Most of us have grown up with McDonalds happy meals, and continue the tradition with our own children. My 10 year old and 6 year old kids know Friday after school means a trip to McDonald's ! However I'm also a parent to a food allergy child who is just about ready for his first Happy Meal. Unfortunately he won't be able to see what the whole red box is all about and our Friday's at McDonalds will stop.   

What is food allergy?  It's the way our body or immune system reacts after a certain food is eaten. Some symptoms of a reaction can include digestive problems, hives, or swollen airways. Severe reactions can be life-threatening, many have lost their lives when not knowing they eat a food containing an allergen or even simply by cross contamination. Such as cooking something with the same spatula  that the person is allergic can be deadly. 

Researchers estimate that 32 million Americans have food allergies some have more than one! About 5.6 million children under age 18, that's one in 13 children!  

Many won't see the importance or the heart wrench when a child or loved one is diagnosed with a food allergy. My child has to carry an EpiPen, an injection containing epinephrine, a chemical that Narrows blood vessels and opens airways in the lungs, incase of an emergency. We spend hours at home searching for foods and reading labels and  ingredients . There is no quick run to the grocery store, food allergy parents and individuals have to check that every store bought item is okay to eat! 

My child was diagnosed as a baby with high milk allergy and eczema. At 6 months he was diagnosed also allergic to beef ( including beef broth, gelatin) and mushrooms . 

What do I ask for? Speaking out for my child and the 5.6 million children with food allergies. McDonalds please make adjustments to your menu!!! Give our children a chance to smile as they taste their first allergy friendly Happy Meal. Don't fry the chicken nuggets in the same oil as the buttermilk tenders. Substitute the milk in your fries recipe.  

Please learn more about food allergy, and sign this petition. Together we can make a difference.