AAPE - Recently Updated Pages

AAPE Advocacy

moassessi — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 01:16:38 CST

National and Local Advocacy
This page will list both National and Local Advocacy efforts made by AAPE volunteers, friends and families. If you would like more information, please email Caroline at lifewithoutlimits@aapeweb.org. AAPE members are passionate about legislation that support keeping our children safe at school and home and have participating in providing testimony, attending hearings and advocating to Nevada legislatures regarding local and national food allergy and Asthma law.

2009 Advocacy efforts
The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Management Act of 2009 (FAAMA); S.456 and HR.1378 was created to help assure that schools can safely manage students with life-threatening food allergies. The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network is spearheading this national advocacy effort, visit their website for more information.

Bill Summary:
Please see attached page created by the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network, who hosted the 2009 FAAN Kid's Congress on Capital Hill where over 80 children attended representing many States. The children rallied and met with their respective Senators and Representatives to gain co-sponsorship of FAAMA. This information sheet was created to provide a brief bill summary and to provide talking points.

Current Action to this Bill:
To watch this bill in congress please visit The Library of Congress. Review S.456 (Senate) andHR.1378 (House) to read about who has co-sponsored the bill, review the bill summary and learn about what actions have taken place.

What is happening in Nevada
Currently, Senator John Ensign and Representative Dean Heller who have co-sponsored this bill thanks to the efforts of AAPE member Cyrus who participated in the 2009 FAAN Kid's Congress as he introduced this bill and to YOU--our AAPE families and friends. After Cyrus' initial visit, AAPE families rallied at our Annual Halloween Bash and sent a group letter signed by 44 individuals and a banner created by the kids to Senators Harry Reid, John Ensign and Representative Dean Heller. FAAN lobbyist, Lynn Morrison, presented the banners to Senator Ensign and Representative Heller, who within days co-signed FAAMA.

Attached is a copy of the three group letters that were printed on AAPE letterhead and presented to our legislatures including our signature pages.

What you can do...
After Thanksgiving, we will be asking AAPE members to contact Senator Harry Reid's office to ask him to encourage Senator Tom Harkin to bring S.456 to the Senate floor using the Unamious Consent procedure where there is no debate and no roll call vote. Just a motion that the bill is passed by the Senate unless there is an objection. More details to follow.

PHOTOS
November 2009: Senator John Ensign receiving Banner from AAPE kid's from FAAN Lobbyist Lynn Morrison.

November 2009: Representative Dean Heller receiving Banner from AAPE kid's from FAAN Lobbyist Lynn Morrison

Advocacy

moassessi — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 01:10:34 CST

Visit our detailed AAPE Advocacy Page

November 4th, 2009---Senator John Ensign receives banner created by AAPE kids asking him to co-sponsor S.456-the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Management Act.
Lynn Morrison, FAAN lobbyist, hand delivered this banner along with an AAPE group letter, endorsed by 44 AAPE parents and friends.
The banner was created during our Annual Halloween Bash held at Pump It Up!

November 4th, 2009---Representative Dean Hller receives banner created by AAPE kids asking him to co-sponsor HR 1378-the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Management Act.
Lynn Morrison, FAAN lobbyist, hand delivered this banner along with an AAPE group letter, endorsed by 44 AAPE parents and friends.
The banner was created during our Annual Halloween Bash held at Pump It Up!

Signature page sample

moassessi — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 01:01:47 CST

This is the format AAPE used to gather signatures for the group letter sent regarding FAAMA

Senator Reid

(Print Name)	(Signature)	(address)
Comment:

(Print Name)	(Signature)	(address)
Comment:

(Print Name)	(Signature)	(address)
Comment:

(Print Name)	(Signature)	(address)
Comment:

(Print Name)	(Signature)	(address)
Comment:

(Print Name)	(Signature)	(address)
Comment:

(Print Name)	(Signature)	(address)
Comment:

(Print Name)	(Signature)	(address)
Comment:

FAAMA Details from FAAN

moassessi — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 00:55:33 CST

Below are details from FAAN, including how to contact the FAAN lobbyist, etc.

The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Management Act of 2007
(S. 456 / H.R. 1378)

Purpose: To help assure that schools can safely manage students with life-threatening food allergies.

Background: An estimated 2 million school-age children suffer from food allergies, for which there is no cure. Avoiding any and all products with allergy-causing ingredients is the only way to prevent potentially life-threatening reactions.

A recent study published in the Journal of School Nursing showed that 94 percent of the nation’s schools have students with food allergy. Reactions often occur at school, including severe anaphylaxis, which can kill within minutes unless epinephrine (adrenaline) is administered. Deaths from anaphylaxis are usually a result of delayed administration of epinephrine.

The importance of managing life-threatening food allergies in the school setting has been recognized by the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the National Association of School Nurses, and the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.

Nevertheless, there are no consistent, standardized guidelines to help schools safely manage students with the disease.

Bill Summary: The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Management Act:

· requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to develop and make available to local educational agencies a voluntary policy to manage the risk of food allergy and anaphylaxis in schools, and
· directs that such policy address: (1) a parental obligation to provide the school with information regarding a student's food allergy and anaphylaxis; (2) communication strategies between schools and emergency medical services; (3) strategies to reduce the risk of exposure in classrooms and common areas; (4) food allergy management training of school personnel; (5) authorization of school personnel to administer epinephrine when the school nurse is not immediately available; and (6) creation of an individual health care plan tailored to each child's risk for anaphylaxis.
· provides for school-based food allergy management incentive grants to local educational agencies to assist such agencies with adoption and implementation of food allergy management guidelines in public k-12 schools.

For More Information: Please contact Lynn Morrison at 202-496-3457 or (Lynn.Morrison@whaonline.org))

Letter to Representative Dean Heller

moassessi — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 00:53:41 CST

This is a copy of the letter sent to Representative Dean Heller from AAPE:

October 28th, 2009

The Honorable Dean Heller
125 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515

Dear Representative Heller,

Earlier this month, Cyrus Moassessi, our youth ambassador and member of the Northern Nevada Asthma and Food Allergy Education Group, from Reno, NV met with you and your staff in Washington D.C. As a participant of the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network’s Kids’ Congress on Capitol Hill, he presented information about the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Management Act (HR 1378) and asked for your support.

Since the Kids Congress, almost 20 additional House Members have signed on to HR 1378, and the bill now has over 60 co-sponsors. We hope you will add your name as soon as possible.

More than 12 million Americans – including 3 million children – suffer from food allergies. There is no cure for this disease, so avoiding any and all products with allergy-causing ingredients is the only way to prevent potentially life-threatening reactions for children like ours. As we can tell you, this is extremely difficult to do, because even tiny amounts of food on a cooking utensil or as a minor ingredient in a product can cause a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction in a person with an allergy.

We would like you will sign on to co-sponsor The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Management Act (HR.1378). Doing so will help keep children with food allergies safe at school.

Please help our kids and schools and pass this bill!

Sincerely,

Your Nevada Constituents
(see attached)

Letter to Senator John Ensign

moassessi — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 00:51:38 CST

This is a copy of the letter sent to Senator John Ensign from AAPE:

October 29th, 2009

The Honorable John Ensign
119 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510

Dear Senator Ensign,

Earlier this month, Cyrus Moassessi, our youth ambassador and member of the Northern Nevada Asthma and Food Allergy Education Group, from Reno, NV met with you and your staff in Washington D.C. As a participant of the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network’s Kids’ Congress on Capitol Hill, he presented information about the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Management Act (S.456) and asked for your support.

Since the Kids Congress, 4 additional Senate Members have signed on to S.456, and the bill now has over 30 co-sponsors. We hope you will add your name as soon as possible.

More than 12 million Americans – including 3 million children – suffer from food allergies. There is no cure for this disease, so avoiding any and all products with allergy-causing ingredients is the only way to prevent potentially life-threatening reactions for children like ours. As we can tell you, this is extremely difficult to do, because even tiny amounts of food on a cooking utensil or as a minor ingredient in a product can cause a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction in a person with an allergy.

We understand that you are familiar with food allergies and even spoke personally to Trace Adkins about this disease. We held a fundraiser last spring in his honor, when he was in town, to raise funds to purchase food allergy books for each school in the Washoe County School District.

We would like you will sign on to co-sponsor The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Management Act (S.456). Doing so will help keep children with food allergies safe at school.

Please help our kids and schools and pass this bill!

Sincerely,

Your Nevada Constituents
(see attached)

Letter to Senator Harry Reid

moassessi — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 00:50:03 CST

This is a copy of the letter sent to Senator Harry Reid on AAPE Stationary:

October 28th, 2009

The Honorable Harry Reid
522 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510

Dear Senator Reid,

Earlier this month, Cyrus Moassessi, our Youth Ambassador and member of the Northern Nevada Asthma and Food Allergy Education Group, from Reno, NV meet with Carolyn Gluck, from your office, in Washington D.C. as part of the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network’s Kids’ Congress on Capitol Hill. He presented information about the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Management Act (S.456).

More than 12 million Americans – including 3 million children – suffer from food allergies. There is no cure for this disease, so avoiding any and all products with allergy-causing ingredients is the only way to prevent potentially life-threatening reactions for children like ours. As we can tell you, this is extremely difficult to do, because even tiny amounts of food on a cooking utensil or as a minor ingredient in a product can cause a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction in a person with an allergy.

We need your help in getting S. 456 passed. We hope you will work with Health Committee Chairman Harkin to get S.456 approved by the Committee and brought to the floor for a vote by unanimous consent, the procedure we understand is used for non-controversial bills such as this.

Please support our kids and schools and pass this bill!

Sincerely,

Your Nevada Constituents
(see attached)

Latest AAPE News!

pwmoores — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 12:53:24 CST

A HUGE Thank You to the Spallone Family
for sponsoring our Halloween Jump at Pump It Up!
Email us if you want to watch the Video Thank You Card we made for them, it's pretty fun! We can email it back to you. It is not too big.

GOOD NEWS and Great Job AAPE Families and Friends!
Senator John Ensigned co-sponsored S. 456 after receiving your banner and letters!!!

HALLOWEEN JUMP PARTY SCHEDULED--time to RSVP!!!

November 4th, 2009---Senator Ensign receives banner created by AAPE kids asking him to co-sponsor S.456-the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Management Act.
Lynn Morrison, FAAN lobbyist, hand delivered this banner along with an AAPE group letter, endorsed by 44 AAPE parents and friends.
The banner was created during our Annual Halloween Bash held at Pump It Up!

November 4th, 2009---Representative Dean Heller receives banner created by AAPE kids asking him to co-sponsor HR 1378-the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Management Act.
Lynn Morrison, FAAN lobbyist, hand delivered this banner along with an AAPE group letter, endorsed by 44 AAPE parents and friends.
The banner was created during our Annual Halloween Bash held at Pump It Up!

***************************************************************************************************************************************

RSVP at lifewithoutlimits@aapeweb.org for our fabulous fun filled food free Halloween Party.

What: Halloween Bash -- costumes welcomed!
When: Thursday, October 29th, from 5:30-7:30pm
Where: Pump it Up in Sparks---a new location this year--so that we may spread our sunshine out to Sparks!
Who: Everyone--your entire family is invited--siblings and friends if your child would feel more comfortable

Each child will receive a non-food treat and we'll enjoy a parade of costumes too!!!
The party is free thanks to the never ending generosity of Nick and Kelly Spallone of Tahoe Supply Company.

RSVP ASAP!!! Questions: please email Caroline at lifewithoutlimits@aapeweb.org

Adventure Day Rescheduled
We will be rescheduled Adventure to the Fall or Winter (think snowman building possibly) and are currently researching hosting a modified Ropes course, rock climbing or possibly an idea you may have? Please email lifewithoutlimits@aapeweb.org with ideas!

"How to Navigate the ER with Food Allergies and Asthma"
Lecture to be held on Wednesday, April 29th, at 7pm in Room 402, Health Enhancement Services Suite at Renown.
Jenn Allen, Renown ER nurse who holds a masters degree in Health Education will lead us in a lecture providing insight into what to expect and what you can do to help create a positive ER experience. Please RSVP.

Food Allergy Management Act of 2009
Senator Chris Dodd (D-CT), introduced legislation (S. 456) on Feb. 24 that would provide for a consistent approach to food allergy management guidelines for schools, and would offer incentive grants to schools that choose to implement such voluntary guidelines. If signed into law, The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Management Act of 2009 would direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in consultation with the Secretary of Education, to develop voluntary guidelines to prevent exposure to food allergens and assure a prompt response if a reaction were to occur. The bill is endorse

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

Walmart now selling $9 Inhalers
Walmart has teamed up with GlaxoSmithKline to offer ReliOn Ventolin Inhalers for only $9--click on link for details click here for story AAPE called a local Wal-mart to confirm this story--which is true. You will need a prescription from your physician and as always, seek medical direction from your child's doctor.
*******************************************************************************************************************************
Gluten Free Baking Class in South Reno...

Gluten Free Baking

Don't let your intolerance to gluten prevent you from eating delicious items in your home every night of the week. Learn to cook the items you love, but thought you could never eat again like pizza, French baguette, pasta, tarts and brownies. Create delicious menus and exchange your gluten-free product information and recipes with others in class. $69 plus $15 materials fee. Held at Galena High School Mondays, 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM; 3 sessions starting March 16 and ending March 30, 2009.

More info: Prepare and eat your creations in each class. Week one is Italian night: pizza, foccacia, pasta. Week two is French night: baguette, eclairs, buckwheat crepes. Week three is dessert night: tart, upside down cake , brownies.

To register call 829-9010 or visit wdce.tmcc.edu. There are only 5 spaces left in this class so don't delay!

*******************************************************************************************************************************************
*******************************************************************************************************************************
Call for arts and crafts from our Asthma kids for the American Lung Associations Annual Honor Award Dinner and Auction!

February 19th, 2009

Last minute call for arts and crafts made by kids with asthma to be sold at the silent auction to be held at the Annual ALA Honoree Dinner, honoring the 4 termed Senators Mark Amodei, Bernice Martin-Mathews, Randolph Townsend and Maurice Washington. Please call Gwen Bourne at the ALA (775) 829-5873 or email Caroline at lifewithoutlimits@aapeweb.org if your child is interested. Paperwork is due by February 12th and items must be delivered to the ALA's office located in South Reno by Feb 17th. Please email or call ASAP! A few kids are already making bracelets and necklaces!

*******************************************************************************************************************************************
Athletes and Runners...
visit www.takeincase.com to check out these interesting stretch Epi Pen holders that can attach to your calf while running. click here for link
*******************************************************************************************************************************
*******************************************************************************************************************************
EGGLESS Egg Hunt--April 5th,2009--Save the date and lend a hand to create another memorable event! Visit our Eggless Egg Hunt page for details..click here for Eggless Egg Hunt page
Katie Keating, our queen of egglessness, is busy planning more interesting activities and entertainment in addition to our wonderful raffle. Your help is needed as we continue to grow and enjoy this fun family afternoon event. Please contact Katie to see what you can do (see our Eggless Egg Hunt Page).

************************************************
Have A HEART and SAVE A HEART at a CPR Training session by REMSA...on February 14th, 9:00-1:00pm.
REMSA will be offering free CPR training sessions at Scheels in Sparks (you will not receive a certificate at this session) in honor of National Heart Month.

AAPE has been invited by REMSA to join forces with other community groups who promote good health to distribute information at this event.

We will need two additional volunteers to attend the event to give out AAPE brochures and other food allergy information. Please email Caroline at lifewithoutlimits@aapeweb.org if you can help out for an hour or two this day. The United Blood Services Mobile will be there in addition to a Child Seat Safety Checkpoint, etc. More details to follow.

************************************************
American Lung Association Fundraisers...
Coming up:

December 12th family fun!!!!!
Join AAPE members and the American Lung Association (ALA) at the Reno Bighorn's 2nd home game fundraiser on December 12th, 2008. ALA is selling tickets for only $10 each. Through-out the game, the Bighorns will promote Asthma Awareness and the ALA will also host a booth at the event. See our Bighorn Basketball Game Info page for more information or call Gwen at 829-5873 for ticket information. Your tickets must be purchased through the ALA and picked up at the game.
***************************************************************************************************
Special discount for AAPE members...
Food Allergy author Linda Coss has extended a special discount to AAPE members through December 31st: Free priority shipping on your book purchase from www.foodallergybooks.com. Linda has written two successful cookbooks along with a book on Managing food allergies.
***************************************************************************************************
Check out the PBS FOOD ALLERGY Documentary Page to learn more about this upcoming piece. If you want to see this aired in our area, please read the press release providing information on how to see in your town.

***************************************************************************************************

CDC releases report on food allergies: click for link to CDC

************************************************************************************************

Visit our Halloween Party Page

to sign up to attend and for more details..

********************************************************************************

5 year Anniversary Celebration and Lecture with Dr. Joshua Jacobs
Join us as we celebrate 5 years of great parenting, support and learning. Come meet new friends, catch up with old friends and just celebrate your success as a parent of a child with food allergies and/or asthma! Dr Jacobs is AAPE's assistant Medical Adviser focusing on food allergies, his practice is in California and he travels once a year to Reno speak to our group. He will present an update on the latest news regarding food allergy and asthma therapies and research.

Details:
Friday, October 17th, 7-9pm at the Historical Huffaker School House at Bartley Ranch. This is an Adult only event and RSVP's ARE REQUIRED since space is limited for this building. Please email lifewithoutlimits@aapeweb.org to reserve your spot. Dessert provided by Whole Foods Market

*************************************************************************************************
Go Dragon's Breath!!!! Nice job raising over $5,000 for our local American

Lung Association!!

*************************************************************************************************

Save the DATE:
Oct 17th, Lecture and 5 Year AAPE Anniversary Celebration
Oct 28th, Halloween Bash at Jump Man Jump

***************************************************************************************************
September Events

Tea and coffee...
Join us on Thursday, September 11th, 2008 at 9:00am at Whole Foods over tea, coffee, scones and muffins as we meet up with new and old friends. Luann will be on hand with her trusty laptop to demo our AAPE website. Please RSVP to lifewithoutlimits@aapeweb.org

Reminder: The Asthma walk is September 14th! Join us or donate!--see below for details

***************************************************************************************************
New Website and Name for GAK's SNACKS....
Gak's Snacks has a new and improved name and website: HomeFree. The produce organic, peanut, tree nut, egg and dairy free cookies. They also offer baking ingredients like cocoa powder, chocolate chips, barley flour, etc Click here to visit Homefree

**************************************************************************************************

The Power of Walking...

Let's Walk together to raise Awareness and Raise Funds for either Asthma, Food Allergies or Both!!!

Asthma Walk: September 14th, 2008-Damante Ranch, Reno, NV: Join team Dragon's Breath: click here to join

Food Allergy Walk: September 20th, 2008-San Francisco, CA: Join team Northern Nevada Nutz to Walk....Or...join our team as virtual walker if you can't get to San Francisco: click here to join

*******************************************************************************************************************************
Book Offer from Author Linda Coss
"What Else is to Eat? The Dairy-, Egg-, and Nut-Free Food Allergy Cookbook," is now available!

Order by August 31, 2008 and Get
FREE Priority Mail Shipping!

Use coupon code CB2SG at check out.

"What Else is to Eat?" will not be available elsewhere until my official publication date of September 15th. I hope your members choose to take advantage of this "I got the books back early from the printer" special!

www.FoodAllergyBooks.com

**************************************************************************************************************************

Receive $20 off Twinject...click on... Twinject link

***************************************************************************************************

*******************************************************************************************************************************
APPE & ALA Adventure Day Ropes Course SUCCESS!!!

We had a great day at Project Discovery this year! Almost 30 kids and several parents attended. Most of the parents and helpers who were watching were brought to tears as each person attending challenged their fears and beliefs about their capabilities. Everyone left the day bigger and brighter and stronger then they started!

***************************************************************************************************

AAPE Makes Book Donation to Washoe County School District

AAPE Families present the Food Allergy for Dummies and Asthma for Dummies
books to the Washoe County School Disrtict.Present are the Keatings, Moores, Peddies,
and the Chelinis. Many thanks to all who contributed their time and enery to making this
donation a reality.

***************************************************************************************************

FOOD ALLERGY AWARENESS WEEK
FAAW begins on Mother's Day, May 11th. Governor Gibbons has proclaimed FAAW for Nevada!

Educate
The power of one: please use this week to educate oneperson within your sphere of influence on the reality of food allergies and how they can support a friend, co-worker or family member. If all 250 AAPE members did this, then we would 250 newly educated people in our community.

Share
On May 15th, AAPE, along side KBUL will present our book purchase (Food Allergies for Dummies and Asthma for Dummies) to the head Washoe County School Librarian. They are so happy to receive this very kind donation. Thank you again to KBUL, Tahoe Supply Company and many individual donors who are made this happen!

Shop
Check out Elaine, an AAPE member's ETSY website. She is selling stylish food allergy necklaces and will donate $2.00 to FAAN per order. Also, should would like to hear back from AAPE members on what they would like to see. Here is her website... http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=11606750

***************************************************************************************************
Update: Trace Adkins Fundraiser
Saturday, May 3rd, Caroline & Cyrus Moassessi and Zac Chelini presented Trace Adkins with a check (a big card board thing) representing over $4,000 that we have raised in this community in his honor to purchase the Food Allergy and Asthma Dummies books and to donate to FAAN in his name. We also presented him with a beautiful scrapbook containing our thank-you's for his hard work. He sincerely appreciated the money being raised and receiving the scrapbook. Since he appeared on Celebrity Apprentice, our community has enjoyed newspaper articles, radio talk and just simple discussions. At the concert, Caroline met several of his FAAN's who have recently learned about Food Allergies because of Trace and offered their support and understanding of our challenges. It was a very wonderful experience.

We are currently working with the Washoe Country School District about presenting them with the first set of Dummies books during Food Allergy Awareness Week (FAAW). They are thrilled to receive our donation!

Nice Job AAPE families and friends with your generous donations and thank you notes to Trace!

By the way, Trace has since raised $250,000 for FAAN--Go Trace!

***************************************************************************************************

Parenting Children with Health Issues Seminar...(this was shared by the Sacramento food allergy support group)
The Children's Center at Sutter Medical Center of Sacramento is holding a seminar titled, "Parenting Children with Health Issues", featuring Dr. Foster Cline, Child Psychiatrist and Co-founder of the Love and Logic Institute. Dr. Cline is an internationally renowned child psychiatrist and co-author of Parenting Children with Health Issues. He will address handling refusals to take medication, strategies for preventing arguments and avoiding power struggles, promoting responsibility without nagging or lecturing, and enabling children to make good self care decisions. (more information on Dr. Cline can be found at: http://www.loveandlogic.com/pages/fosterbio.html )

When: Friday, September 12, 2008
Time: 8:30-4:30pm
Location: Sutter Health University (2700 Gateway Oaks Blvd, 95833

The class is open to parents, caregivers and clinicians working with children with chronic health issues.
(7 Social work and Nursing CE's offered by Love & Logic.)
There is registration fee of $20.00, which includes breakfast, lunch and handouts. If the fee is a hardship, please email Shaun Gray at the contact information below to discuss a scholarship and she may be able to waive the fee.
For more information or to reserve a seat contact: Shaun Gray, LCSW, (916)733-7013 or graysm@sutterhealth.org

***************************************************************************************************

Joint Statement from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) and the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) in regards to Singulair. link to joint statement
Please visit: http://www.aaaai.org/media/news_releases/2008/03/jointstatement.asp

***************************************************************************************************

Mary Kay Fundraiser
AAPE member, Leah's friend has very kindly offered anyone in our group the opportunity to host a Mary Kay Skin Care Class between now and April 30th for you and 2-5 friends. She will generously donate 25% of the sales to AAPE!!! If you are interested, please contact Erica Crumley, Independent Mary Kay Consultant, at ericacrumley@yahoo.com, or visit www.marykay.com/ezideck or call 775-829-2825.

***************************************************************************************************

Cool Allergy Savvy Cakes and Blog!
AAPE member, Katy C., has a very interesting blog spot about her cake decorating fun. She makes, wheat free, dairy free and egg free cakes that are organic, fair trade and local. She may even be able to make something for you! Check out the her blogspot at: http://patiencecakes.blogspot.com

***************************************************************************************************

5th Annual Eggless Egg Hunt was HUGE success!

Thank You Nick and Kelly Spallone of Tahoe Supply Company for donating all of those fabulous prize bags. The extra bags were donated to the Pediatric Ward at Renown, who were completely thrilled with the donation. They also, can not give out food items to the children. Over 80 children enjoyed the Tumblebus, Cimbo the police dog, statue painting, face painting, touring an ambulance and fire truck and a visit from the Easter Bunny. Grown-ups enjoyed an amazing raffle with fantastic items, which raised $749 that we will use toward more events, lectures and public education projects. Thank you to our many volunteers who solicited raffle items, stuffed goody bags, helped set-up, take down and helping during the event. The Eggless Egg hunt was truly a community event enjoyed by all.

***************************************************************************************************

You can help food allergy researchers....
Researchers at Chicago’s Children’s Memorial Hospital are currently conducting an important online survey of parents of children with food allergies.

Help physicians at Children's Memorial Hospital learn more about food allergy and its impacts! Click on the link below to take our 15 minute survey for parents of children with food allergy.
Food Allergy Survey: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=JZkxlFQRpE4MSKUzfzPDmw_3d_3d

***************************************************************************************************

New Food Allergy Product on the market

We just received word that a new a line of muffin & pancake mixes for people with common food allergies is available. The mixes are free of dairy, egg, peanuts & treenuts, and are manufactured in a dedicated peanut/treenut free facility to ensure no cross contamination. The muffin mixes are Classic Blueberry, with canned wild Maine blueberries in the box, and Cranberry Orange, with dried cranberries in the mix. The product is all-natural and free of preservatives and contains no high fructose corn syrup.

You can order our products via www.meraby.com, or print out a retailer request form to pass along to your local stores requesting them to stock our product. If you have any questions, please contact the company founder listed below. If you try this product, please post a review of your experience.

Jamie Martin

Founder

Meraby's Allergy Family Foods

All the taste, none of the worry!

Phone: 256-890-3450

********
Disclaimer: Information on this website, AAPE added content as well as Google ads, should not be used as a substitute for responsible professional care to diagnose and treat specific symptoms and illnesses. Any reference to available products and procedures should not be construed as an endorsement nor are such references a representation as to the effectiveness or appropriateness of any such product or procedure. AAPE, including all parties to be associated with this group, will not be held responsible for any action taken by participants.

Resouces

moassessi — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:33:01 CDT

Prescription Assistance
Call the Partnership for Prescription Assistance at 1-888-477-2669

*******************************************************************************************************************************
Food Allergy Action Plans

http://www.foodallergy.org/actionplan.pdf

http://www.aaaai.org/members/resources/anaphylaxis_toolkit/action_plan.pdf

********************************************************************************************************************************
Restaurant and Food Service
The Culinary Institute of America has an on-line program for restaurants and food service providers about managing food allergies. Check out this website and share with your favorite food establishment:

http://www.ciaprochef.com/foodallergies/index.html

Let's Eat Out Series...

http://www.allergyfreepassport.com/letseatout/overview.html

********************************************************************************************************************************

SUPPORT

Local Gluten Free Support
The High Sierra Gluten-Free Support Group welcomes anyone with celiac disease, their families, and their health care providers. For more information contact Kerry Seymour, MS, RD, CDE – registered dietitian and group facilitator – at (775)784-4848. E-mail: seymourk@unce.unr.edu; or Kathleen Frank, chapter president at (775)826-9038.

*******************************************************************************************************************************

RECIPESMembers can share recipes they enjoy.

********************************************************************************************************************************
FOOD PRODUCTS (see our links page too)

Listed here are products our members are reviewing.
PLEASE READ ALL LABELS before eating anything new!

********************************************************************************************************************************
NON-FOOD PRODUCTS: (see our links page too)

Discreet Epi Pen or inhaler holders: Omaxcare.com

Here are products like soaps, lotions, as well as other things like epipen carriers, t-shirts and lunch bags. AAPE does not endorse any of the products discussed on these pages!

Managing Food Allergies Book AND Dairy, Egg and Nutfree Cookbook... link to website
Check out these two books written by Linda Coss, a mother of a teenage boy with life threatening food allergies. Several of our own members own these books have found them very helpful.

Runners and Athletes...
Visit www.takeincase.com to check out stretchy sleeves that hold Epi pens on your calf while exercising

********
Disclaimer: Information on this website, AAPE added content as well as Google ads, should not be used as a substitute for responsible professional care to diagnose and treat specific symptoms and illnesses. Any reference to available products and procedures should not be construed as an endorsement nor are such references a representation as to the effectiveness or appropriateness of any such product or procedure. AAPE, including all parties to be associated with this group, will not be held responsible for any action taken by participants.

Halloween Jump

moassessi — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 20:07:32 CDT

HALLOWEEN JUMP PARTY 2009
RSVP at lifewithoutlimits@aapeweb.org for our fabulous fun filled food free Halloween Party.

What: Halloween Bash -- costumes welcomed!
When: Thursday, October 29th, from 5:30-7:30pm
Where: Pump it Up in Sparks---a new location this year--so that we may spread our sunshine out to Sparks!
Who: Everyone--your entire family is invited--siblings and friends if your child would feel more comfortable

Each child will receive a non-food treat and we'll enjoy a parade of costumes too!!!
The party is free thanks to the never ending generosity of Nick and Kelly Spallone of Tahoe Supply Company.

RSVP ASAP!!! Questions: please email Caroline at lifewithoutlimits@aapeweb.org

Parent To-Do Lists

moassessi — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 17:13:03 CDT

Food allergies to-do list for parents:

1 Learn to recognize early signs of reactions.

2 Learn to read food labels.

3 Join Food Allergy and Anaphylasis Network (FAAN): www.foodallergy.org

4 Write Emergency Treatment Plan

5 Carry an unexpired EpiPen® with child at all times. Consider carrying two, just in case.

6 Carry Benedryl at all times (to be administered AFTER EpiPen®).

7 Order MedicAlert Bracelet and have child wear it at all times. (www.medicalert.org)

Asthma to-do list for parents:

1 Know your child's triggers.

2 Always carry rescue medications: Bronchodilator inhaler or nebulizer spacer oral steroid,

if prescribed; EpiPen®, if prescribed.

3 Have your child's asthma action plan with you.

4 Have emergency phone numbers with you.

5 Don't forget your child's peak flow meter.

6 If you're going out of town, remember your child's daily maintenance medications.

How to get organized" with food allergies
http://www.kidswithfoodallergies.org/resourcespre.php?id=117&title=top_organization_tips_to_manage_food_allergies

or click here for link

********
Disclaimer: Information on this website, AAPE added content as well as Google ads, should not be used as a substitute for responsible professional care to diagnose and treat specific symptoms and illnesses. Any reference to available products and procedures should not be construed as an endorsement nor are such references a representation as to the effectiveness or appropriateness of any such product or procedure. AAPE, including all parties to be associated with this group, will not be held responsible for any action taken by participants.

Articles-Research-Reports

moassessi — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 21:40:50 CDT

FDA Related Articles...

FDA Article regarding how to reduce food allergy risks

http://www.fda.gov/consumer/updates/foodallergies012209.pdf or click here for story

Research and Advocacy Groups

Chicago Tribune Article and Study leads to stores and food chains pulling products..

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/chi-allergens_for_webdec20,0,5042034.story?page=1

*****************************************************************************************************************************
Article from FAAN discussing Food Allergies on the Rise...

http://www.foodallergy.org/featuredtopic.html

*************************************************************************************************************************************

Update from The Food Allergy Project AND the Food Allergy Initiative...

Dear Friends of the Food Allergy Project,

We are thrilled to announce an exciting development in our efforts to find a cure for life-threatening food allergies and help the millions of children and adults afflicted by this disease. The Food Allergy Project is merging with the Food Allergy Initiative (FAI) to create a combined entity that will represent the largest source of funding for food allergy research and will serve as a voice for millions of families to call on our nation’s leaders and private donors to collaborate in search of a cure.

We founded The Food Allergy Project in 2006 after privately supporting research and education efforts for a number of years. We created The Food Allergy Project after recognizing that the federal government simply did not understand the magnitude of this growing childhood disease. We believed that in addition to supporting research directly, we also needed to give families a voice and a way to make our nation’s decision-makers stand up and take notice. We are proud of what we have accomplished over the last three years. In 2009, for the first time, the Department of Defense will begin a $2.5 million scientific research program dedicated to finding a cure for food allergies. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) issued its first report on food allergy prevalence last year and has now added food allergies to the important public health issues that it tracks for the country. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has produced an Expert Panel report detailing the steps that must be taken in search of a cure, and key NIH leaders have acknowledged a need for greater resources in this area. We still have a long way to go – and until our children have a cure we will keep fighting – but we are proud of The Food Allergy Project’s accomplishments to date.

Our merger with the Food Allergy Initiative represents the joining together of like-minded parents, advocates and researchers who are committed to finding a cure for life-threatening food allergies. Our children deserve the right to reach their full potential, and we are thrilled to merge our organization with FAI to bring hope for a cure to millions of children. After partnering with FAI on a number of research and advocacy efforts, we decided that we could drive even greater awareness and resources to the disease by formally joining forces. The new organization will use the FAI name and will focus on directly supporting basic research, as well as advocating for greater federal attention to the problem.

A press release announcing the merger was issued to national media today and you can view it here. We urge you to visit the FAI website www.faiusa.org, which was recently re-launched with updated content. We will soon be adding new tools to help families and others impacted by food allergies to advocate for a cure, so stay tuned.

We are grateful for the support you have given The Food Allergy Project and we will continue to fight for all of our children through FAI.

Thank you,
Denise & David Bunning

Eggless Egg Hunt 2009

moassessi — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 11:11:24 CDT

Egg-Less Egg Hunt
Sunday, April 5th, 2009 from 1-3pm
Location will be given upon confirmation of your RSVP (please RSVP yes, if you want to attend but are not sure you can. We need to estimate the count so we can order the correct number of prizes.)

Details:

1. RSVP by FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2009
2. Contact us if you can volunteer for a 30-60 minute shift before, during or after the hunt. Teens are encouraged to help!
3. Raffle: In the spirit of supporting our local businesses who are sometimes challenged with the economy, we have chosen to not solicit for raffle items, but are asking our families to consider donating an item themselves or "re-gifting" a new item that you may have received that would simply look lovely in someone else's house or toy box.
4. Bring your camera since Mr. Bunny will be there.
5. Bring your own basket if you have one and if not, we'll have some on hand for you.
6. Thank Tahoe Supply Company for generously donating funds to cover prizes--they never stop supporting us!
7. There will be crafts, face painting, the Sparks S.W.A.T. vehicle to explore, and exciting entertainment from Team G.L.O.W., a local cheer, dance and tumble performance team, including an encouraging talk for the kids from G.L.O.W. coach.
8. Teens Against Tobacco Use (T.A.T.U.) from the American Lung Association will host a table of very "cool" information.
9. Cost: FREE

Please see below from Katie Keating...our Eggless Egghunt Queen!

Katie Keating, our Queen of Egglessness, is actively seeking ideas, help, donations for our raffle and older kids that run activities and be leaders/role models for the little guys. See below for how to contact Katie. Even the smallest task, such as picking up a donation is appreciated.

Currently, Katie is forming various committees to get the egg rolling (yes, couldn't resist using that pun). We are focusing on our raffle as we are hoping that the funds raised will help to cover the costs of the event. She is busy securing REMSA and maybe either the fire truck, police car, and/or a SWAT vehicle for the kids to explore. In addition, she has arranged for Team G.L.O.W., a local cheer, dance, and tumble performance team to provide entertainment. They will do tumbling as guests arrive and then do two performances to get us started. There are at least two girls on the team who have asthma and one with diabetes.

Please think about how you can help this year to make this a wonderful event for our AAPE community. We need your help!!!

Committees:
1. Raffle Tables
2. Egg Hunt & Prizes
3. Registration & Paper detail
4. Games & Activities
5. Set Up & Clean Up
6. Easter Bunny Detail

Happy New Year!
Katie Keating
mtnkeats@aol.com
425-5438

Food Products

moassessi — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 17:43:52 CST

Soynuts and other allergy free products--click on Vegetarian in the SHOP area
link to Friedas

www.allergyfreeshops.com

EVENTS 2009

moassessi — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 12:39:55 CST

February
Visit Scheels on February 14th- 9am-1pm, and enjoy free CPR classes (no certification given), car seat check points and more at Save A HEART Day sponsored by REMSA and other local businesses. AAPE will be there handing out brochures and information.

American Lung Association Honoree Award Dinner, February 19th, 6pm, Honoring the four termed Senators Mark Amodei, Bernice Martin-Mathews, Randolph Townsend and Maurice Washington at the Silver Legacy featuring a fabulous silent and live auction. Please call the ALA office for details and reservations. Costs start at $200 per ticket and $2,000 per table.

Shop at GESTURE, in the Sierra Summit Mall, Reno, during the month of December and 5% of your purchase will be donated to our local American Lung Association chapter. They offer unique gifts, artisan items and many one-of-a-kind treasures all beautifully gift wrapped featuring a real peacock feather!

Links

moassessi — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 21:47:16 CST

SPECIAL NOTE:
Please email us your favorite websites or join this website as a member to add your suggestions. Questions? Email Luann@aapeweb.org (our website guru) or lifewithoutlimits@aapeweb.org

Medical Community:

www.medicalert.org

www.aafa.org

www.aaaai.org

Support and Resources:

www.foodallergy.org

www.foodallergyinitiative.org

www.allergicchild.com

www.safe4kids.ca

www.allergymoms.com

www.safeFoodForMe.com

Books and Literature:

www.foodallergybooks.com

www.beyondapeanut.com

Living:

www.dakotafree.com : various home, skin care and gift ideas for folks with allergies, including sunflower seeds

www.jeeto.com: review their allergy collection for stickers, patches and clothing for catchy, playful, food allergy signage.

www.awarenessbadges.com
offers luggage tags, emergency bags and more that indicate an allergy with a bit of style

www.allergychat.org: Beta site of an on-line allergy discussion forum

www.allergicliving.com a Magazine that offers forums, updates, personal stories, information and more.

www.peaceofmindallergy.com Sells very stylish Epi Pen holders, purses and backpacks for children and adults. Currently, for the month of December, they are offering $5 off your next purchase...use online coupon code: PMAS 122008

Food:

www.cookiesforme.com

www.divvies.com

Offers beautifully packaged peanut, tree nut, dairy, egg and seed free baked goods including candy bars, cupcakes, cookies, etc.

www.allergyfreecookies.com

www.meraby.com

www.peanutfreeplanet.com

offers a huge selection of nut free items in interesting sizes (large family size sunflower butter to small snack packs), etc.

www.homefree.com
Offers organic peanut, tree nut, egg and dairy free cookies and treats! Plus they sell cocoa powder, chocolate chips, vanilla and even barley flour!!!

www.allergyfreeshop.com

Party Ideas:

Link to Party Animals : Looking for a fun NON FOOD activity to do at your next meeting. Or a profitable fundraiser? Party Animals Company.We are a mom owned company that focuses on children with food allergies.

********
Disclaimer: Information on this website, AAPE added content as well as Google ads, should not be used as a substitute for responsible professional care to diagnose and treat specific symptoms and illnesses. Any reference to available products and procedures should not be construed as an endorsement nor are such references a representation as to the effectiveness or appropriateness of any such product or procedure. AAPE, including all parties to be associated with this group, will not be held responsible for any action taken by participants.

Tips and suggestions

moassessi — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 01:17:28 CST

Add your Holiday Survival Tip or suggestion here....

PBS FOOD Allergy Documentary

moassessi — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:59:49 CST

PRESS RELEASE on “I’m Not Nuts”: Living with Food Allergies

Kevin Lindenmuth of Brimstone Media Productions, LLC has recently completed a new 84 minute documentary on food allergies entitled “I’m Not Nuts”: Living with Food Allergies.

This is Lindenmuth’s seventh documentary and he cites that one of the reasons he embarked on this project is because his two nieces have various food allergies. The program is independently produced and self-financed. His previous documentaries include “But You Look So Well...” (2001) and “But You Still Look So Well...”: Living with Multiple Sclerosis (2005), both which were broadcast nationally on PBS.

PBS Broadcasts:

A one-hour version will premiere on Detroit Public Television in March, followed by the National PBS broadcasts beginning in April/May of 2009, to coincide with “Food Allergy Awareness Week” May 11-17th, 2009. The one-hour version will be 25 minutes shorter than the DVD version.

As the program is sent to the individual PBS stations via satellite ahead of time (March) it is up to the individual PBS stations to decide if they are picking up the program and also when they schedule to broadcast it. The more the stations know about the program ahead of time the better, especially with “Food Allergy Awareness Week” being in May. This is the most opportune time for them to broadcast it.

How to make sure your PBS station shows this documentary:

If you wish to make certain your local PBS station broadcasts the program in May of 2009 please contact the programming department at your station directly, during the next several months. The program is being supplied by NETA, a company which supplies programming to PBS, and they will be offering the program in April via satellite. NETA does limited publicity so the best way for the stations to hear about this is through their viewers.

Here is a direct link to the clip on youtube.com

http://www.lindenmuth.com/documentaries/allergies.shtml

Also, email FAAN and The Food Allergy Initiative to include information on this production. We have sent them DVDS, emailed them nu merous times, but they are mysteriously silent about the program. And FAAN is featured in the program!

Synopsis of the documentary:

In recent years the word “allergy” has become a catch-all phrase.The term “food allergy” ismisinterpreted as anything from a stomach ache to a rash, most often confused with a food intolerance. What many people do not understand is that food allergies are serious and can be life-threatening, just as an allergy to bee stings can be fatal.

Through the experience of several families consisting of both children and adults with food allergies, this program clarifies the misinformation people commonly have about food allergies. Most importantly, it illustrates that food allergies are somethinga personcan live with.20Several medical professionals such as Dr. Scott Sicherer of the Jaffe Food Allergy Institute and doctors Harvey Leo and Ben Song of the Allergy & Immunology Associates of Ann Arbor discuss the possible causes of food allergies and its impact on the parents,the allergic child, and siblings. Other topics include the daily routine of an allergic individual; the time and energy that goes into preparing to eat out, going to the park, visiting family and friends, andaddressing the lack of understanding and education of people who are unaware of the danger of this condition.

Supports groups include founder Melissa Dalton, of COFAF (Circle of Food Allergic Families) and Terry Furlong, co-founder of FAAN (Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network), the largest advocacy organization for food allergies in the world.

The various coping challenges and strategies--medical, emotional and social—are addressed as are the positiveinsights people have gained from learning to effectivelylive with food allergies on a daily ba sis.

Where to buy the DVD:

The DVD (84 minutes) is now available directly from www.lindenmuth.com/documentaries and will soon available through Amazon.com, Library Video Company and other video distributors that sell to libraries and schools.

For more information contact: KJLindenmuth@aol.com

--------------------------------------------------------------

QUOTES on ALLERGY DOCUMENTARY as of 11/12/2008

“A must see DVD”

Vermont Food Allergy Organization

“Am I allowed to make this required viewing for every childcare worker and educator in the country? Because I’d like to. This film clearly and carefully lays out the basics of what it’s like to be food allergic and/or to have a food-allergic child.” -- GoDairyFree.com

“a useful guide to food allergy for the newly diagnosed, and includes medical commentary from some well-respected names in food allergy research.”

--Peanut Allergy UK’

Links: http://healthymeals.nal.usda.gov/schoolmeals/Resource_Cafe/Resource_Details.php?ID=1657

http://www.godairyfree.org/Product-Reviews/Books-and-Cookbooks/I-m-Not-Nuts-DVD.html

1st newspaper article on documentary

http://blog.mlive.com/lcn/2008/03/food_allergy_documentary_by_lo.html

Bighorn Basketball Game Information

moassessi — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:48:59 CST

AAPE families and friends have been invited to enjoy night of basketball for ONLY $10 per ticket. A portion of your ticket purchase will benefit our local American Lung Association, who is a strong supporter of AAPE. See below for details....

December 12 @ 7pm
Reno Bighorns vs. the Anaheim Arsenal
Join us at the second game of the first season for
Reno’s new NBA D-League basketball team

A great, inexpensive night out and you support the American Lung Association of Nevada
when you purchase tickets in advance (use the form below)

$10 tickets: invite your family, your company, your friends.

Please complete and mail the bottom portion of this letter to the address at the bottom of the page.

Gwen Bourne, American Lung Association of Nevada, 775-829-5873
gbourne@lungnevada.org

………………………………………………………………………………………FILL OUT COMPLETELY………………………………………………………………………………………………….

American Lung Association Night Dec 12th

Name:________________________________________ Phone:____________________________

Address:_________________________________ City:______________ State:_____ Zip:__________

Company:_____________________________ Email Address: _____________________________________
(Include email to receive confirmation your form was received)

No. of ticket(s):_____x $10=_________

Type of payment: CHECK VISA MASTERCARD AMERICAN EXPRESS

Visa/MasterCard/Discover #:______________________________ Exp. Date: _________ CVC Code: _______

Name on Credit Card:__________________________________________
TICKETS WILL NOT BE MAILED-PICK UP AT WILL CALL WINDOW
Make checks payable to: The Reno Bighorns
Mail to: Jeff Simpson, Reno Bighorns 300 N Center St. Reno NV, 89501

Articles

moassessi — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 21:44:17 CST

The Center for Disease Control October 2008 Report on Food Allergies

http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db10.htm

Managing Food Allergies at School
Read "Attack of the Killer Peanut Butter Sandwich" by Linda Coss click here
Linda discusses to non-food allergy parents what a peanut butter sandwich at school can mean.

********************************************************************************************************************************

MAGAZINES

Allergic Living Magazine: http://www.allergicliving.com/features.asp?copy_id=36