Growing up with food allergies has been a constant presence in my life. From a young age, I learned to navigate a world where everyday foods like nuts and shellfish could pose serious risks to my health. My siblings also share this reality, suffering from severe food allergies that have led to numerous hospital visits over the years. Watching my sister endure life-threatening allergic reactions and the subsequent hospitalizations is a memory that haunts me. The fear, helplessness, and anxiety that come with such experiences are difficult to forget, and it is those moments that have shaped my passion for food allergy advocacy.

In 2018, a particularly severe incident involving my sister changed everything. Within the span of a week, she experienced two anaphylactic reactions, which became a turning point for me. It was then that I realized the importance of empowering those who feel vulnerable because of their food allergies. I wanted to help children like my sister feel stronger, more confident, and better understood by their peers and society.

This inspired me to launch a podcast dedicated to food allergies, where I could provide a platform for open discussions and awareness. The podcast features special guests such as celebrity chefs, immunologists, parents, and university professors, all sharing their unique perspectives on food allergies. Through these conversations, I aim to shed light on the various ways food allergies affect people, from the physical risks to the emotional and psychological impacts. It has been an eye-opening experience, as I've learned not only from my personal story but also from the insights of experts in the field.

Beyond the podcast, I also published a book called The Hidden Hero, a story about a young girl living with food allergies. The goal of the book was to help young readers see themselves in the protagonist, to feel understood and less isolated. One of the most rewarding moments was when a little girl dressed up as the main character of The Hidden Hero for Halloween, showing me how much of an impact the book had. 

I also worked with a professor from Columbia University to conduct a two-year-long qualitative research study on how food allergies affect mental health. Through interviews with teenagers, we explored the emotional toll and social isolation that often accompany food allergies. This research was a significant step in understanding the broader implications of living with this condition.

This summer, I had the opportunity to intern at Pfizer, where I gained hands-on experience in the pharmaceutical industry. I worked closely with professionals to understand the development of drugs and products that can potentially improve the lives of people like my siblings and I. This internship allowed me to connect my advocacy work with the technical knowledge of product development, further fueling my desire to make a difference.

Date: 10/2/2024