoming more severe (if that's possible). He allowed hurtful things to be said and done to show us the direction we were to go. I am so thankful for His never ending love.
Please don't get me wrong, I know there are millions, billions of families out there dealing with things worse than food allergies. But this is our world, and I wanted to share our journey in it and through it. Know my heart, I would never write any of this to whine. This is not where I vent, this is where I explain. I think that's the best word. There are so many people who thankfully love my Claire and want to know every detail, this tells the story.
On another note, we spent all weekend finishing Cole's science fair project. I told mama Saturday that Satan is truly the father of lies and projects. It is just a fact! I was so happy for him to take the dang thing to school today. It was stressing me more than him......nothing phases that boy. He is coming with us to Dallas Friday. He wasn't thrilled but I talked to him in the car and told him about the Nutella thing, "oh mom! She only eats Nutella. I'll help you figure out what to do." These are the words from my sweet boy. He may only be 9 but he is going to grow to be a fine man.
I have had several families private message me on Facebook asking how this was going b/c they have an allergy baby. This is by far the best decision we have made as a family. I still cannot wrap my head around it, but I knew and refused to accept the fact that a peanut could take my child from me. This is letting us see there is light at the end of this tunnel, God provided a way. Looking back at all the things in our life He put in place is almost laughable. He really does have a plan and it is so much better than I could have dreamed. Again, thank you all for your prayers and support. Keep them coming, Friday they will increase her dose.......I'll let you know how it goes.
I received her lab results today, the allergists office has a patient portal. EVERYTHING is uploaded, no waiting for results. I looked at them, of course she's allergic to peanut, from what I remember the numbers are about the same as they were 2 years ago. She has now developed a class 2 allergy to hazelnut. Of all things! Claire has food aversions (putting it lightly), this does not mean she's a picky eater, this means she gets sick at certain textures and smells. Nutella is a staple and she's developing an allergy to it. Awesome!!! Could have something to do with the eczema that has taken over her hands. We will discuss with the doctor Friday. Back to her results to peanut. From what I remembered this morning the numbers were about the same, until I got home and had them in front of me to compare. Her allergy has doubled in numbers. The numbers evaluate how her immune system will react. Let's say I had gotten these results on my own, away from starting the OIT program......I probably would be on the floor in a puddle like I was the first time I found out. However, with the results in my hand I feel like it is God confirming our steps. What others intended for evil (not really evil just selfishness) God is using for good. He knew her numbers were increasing meaning she was becoming more severe (if that's possible). He allowed hurtful things to be said and done to show us the direction we were to go. I am so thankful for His never ending love.
Please don't get me wrong, I know there are millions, billions of families out there dealing with things worse than food allergies. But this is our world, and I wanted to share our journey in it and through it. Know my heart, I would never write any of this to whine. This is not where I vent, this is where I explain. I think that's the best word. There are so many people who thankfully love my Claire and want to know every detail, this tells the story.
On another note, we spent all weekend finishing Cole's science fair project. I told mama Saturday that Satan is truly the father of lies and projects. It is just a fact! I was so happy for him to take the dang thing to school today. It was stressing me more than him......nothing phases that boy. He is coming with us to Dallas Friday. He wasn't thrilled but I talked to him in the car and told him about the Nutella thing, "oh mom! She only eats Nutella. I'll help you figure out what to do." These are the words from my sweet boy. He may only be 9 but he is going to grow to be a fine man.
I have had several families private message me on Facebook asking how this was going b/c they have an allergy baby. This is by far the best decision we have made as a family. I still cannot wrap my head around it, but I knew and refused to accept the fact that a peanut could take my child from me. This is letting us see there is light at the end of this tunnel, God provided a way. Looking back at all the things in our life He put in place is almost laughable. He really does have a plan and it is so much better than I could have dreamed. Again, thank you all for your prayers and support. Keep them coming, Friday they will increase her dose.......I'll let you know how it goes.
Thursday, January 8, 2015
Day One Done!!!!
We woke up this morning in Dallas and headed out to Mid City Hospital for Claire's full day of OIT. This was the day to see what she's able to do. I honestly had complete peace. There was no nervousness, no anxiety, nothing. Claire on the other hand had a pretty nervous stomach at first. She was so scared they would insist on a skin test again. Thankfully they didn't.
Because of her anaphylactic reaction to the skin test this summer they started her at 1/2 the dose of what they would normally do. Every dose they do is repeated once. So, this dose was given to her twice 15 minutes apart. I held my breath for the first dose, and of course watched her like a hawk. NOTHING, nothing happened. I was immediately encouraged.
We were in a large room with very comfortable recliners with 3 other families doing the same thing. All boys! Once she was able to handle the first 2 "mini" doses they brought the other kids in so they could all be on the same schedule.
Every 15 minutes the nurse went around with one dose, then the same amount repeated, then increased. This went on for hours, no reaction. At the last 2 hours (4 more doses) Claire's stomach started to cramp, face flushed, just didn't feel well, throat itchy. So the nurse decided we should sit out a round. And that's what we did. Gave her body a break, watched a movie and snuggled. When the buzzer went off for the next time Claire was feeling better. She was feeling better so we went on. One the last dose of the day her stomach was really hurting a few hives starting on her face, and flushed. Now we had to go into the observation room. Claire was heavy and gagged a little, but the nurses didn't freak out (so thankful for them). They checked her vitals and let her just lay down. We did this for about 30 minutes. When it was time to go, she was feeling much better. Like her happy, talking self.
The nurse gave us our instructions, only took 8 hours to get to this part. Claire will now be given 1 ml twice a day. They were hoping to get her to 2 ml twice a day, but her body isn't ready. It truly amazes me how God designed our body to warn without panic. Just a subtle "that's all I can do". And that's exactly what her body did.
It was now time to go downstairs to the lab for her blood work (which we didn't know we had to do!!!). She was so brave, sat there with her head buried and let them take 3 vials. NOT ONE TEAR!
That's it. First day. In the books. Already gave her the dose for tonight and ready for bed. So thankful for your prayers. This will be ongoing for the next 6 months at least, so keep them coming.
Because of her anaphylactic reaction to the skin test this summer they started her at 1/2 the dose of what they would normally do. Every dose they do is repeated once. So, this dose was given to her twice 15 minutes apart. I held my breath for the first dose, and of course watched her like a hawk. NOTHING, nothing happened. I was immediately encouraged.
We were in a large room with very comfortable recliners with 3 other families doing the same thing. All boys! Once she was able to handle the first 2 "mini" doses they brought the other kids in so they could all be on the same schedule.
Every 15 minutes the nurse went around with one dose, then the same amount repeated, then increased. This went on for hours, no reaction. At the last 2 hours (4 more doses) Claire's stomach started to cramp, face flushed, just didn't feel well, throat itchy. So the nurse decided we should sit out a round. And that's what we did. Gave her body a break, watched a movie and snuggled. When the buzzer went off for the next time Claire was feeling better. She was feeling better so we went on. One the last dose of the day her stomach was really hurting a few hives starting on her face, and flushed. Now we had to go into the observation room. Claire was heavy and gagged a little, but the nurses didn't freak out (so thankful for them). They checked her vitals and let her just lay down. We did this for about 30 minutes. When it was time to go, she was feeling much better. Like her happy, talking self.
The nurse gave us our instructions, only took 8 hours to get to this part. Claire will now be given 1 ml twice a day. They were hoping to get her to 2 ml twice a day, but her body isn't ready. It truly amazes me how God designed our body to warn without panic. Just a subtle "that's all I can do". And that's exactly what her body did.
It was now time to go downstairs to the lab for her blood work (which we didn't know we had to do!!!). She was so brave, sat there with her head buried and let them take 3 vials. NOT ONE TEAR!
That's it. First day. In the books. Already gave her the dose for tonight and ready for bed. So thankful for your prayers. This will be ongoing for the next 6 months at least, so keep them coming.
Wednesday, January 7, 2015
We left tonight headed to Dallas to spend the night (thank you Tim and Britny) and wake up for our very first day! Nervous, excited, overwhelmed...... Lots of feelings really. Gratitude has to be the strongest. I posted this blog link on Facebook and was shocked at the response from comments and texts and calls. Our family is covered in prayer! We are so thankful.
Claire told her class today where she was going tomorrow and what she was going to do. Somehow it got a little twisted in the 1st grade minds. One text I received was, "Claire's not coming back til 5th grade!!" No, Claire will be back Monday morning, bright and shiny!! I was so impressed that Claire had the bravery to tell her friends. If you know her at all, this is very surprising. There are tons of people that love her and have NEVER heard her voice. For her to stand up gives me even more peace about this decision. God is honestly going before us. And that today is proof.
After re-reading my post last night I noticed that I only mentioned my son ONCE. Oh my! He is my heart, and he vital to Claire. God knew exactly what He was doing when He gave us Cole Knox first. Cole has grown up to be such a blessing and truly Claire's protector. They may fight like cats and dogs at times, but he won't let ANYONE else do it. He came with us to the initial meeting because this involves all of us, he needed to hear it just like we did. Cole will stay with Nana so he doesn't miss school and we need to only focus on Claire tomorrow. But, he will be with us for the majority of the other visits.
Cole is a typical 4th grade boy. Loves all sports, loves all games, loves reading, and of course movies. He is growing so fast, and always seems to be hungry! Cole bleeds purple and gold, has the fathead on his wall to prove it. And just below the fathead is his snake "Moo". Actually he's named King David, but I call him Moo because he's black and white like a milk cow! God blessed Cole with a brilliant mind and a very loving, tender heart. Once I figure our how to add more photos I'll post some of him too! He's so pretty.
I will update more tomorrow - when there is actually something to say. Please pray for us. I've said this 100 times but, God promises us to use everything for good to those who love Him. I promise you no one loves Jesus like Claire does. He is her best friend and we trust her to Him.
Thank you again for all the support.
Claire told her class today where she was going tomorrow and what she was going to do. Somehow it got a little twisted in the 1st grade minds. One text I received was, "Claire's not coming back til 5th grade!!" No, Claire will be back Monday morning, bright and shiny!! I was so impressed that Claire had the bravery to tell her friends. If you know her at all, this is very surprising. There are tons of people that love her and have NEVER heard her voice. For her to stand up gives me even more peace about this decision. God is honestly going before us. And that today is proof.
After re-reading my post last night I noticed that I only mentioned my son ONCE. Oh my! He is my heart, and he vital to Claire. God knew exactly what He was doing when He gave us Cole Knox first. Cole has grown up to be such a blessing and truly Claire's protector. They may fight like cats and dogs at times, but he won't let ANYONE else do it. He came with us to the initial meeting because this involves all of us, he needed to hear it just like we did. Cole will stay with Nana so he doesn't miss school and we need to only focus on Claire tomorrow. But, he will be with us for the majority of the other visits.
Cole is a typical 4th grade boy. Loves all sports, loves all games, loves reading, and of course movies. He is growing so fast, and always seems to be hungry! Cole bleeds purple and gold, has the fathead on his wall to prove it. And just below the fathead is his snake "Moo". Actually he's named King David, but I call him Moo because he's black and white like a milk cow! God blessed Cole with a brilliant mind and a very loving, tender heart. Once I figure our how to add more photos I'll post some of him too! He's so pretty.
I will update more tomorrow - when there is actually something to say. Please pray for us. I've said this 100 times but, God promises us to use everything for good to those who love Him. I promise you no one loves Jesus like Claire does. He is her best friend and we trust her to Him.
Thank you again for all the support.
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
Back Story
If you are new to the Peanut adventure we have been on for the last 5 years, here's a quick recap. Claire was diagnosed at 18 months with a life threatening peanut & shellfish allergy. She doesn't remember a life without epi-pens and benedryl. And honestly, neither do I.
Every year we go to the "peanut walk" - it's a food allergy awareness walk sponsored by F.A.R.E http://www.foodallergy.org/. in Dallas, Texas. They have vendors there with allergy friendly foods, epi-pen reps, auvi-q reps, and local allergist. The last 3 years I have stopped and spoken to Dallas Allergy & Immunology about Oral Immunotherapy (a process used to desensitize people to their specific food allergy). After speaking to them several times I made an appointment, then cancelled it because I was scared. This happened a couple more times. I just couldn't think about giving my daughter the substance that could potentially kill her. Even if it is at a safe place that has done this hundreds of times before.
We are beyond fortunate to attend an elementary school that adores our children. They are very allergy friendly and even attempted to be peanut free. Because of some discussion among only a couple of mamas, the school board let us know we could not continue on as a "peanut free" school. Claire now sits at a peanut free table in the cafeteria. I am so thankful for administration who wants so badly to protect our children. This has worked out better than we thought possible. Claire feels more safe there, and is really enjoying it. However, with the change in the "peanut free" policy, this led Adam and I further pursue the OIT (oral immunotherapy) in Dallas.
In December we took Claire and Cole (our beautiful 9 year old) to Dallas to meet Dr. Silvers. He is a very sweet, knowledgeable, patient doctor. He took his time with us and answered EVERY question. On our way home from the visit Adam and I decided this was the place God would have us go to help Claire.
I called January 2 and Dallas Allergy had an opening for t
he FIRST REAL day on January 8th. So happy it was close and we could get it over with soon! The first day is the day we show up at 8:15 am and stay until 3 or 4 pm. The plan is to give her a fraction of a microgram of peanut flour in koolaid, then gradually increase it until they reach Claire's threshold.
Now - Claire had an anaphylactic reaction to her peanut skin test over the summer which is very rare. So, of course we are a little apprehensive about the initial dose and reaching her threshold. Once the threshold is met we will take that dose home and administer it 2 times a day for the next 2 week until our next visit. This will continue until she reaches 24 whole peanuts as her dose. That can take up to a year to get to.
So, as an outlet for me and Claire, we will keep you updated on her progress! We leave tomorrow afternoon for Dallas and will be at Dallas Allergy Thursday morning to begin the exciting and very scary journey! Please keep us all in your prayers.
For more information on OIT go to http://www.dallasallergy.net/
Every year we go to the "peanut walk" - it's a food allergy awareness walk sponsored by F.A.R.E http://www.foodallergy.org/. in Dallas, Texas. They have vendors there with allergy friendly foods, epi-pen reps, auvi-q reps, and local allergist. The last 3 years I have stopped and spoken to Dallas Allergy & Immunology about Oral Immunotherapy (a process used to desensitize people to their specific food allergy). After speaking to them several times I made an appointment, then cancelled it because I was scared. This happened a couple more times. I just couldn't think about giving my daughter the substance that could potentially kill her. Even if it is at a safe place that has done this hundreds of times before.
We are beyond fortunate to attend an elementary school that adores our children. They are very allergy friendly and even attempted to be peanut free. Because of some discussion among only a couple of mamas, the school board let us know we could not continue on as a "peanut free" school. Claire now sits at a peanut free table in the cafeteria. I am so thankful for administration who wants so badly to protect our children. This has worked out better than we thought possible. Claire feels more safe there, and is really enjoying it. However, with the change in the "peanut free" policy, this led Adam and I further pursue the OIT (oral immunotherapy) in Dallas.
In December we took Claire and Cole (our beautiful 9 year old) to Dallas to meet Dr. Silvers. He is a very sweet, knowledgeable, patient doctor. He took his time with us and answered EVERY question. On our way home from the visit Adam and I decided this was the place God would have us go to help Claire.
I called January 2 and Dallas Allergy had an opening for t
Now - Claire had an anaphylactic reaction to her peanut skin test over the summer which is very rare. So, of course we are a little apprehensive about the initial dose and reaching her threshold. Once the threshold is met we will take that dose home and administer it 2 times a day for the next 2 week until our next visit. This will continue until she reaches 24 whole peanuts as her dose. That can take up to a year to get to.
So, as an outlet for me and Claire, we will keep you updated on her progress! We leave tomorrow afternoon for Dallas and will be at Dallas Allergy Thursday morning to begin the exciting and very scary journey! Please keep us all in your prayers.
For more information on OIT go to http://www.dallasallergy.net/
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