I think that some people may just read and not post because there is so much info contained in this site that you can pretty much have all your questions asked without posting! [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/smile.gif[/img]
THere definately are people who are not fanatics and I think that they are like this beacause they haven't researched this 'condition'. It's the same as those parents who don't check out their kids friends or don't go to parent/teacher conferences--basically they shouldn't be parents!!
Actually I would say that we are not fanatics but 'aware parents'! [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/wink.gif[/img]

I don't think I'm a fanatic in the way most people view the word 'fanatic'. I am careful about what I let Matt eat, and I do ask questions when we go out or something, but I don't see myself as a fanatic... unless of course fanatical means that I ask questions EVERY time we eat out, instead of just sometimes or read labels on ALL foods, instead of just some. If you look at it in that respect, then I guess I AM a fanatic. If there are readers out there that feel that always asking questions and reading labels constitutes a fanatic, then so be it. I'll be one in their eyes most willingly! I do what it takes to keep my kids safe and healthy, and if others don't like it....TOUGH! =)

Cindy, I do not think someone can be a fanatic about PA. Anyone who makes the mistake of thinking anyone is a fanatic is ignorant about the potential threats that all people with PA face. How can anyone be a fanatic if they take every precaution they can think of to protect against the harm from eating peanuts, peanut butter, etc.? There are people that may think some of us overreact, but they simply do not get it. They simply do not get the serious potential. If they do understand the potential problems and do not take precautions, then they are just burying their head in the sand and hoping nothing ever happens. All of us recognize the potential consequences and to varying degrees take the precautions that we feel are necessary. If someone thinks we are fanatics, and some probably do, I can only hope someday they educate themselves and they start taking this illness serious. Andy

I may not post that often, But I do read all of the post everyday. I love this site.
I consider my self to be "fanatic" about my sons allergies. If I am not then who will. It just goes to show that with this Mother day out problem that I had I have to be. My son lucas is only 3yrs old and until he is old enough to take the responsibility his self THEN CALL ME FANATIC! And I love being this way. God gave me 2 children to take care of and I will do my best at protecting them. SO if people want to call us mothers and fathers "FANATIC" with PA kids, THEN SO BE IT!!!!
:} Have a great day guys! Tina
[This message has been edited by TDJEVA (edited February 18, 2001).]

I don't consider myself a fanatic, but I think some of my friends and family members do. I've even heard, "You're not going to turn into one of THOSE parents are you?". I've heard sighs, seen looks of impatience when I begin to discuss some aspect of PA.
Sadly, I sometimes feel that this will continue until my son has a more serious reaction (his one and only reaction was hives and swollen eyes from peanutbutter fumes and possible residue). I have to continually remind myself that his LIFE depends on me being his protector and his advocate (he's only 2). I'm so glad that all of you are here, and that you understand the day-to-day demands of managing this allergy. Luckily, I have had support and concern from some family and friends that I cling to as well. But I second-guess myself all the time.
Am I being careful enough? Am I obsessing? Is there a healthy balance or is there no such thing as being too careful? I sympathize with you all.

Hi All
I had experienced many other anaphylactic reactions but all to things I could avoid. I never imagined what an impact an allergic reaction could have on all aspects of one's life.
I"m an old doll so I can look out for myself. BUT! each time I read about a reaction one of your kids has had, I remember how deathly sick I was first from my reaction and then from the medications I was given to save me. I think of how scared I was and sometimes am when going out somewhere new or eating something I have not tried since I was last sick. But with all that said, I was the lucky one. I knew what I was feeling and was able to tell when I was out of danger by the way I was feeling.
I cannot imagine how hard it is to be responsible for somebody else's safety with this added stress, as all of you parents of PA kids are. I cannot imagine what goes through your mind with each new experience, each time you let your kids out of your sight. Your kids are well because you are so vigilant and have taught them to be careful, have been fanatical about their safety. And, if some cannot understand it .....then lets just push at them harder and louder. If they think we are all fanatical then at least they are hearing the noise. Maybe one day they will hear and understand it!
In the meantime, stay fanatical - one day your grandkids will thank you!
*hugs*
Sharon (who hopes she did not come across as belligerent as she thinks she did)

Sharon, I like what you wrote. Wow. It is so sensitive to what so many people are feeling. Andy

I almost didn't respond because I wasn't sure what I want to say...still not sure how to say it simply! I think others might consider me fanatical. I know I read things on here that I don't necessarily agree with or that I might feel is "overboard"(and I use that term carefully) but then I don't always say anything because I'm not sure I should feel that way. I mean I probably have a fairly non-strict comfort zone and maybe I feel guilty about it or even unsure as to whether it is appropriate so I don't really say anything when I don't agree. (at least for the most part) I know I am constantly educating myself and also constantly aware of the dangers but try to find a fine balance-that isn't taking unneccesary risks for my children. Again, that is all a matter of opinion, too! I know because of my "industriousness" towards food allergies and protecting my children that sometimes people appear frustrated with me even though they might try to hide it because they are my friends. Sure they don't completely understand...but they are learning and so am I. Fanatical? Maybe I am! But I have to do what I am comfortable with and make decisions on what I feel is best...not them!
Hope I didn't get too deep here!!!
I could go on and on.........
tkiaml [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/smile.gif[/img] [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/smile.gif[/img] [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/smile.gif[/img]