1. Living with multiple allergies Finding answers... By Ruth Holroyd http://www.whatallergy.com Houses of Parliament, Allergy Group, 16 th Oct 2013

2. Why are we here today? A bit about me Being on the allergic march... Allergic reactions and reality of avoidance A snapshot of daily life of... Eating out, holidays etc. My greatest bugbears Counting blessings – the good What can we all do?

3. A bit about me today Freelance marketing support and copywriter Blog www.whatallergy.comwww.whatallergy.com Allergy Support Group and event support Judging freefrom food awards and skincare awards AllergyWise course Weekly flood of requests for advice and help AND I’M NOT A DOCTOR!

4. Being on the allergic march......a brief history Born 1973 – chronic eczema, atopic child, hay fever, allergy to cats, dogs, horses, dust etc. causing asthma 10’s - Peanut and egg allergy – “don’t eat them!” 20’s – ongoing eczema, cutting out food – success! Can eat egg 30’s - Anaphylaxis to nuts, all dairy; celery, tomatoes – chronic eczema 40’s – Prurigo, Allergic to soya (asthma), Kidney beans Wheat intolerance Egg intolerance Broad beans, xanthan gum, any processed foods... What’s next?

5. So what happens?

6. Not just peanuts...

7. A snapshot of daily life... Adult services – postcode lottery Tests, advice, Dietician:- discharged No food on prescription (like Coeliacs) Shopping – just fresh food – no ready meals Prepare and cook every meal Eating out a military operation Lots of picnics Managing dinner invitations No holiday from allergies – another military operation 2 years with no anaphylaxis Monthly minor episodes

8. My greatest bug bears No holiday from allergies Lack of knowledge and understanding People who don’t listen It’s all in your head Have you tried this cure and that cure? No stupid questions – If you don’t know – ask! People thinking you’re being fussy It’s not all about ‘gluten free and peanuts’...

9. Shopping Checking labels – new law Fresh produce Limited Freefrom foods a treat Online – 3-4 places 2-3 supermarkets to get what I need Buy little and often, cook simple meals

10. Eating out with allergies Research venues Pre-book by email and phone Check again – chef - menu Arrive early When arrive – alert staff of allergens When ordering – laminated card Reiterate allergies Remain alert – eat with your eyes! Conversation over meal about allergies Alert for any symptoms; tingly itchy lips, asthma

11. Be positive - communicate A5 double sided Detailed list of allergens Cross contamination List what I can eat Build a rapport

12. Typical lunch on the go...

13. Holidays with allergies

14. Blessing in disguise See the positives Learning every day I CAN eat EVERYTHING ELSE! Healthier – no processed foods Learnt about food, what’s real and what’s not Discovered cooking and baking Confidence to demand better Blogging, business Meeting new people Helping others Learning to love myself – even with my dirty little secret

15. What can we all do? Talk about it Raise awareness Help NASG, Anaphylaxis Campaign and AllergyUK spread the word Improve our own understanding EVERYONE should know how to administer epinephrine injection Help others Networking and forums Build confidence – don’t be ashamed

16. Thank you! To finish, a poem Any questions? Ruth Holroyd www.whatallergy.com ruth@whatallergy.com Twitter: @whatallergy Facebook.com/whatallergy