bury st Edmunds Mum Details Family’s Life with Daughter’s Severe Allergies
BURY ST EDMUNDS, SUFFOLK – A Bury St Edmunds mother is speaking out about the challenges of raising a child with multiple life-threatening allergies following a severe anaphylactic reaction her daughter experienced as an infant. Naomi Nicholson, now under the care of West Suffolk Hospital, suffered the reaction to peanut butter at seven months old, requiring four EpiPen injections and readiness for intensive care.
Danielle Nicholson,29,and her husband Sam,30,have since navigated countless hospital visits,allergy tests,and trials to manage Naomi’s allergies,which now include eggs,dairy,peanuts,peas,and tree nuts.
“Time which should be filled with the joy of introducing new foods has sadly been filled with challenges and uncertainty,” Danielle Nicholson said. “We have no history of allergies in the family so we’ve had to learn it all ourselves. It’s an everyday fear and it has taken a really massive toll on us – waiting if and when a reaction is going to happen.”
The couple meticulously checks food labels for allergens and “may contain” warnings,significantly restricting Naomi’s diet. They also carry a medical kit at all times and carefully plan travel to ensure proximity to medical facilities.
speaking following Anaphylaxis Awareness Week, Danielle Nicholson emphasized the need for increased awareness and support for those living with food allergies. She highlighted the work of organizations like The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation and Kitt Medical, which advocate for clearer allergy labeling and compulsory EpiPen access in schools to protect children at risk of anaphylaxis.