New Job, New people, New Concerns

I started at two new jobs recently.  I try to usually ease in with my allergies.  I don't want to come off too intense or overly concerned, especially since I'm not either one.  I was pushed into telling my new colleagues about them though at my full time job in an elementary school, when I realized nuts were everywhere.  Many of the people in the room I am based out of, had started a diet for the new year.  In this diet, nuts are a big piece of what you are allowed to eat.  Once I saw everyone eating the almonds, I was concerned.  I told them about my allergies, and explained that they could still eat them, but if they were touching the doors, or papers or anything I also touch, that I would really appreciate them washing their hands.

That afternoon my lips felt a little puffy.  I decided it was probably from touching something that somebody who was eating nuts had touched, then touching my face.  I took Benedryl and was fine.  It did make me even more mindful of washing my hands more frequently, and speaking up about my allergies again if I needed to.  The people I am working with don't seem very knowledgeable about allergies.  I will try to educate them when opportunities present themselves.  I'm surprised that in this school environment, these teachers seem so naive and unaware.    

I know that schools are a big concern to parents.  When I was in elementary school, there were no signs on the door, or pictures of me hanging in the lunch room.  There were no "allergy-free" tables, rooms, or zones.  I was the only one in any of the three different school districts that I went to that had anaphylactic allergies!  Of course my parents were huge advocates for me, but being the only one, made it even more important to know how to take care of myself!  

There is a lot more to say on this topic, and I will continue later...