So, we spent weeks with the school staff discussing how to handle Nick's tree-nut allergy at Seabeck. They assured me that no snacks are allowed there and that it wouldn't be a problem. I've been offered mixed nuts twice by parents and even been asked about bringing snacks for the kids by visiting parents for the kids. These are snacks that I know Nick shouldn't eat. One of the parents eating cashews was assigned to Nick's group and was headed over to work with them. She was surprised when I asked her to wash her hands. Before that, she wiped her hands on her pants four times. I watched, wishing I could say something more.
Do I expect people to change their diets for four days to accommodate my son? It's an interesting question. Here's my short answer: yes. My longer answer is that if your child could possibly die from my actions, I'd be working hard to keep that from happening. I would really appreciate the same courtesy from you.
Courtesy. A funny word for an action that might be lethal.
I also know that if I were responsible for a child's death, my life would be altered. It would be a very difficult change to live with. So do these parents actually think that it isn't as serious as we claim? Seems like it.
I'm tired. I have to tell you that I took a handful of the cashews when they were offered. Then I didn't touch anything else with that hand until I went in to wash my hands. That makes me a hypocrite, doesn't it. I wish I hadn't, but I did.
Thank you for listening, jb
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