Nuts

Having a nut allergy has affected many parts of my life, especially when it comes to playing softball, going to the gym, and hanging out with friends. In softball, I always have to be extra careful about what snacks or team treats are being shared, since even something small could cause a serious reaction. It can feel stressful because I have to constantly check ingredients or ask questions, which sometimes makes me feel different from my teammates. At the gym, it also impacts me because a lot of protein bars or shakes contain nuts or are made in facilities that process them. This limits my options and forces me to plan ahead more than others might have to. When I’m hanging out with friends, my allergy can sometimes make things complicated, like choosing where to eat or making sure food is safe. I don’t want to seem difficult, but my safety always has to come first. At the same time, this experience has made me more responsible and aware of my health. It has also taught me how to speak up for myself and educate others about food allergies, which is an important skill I will carry with me in the future.