The following account is penned by Morgan Klachefsky, a resident of Winnipeg. For more on CBC’s First Person narratives, refer to the FAQ.
At just 18 months old, my son Simon had a severe allergic reaction to a cashew, leading to a rush to the Winnipeg HSC Children’s Emergency Department. His face swelled, and it was confirmed that he was experiencing anaphylaxis due to a deadly cashew and pistachio allergy.
The experience left a lasting impact, making me aware of the looming threat my child faced. Determined to protect Simon, I delved into educating myself and those around him, attending classes on managing anaphylactic allergies. However, the weight of fear and control grew, hindering my trust in others to care for Simon.
Over time, witnessing Simon’s resilience and zest for life inspired me to address my mental well-being, realizing that fear should not dictate our lives. I gradually relinquished control, allowing Simon more freedom and fostering trust in his peers’ parents, who were supportive and vigilant about his allergies.
As Simon matured, I empowered him to understand his allergies and take responsibility for his safety. With his increasing independence, I taught him to read labels, administer his EpiPen, and be cautious about food choices. Encouraging open communication, I shared stories of the importance of vigilance and collaboration in maintaining his well-being.
I realized that fear was running the show, and my controlling behaviour was not helping anyone.– Morgan Klachefsky
This past summer marked a milestone as Simon ventured to sleepaway camp, a significant step towards independence. Despite initial apprehension, I entrusted his safety to trusted individuals and Simon himself, paving the way for future growth and self-reliance.