No GF Pirate Cruise For You*! *If you have a nut allergy, that is!

[Rudegrle]

My 8 year old daughter is severely peanut and tree nut allergic. We carry epi-pens everywhere we go, along with Benedryl. She also wears a medic allert bracelet. I personally have no expectations that WDW restaurants or any other business (including my child's school cafeteria) will change the types of food that they serve. My child carries her food for the school day in her lunch box from home. When other parents send cupcakes for their child's birthday to school...she doesn't eat them. I send a special snack in her lunchbox for her if I know about it in advance. We do not eat bakery foods, scoop ice cream, and many other foods that can be cross-contaminated.

My child will be surrounded by foods she can't eat her entire life. This is a very painful fact of life that she must learn to accept and I must help her to do so. I also do not allow my child to be in food situations without me or another trusted adult family member. I would not send her on the pirate cruise even if the food seemed "safe" simply because accidental exposure can happen no matter how seemingly safe the food may be. She is not yet old enough to handle this situation on her own, and we can't assume that the people in charge will know how to respond.

Is all of this fair? No...but then, no one said life is fair. Does my child miss out on a lot that other children take for granted? Yes, she does...and I grieve when it happens. But that is the lot we have been dealt and we will deal with it. I don't expect the world to conform to our special needs, therefore, she doesn't expect it either. Since she knows this is a fact of life for her, she doesn't even question it when we determine something is unsafe. We simply move on and find a substitute. This is the attitude that we want her to have as she moves through life with this condition. It is our duty to model this attitude for her and help her to develop it as well.

OP, I say to you with utmost sincerity and compassion, because I know how painful it is to have to deny a beloved child something because of their allergies...you are angry and hurt, and I understand. However, you will be doing your DS a disservice if you allow him to see your anger about this. He will have to accept that there are certain things he will be denied in life. It is unavoidable. If he sees that you think that the rest of the world should alter their habits to accomodate his needs, that will be his expectation as well and will make it harder for him to accept his condition.

Well said!!

 

[TMJR]

My 8 year old daughter is severely peanut and tree nut allergic. We carry epi-pens everywhere we go, along with Benedryl. She also wears a medic allert bracelet. I personally have no expectations that WDW restaurants or any other business (including my child's school cafeteria) will change the types of food that they serve. My child carries her food for the school day in her lunch box from home. When other parents send cupcakes for their child's birthday to school...she doesn't eat them. I send a special snack in her lunchbox for her if I know about it in advance. We do not eat bakery foods, scoop ice cream, and many other foods that can be cross-contaminated.

My child will be surrounded by foods she can't eat her entire life. This is a very painful fact of life that she must learn to accept and I must help her to do so. I also do not allow my child to be in food situations without me or another trusted adult family member. I would not send her on the pirate cruise even if the food seemed "safe" simply because accidental exposure can happen no matter how seemingly safe the food may be. She is not yet old enough to handle this situation on her own, and we can't assume that the people in charge will know how to respond.

Is all of this fair? No...but then, no one said life is fair. Does my child miss out on a lot that other children take for granted? Yes, she does...and I grieve when it happens. But that is the lot we have been dealt and we will deal with it. I don't expect the world to conform to our special needs, therefore, she doesn't expect it either. Since she knows this is a fact of life for her, she doesn't even question it when we determine something is unsafe. We simply move on and find a substitute. This is the attitude that we want her to have as she moves through life with this condition. It is our duty to model this attitude for her and help her to develop it as well.

OP, I say to you with utmost sincerity and compassion, because I know how painful it is to have to deny a beloved child something because of their allergies...you are angry and hurt, and I understand. However, you will be doing your DS a disservice if you allow him to see your anger about this. He will have to accept that there are certain things he will be denied in life. It is unavoidable. If he sees that you think that the rest of the world should alter their habits to accomodate his needs, that will be his expectation as well and will make it harder for him to accept his condition.

You said it perfectly!

 

[DeeCeeSW]

My 8 year old daughter is severely peanut and tree nut allergic. We carry epi-pens everywhere we go, along with Benedryl. She also wears a medic allert bracelet. I personally have no expectations that WDW restaurants or any other business (including my child's school cafeteria) will change the types of food that they serve. My child carries her food for the school day in her lunch box from home. When other parents send cupcakes for their child's birthday to school...she doesn't eat them. I send a special snack in her lunchbox for her if I know about it in advance. We do not eat bakery foods, scoop ice cream, and many other foods that can be cross-contaminated.

My child will be surrounded by foods she can't eat her entire life. This is a very painful fact of life that she must learn to accept and I must help her to do so. I also do not allow my child to be in food situations without me or another trusted adult family member. I would not send her on the pirate cruise even if the food seemed "safe" simply because accidental exposure can happen no matter how seemingly safe the food may be. She is not yet old enough to handle this situation on her own, and we can't assume that the people in charge will know how to respond.

Is all of this fair? No...but then, no one said life is fair. Does my child miss out on a lot that other children take for granted? Yes, she does...and I grieve when it happens. But that is the lot we have been dealt and we will deal with it. I don't expect the world to conform to our special needs, therefore, she doesn't expect it either. Since she knows this is a fact of life for her, she doesn't even question it when we determine something is unsafe. We simply move on and find a substitute. This is the attitude that we want her to have as she moves through life with this condition. It is our duty to model this attitude for her and help her to develop it as well.

OP, I say to you with utmost sincerity and compassion, because I know how painful it is to have to deny a beloved child something because of their allergies...you are angry and hurt, and I understand. However, you will be doing your DS a disservice if you allow him to see your anger about this. He will have to accept that there are certain things he will be denied in life. It is unavoidable. If he sees that you think that the rest of the world should alter their habits to accomodate his needs, that will be his expectation as well and will make it harder for him to accept his condition.

My son has no idea how angry or upset I am regarding this issue. I explained why he couldn't do the cruise and he is OK with it. I never try to give the impression that others should conform to him. As I said earlier, we have been dealing with a multitude of food allergies for years. My DS was able to say, "Im allergic to wheat, gluten, barley, egg, peanut, tree nut and shellfish" at age 3. Thank goodness some of these allergies have been resolved. The nut allergies never go away.

I am fully aware of the obstacles we will face and the disappointments. There have already been many. I am also an Epipen and Benadryl carrier. There's a pen at my son's school. I am a member of FAN.

DS will have PLENTY to do at WDW and will have plenty to eat, as he always has. We keep going back because of the way he is normally accommodated. Again, I must reiterate that my anger and disappointment lies in the inconsistency of the services provided regarding the pirate cruise. When I booked the Albatross last year, I discussed the peanut allergy and HONESTLY did not expect to be accomodated, but amazingly I was. The recreation department at the BC told me that they would substitute the PB&J, no problem, without any prompting from me. THEY took the initiative and made the cruise possible for my DS. BTW, the kids eat their lunch OFF of the boat on the Albatross Cruise, so the boat was not an issue as it appears to be at the GF. The chef couldn't even tell me if the kids actually do eat on the boat at GF.

For those of you who seem to think I am willing to jeopardize my son's health and well-being for a 2-hour cruise, shame on you. That's all I'll say about that. I'm not an idiot.

For those of you who have been supportive and are in the "same boat" (pun intended), THANK YOU for your understanding.

 

[doombuggy3]

I only have met one person with a peanut allergy in my life and it sounds so hard to deal with, personally, I CANNOT imagine not being able to have half the things I enjoy like snickers and other products that are even processed on machines that peanuts are used on. I agree with most of the discussions and think it's a shame disney doesn't accomidate more to suit everyone (though they've done a lot more recently to accomidate disabled patrons), but at least you're going to Disney because there are other things to do! It sounds like you're frustrated (I think I would be peeved too), but take a deep breath and just smile because I'm sure your DS will have a great time no matter what.

 

[dizcrazee]

DeeCeeSW, no offense intended, I assure you. I know how hard it is to deal with this. I merely wanted to explain my position and point of view on this very difficult situation.

 

[DeeCeeSW]

I only have met one person with a peanut allergy in my life and it sounds so hard to deal with, personally, I CANNOT imagine not being able to have half the things I enjoy like snickers and other products that are even processed on machines that peanuts are used on. I agree with most of the discussions and think it's a shame disney doesn't accomidate more to suit everyone (though they've done a lot more recently to accomidate disabled patrons), but at least you're going to Disney because there are other things to do! It sounds like you're frustrated (I think I would be peeved too), but take a deep breath and just smile because I'm sure your DS will have a great time no matter what.

I appreciate your compassion regarding the situation. We don't need no stinkin' pirate cruise to have a good time at WDW, LOL. I'm sure fun will be had by everyone. I will find some other special thing for us to do outside of the parks.

 

[DeeCeeSW]

DeeCeeSW, no offense intended, I assure you. I know how hard it is to deal with this. I merely wanted to explain my position and point of view on this very difficult situation.

Not offended in the least. Just wanted you to know that I normally keep my cool when these disappointments occur, but this hit me kind of hard and I needed to vent.

I am realistic about his situation and know that this is cake compared to what will probably come in the next few years with regular school and peer pressure, etc.

Thanks for your input.

 

[Ilovestitch]

But say your child is allergic to peanuts so they change it to something else. Then another child is allergic to that, then they change it and someone else is allergic to another ingredient. Where would it stop? I think just to make it simple they serve one item.

Kinda OT but I thought I heard awhile ago that they were stopping serving peanuts on airplanes b/c of allergies. Yet on all the flights I've been on in the last few years they still serve baggies of peanuts- I can only imagine when you are in an enclosed place like that and people are spreading peanut residue everywhere it could be bad. Even if they didn't serve them on your flight, I would think residue would still be everywhere. What do they do for peanut allergies on airplanes?

 

[BriNJ]

We're going to be in WDW from 2/15-2/23- and have the pirate cruise booked. I plan on cancelling it though. DS is 5 and is allergic to tree nuts but not to peanuts, though we do not allow him to eat peanuts. We were told that it shouldnt be a problem to make sure that he doesnt eat the uncrustables and that nothing else should be a problem. But after reading your post, I think I'm going to cancel. I wasn't comfortable to begin with and its just not worth the risk. DD is assumed to be allergic as she has severe seasonal allergies (she's 4).

Living with nut allergies is hard. Its a lifelong committment and extremely frightening because you can only do so much to protect your child. We go to WDW because it really is the only vacation spot that we know will not only accomodate him but will do it happily- and go out of thier way for them.

I'm sorry that they were so blunt with you and sorrier still that you are hurt and angry. I dont blame you at all. Sadly, its something that you and I have to do. And its a small price to pay for wonderful children, I just wish that they didn't have to pay it.

Hugs
Bri

PS, ILoveStitch- for us, nuts on airplanes means no air travel for us. Its just too risky, so we drive instead.

 

[dizcrazee]

I know what you mean, it's relatively easy to protect them at this young age, but when they get older...I cringe inside every time I hear the story about the teenage girl who died after kissing her PBJ eating boyfriend. How are we going to be able to control something like that?

Also, I didn't mean to imply anything negative when I said we wouldn't let our DD do the cruise...I'm sure you are a very concerned and protective mother. I can tell you are 100% on top of this thing.

 

[DeeCeeSW]

I know what you mean, it's relatively easy to protect them at this young age, but when they get older...I cringe inside every time I hear the story about the teenage girl who died after kissing her PBJ eating boyfriend. How are we going to be able to control something like that?

Also, I didn't mean to imply anything negative when I said we wouldn't let our DD do the cruise...I'm sure you are a very concerned and protective mother. I can tell you are 100% on top of this thing.

Oh, that comment didn't bother me at all. The "shame on you" thing was definitely not directed towards you! I'm sorry if you thought I was upset. I hope I didn't offend you.

I completely understand you not wanting your DD to do the cruise. I was concerned about the Albatross Cruise, believe me, and it took a lot for us to let him go. He had a wonderful time without incident, thank goodness.

The future is scary. However, I actually heard a rumor about a pill/drug that is being considered for peanut allergy sufferers. Think lactose intolerance--pop a Lactaid type pill and you can eat ice cream kind of thing.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed that this will come to fruition!

 

[DeeCeeSW]

We're going to be in WDW from 2/15-2/23- and have the pirate cruise booked. I plan on cancelling it though. DS is 5 and is allergic to tree nuts but not to peanuts, though we do not allow him to eat peanuts. We were told that it shouldnt be a problem to make sure that he doesnt eat the uncrustables and that nothing else should be a problem. But after reading your post, I think I'm going to cancel. I wasn't comfortable to begin with and its just not worth the risk. DD is assumed to be allergic as she has severe seasonal allergies (she's 4).

Living with nut allergies is hard. Its a lifelong committment and extremely frightening because you can only do so much to protect your child. We go to WDW because it really is the only vacation spot that we know will not only accomodate him but will do it happily- and go out of thier way for them.

I'm sorry that they were so blunt with you and sorrier still that you are hurt and angry. I dont blame you at all. Sadly, its something that you and I have to do. And its a small price to pay for wonderful children, I just wish that they didn't have to pay it.

Hugs
Bri

PS, ILoveStitch- for us, nuts on airplanes means no air travel for us. Its just too risky, so we drive instead.

Sorry that you have decided to cancel your cruise plans. As everyone has pointed out, there are plenty of other wonderful things for our kids to do! Thank you for your sweet response. Have a wonderful trip!!!

 

[momsully]

I'm sorry to hear they have changed their stance on this. We did the GF cruise about 1.5 years ago and they substituted cheese sandwiches for the PB&J. My guess is they had an incident and have now changed policy. I agree they should change the food. IMO the kids don't even need lunch as they are back by 11:30 and could go to lunch then.

 

[DeeCeeSW]

I'm sorry to hear they have changed their stance on this. We did the GF cruise about 1.5 years ago and they substituted cheese sandwiches for the PB&J. My guess is they had an incident and have now changed policy. I agree they should change the food. IMO the kids don't even need lunch as they are back by 11:30 and could go to lunch then.

Aha! So they did do this in the past! You are right, something probably happened. I agree that there is no need for the lunch. The kids are there for the adventure and I'm sure they don't really care about the PB&J anyway.

 

[dizcrazee]

DeeCeeSW, you are right, there is a drug that has been developed that will lessen the severity of allergic reactions to peanuts to the point that affected individuals will only experience a mild reaction that will not be life-threatening. It will not enable them to eat peanuts, but will protect them in the case of accidental ingestion of a small amount.

My child's allergy doctor told me about it last February when we went for our yearly "refill the epi-pens visit". He said that it was already available for peanut-allergic individuals who also have asthma (asthma makes an allergic reaction even more deadly). It is still being perfected and is now adminstered by a shot. Also, it is very expensive and insurance companies are refusing to pay for it (duh). I seem to remember he said it's $800.00 a month. He said that the drug will probably be available on a widescale basis by the time my DD is an adult (she's 8) and be affordable and administered orally.

I pray for all of our sakes that he is right!

 

[Selket]

If you have the name of that drug for peanut allergies I'd love to know! I read about one developed a few years ago (or so...) and some drug company bought another drug company and they stopped developing it and started pushing another of their drugs that they were heavily invested in with the hope it would help peanut allergies. Apparently that one drug would allow someone with the peanut allergy to eat, say, up to 10 peanuts or so and not have a reaction - or have a mild reaction like a stuffy nose.

I think that drug will come eventually. William got type 1 diabetes when he was 26 months old and exactly a month later had his first reaction to peanut. I sometimes debate which is worse but I hate both.

Someone asked about flying...I know some people just don't fly at all. There *are* airlines that don't serve peanuts. Independence Air was one (they're gone now though ) There are other airlines that are good about peanuts. We flew Independence Air last summer with no problems - I'm going to miss them! Of course there is no guarantee the person who sat in the seat before you wasn't eating peanuts or that someone near you in the plane could have them. Generally one bag or one sandwich being eaten somewhat close by doesn't bother most folks - airborne reactions are rare (but happen). It rather depends on how sensitive one is.

Have a great trip!

 

[Deb & Bill]

I have a question. I don't remember kids being allergic to peanuts and other nuts when I was a kid. Now this was a long time ago (but since we've had telephones and television, not telling you how old I am), but what has happened to make this occur and create life-threatening situations?

Also, to the OP, perhaps they are concerned about what might happen with no parents on board for the two hours, especially after you mentioned how badly your son was allergic.

 

[dizcrazee]

Selket, I'm sorry, I don't know the name of the peanut allergy drug. I would check into it with an allergy doctor if I were you. You may be able to get it since your son also has diabetes.

To the PP with the question about the cause for the increase in food allergies, I don't think a definitive answer has been found. There have been some theories about food additives and processing, but no one really knows for sure. I've also heard it said that food allergies haven't really increased, but that people are just more vocal and aware of it now. I assure you, however, it is serious and life-threatening, and it's not just children...peanut allergies are lifelong and so are many others.

 

[JELBoggio]

I just wanted to say Thank You to the OP for bringing this to my attention. I, too, have a DS (4) who has a very severe nut allergy (we do the epi-pen and benadryl too). I booked the Pirate Cruise at the GF for our May trip and I mentioned to the CM to note his allergy, which she did. I'm not sure when I would've found out about the PB&J on the boat - I just am glad that I found out now and will cancel those plans.

I am thankful that, in general, Disney seems to be one of the safest places to bring a child with severe food allergies. However, anyone that has a child with these types of allergies knows that it is far better to be safe than sorry. One trip to the hospital is enough for me (we found out about his allergy the hard way).

It's amazing how understanding my 4 year old is about his allergy. I hope that when he is in his teenage years, he's just as careful about his allergy as I am.

Best wishes to the OP and others who deal with this on a daily basis.

 

[eeyore45]

Aha! So they did do this in the past! You are right, something probably happened. I agree that there is no need for the lunch. The kids are there for the adventure and I'm sure they don't really care about the PB&J anyway.

Interesting thread - informative, and ventful - and it reminded me, about a month ago a boyfriend kissed his girlfriend who had severe penaut allergies, she died - he had eaten a peanut butter sandwich...

I work at a school with a 2nd grader that has his epi pen etc in a fanny pak that is with an adult/him at ALL times, he's that allergic... altho we worry about recess, the "what ifs" worry us - I cant imagine what it does to his parents!!

and at the same time, in the category of "life is not fair," my son is hard of hearing... other children suffer in different ways, and to have a place like Disney to bring them to, to forget our cares, troubles, worries...

ah well I'm dreaming again!!

Thanks for sharing...