Susanne Gervay, a children’s author, shared her terrifying experience of developing a sudden allergy to prawns that almost took her life. Susanne, who had always enjoyed prawns without any issues, recounted the fateful evening when she experienced an anaphylactic reaction after consuming prawns at a restaurant. She began to choke, developed hives, had swollen eyes, and struggled to breathe. Thanks to her quick-thinking husband, she was rushed to the hospital just in time to receive life-saving treatment.
Reflecting on the incident, Susanne expressed shock at the sudden onset of the allergy. She had never experienced such a severe reaction before and had always relished prawns as a favourite food choice. The doctors diagnosed her with an anaphylactic reaction to prawns, a stark contrast to her previous ability to eat them without any issues. Despite the ordeal, Susanne was grateful for the prompt medical intervention that saved her life. She was injected with adrenaline and cortisone to counter the reaction and spent several days in the hospital recuperating.
The incident led to Susanne being equipped with an EpiPen, which she now carries with her at all times to manage potential allergic reactions. As someone who had a history of allergies, including reactions to stone fruit, nuts, and chocolate, she acknowledged the seriousness of her prawn allergy and the need to be vigilant. Even though she sometimes forgets to carry her EpiPen, she understands the importance of being prepared to handle any future emergencies.
Discussing the broader context of food allergies, Susanne highlighted the prevalence of seafood allergies among adults. While the exact causes of food allergies remain unknown, medical experts have identified connections between food allergies and other allergic conditions like asthma and eczema. Susanne’s experience serves as a reminder of the growing rates of allergies worldwide, with the World Health Organisation predicting a significant increase in chronic allergic diseases by 2026.
Despite missing her beloved prawns, Susanne remains grateful for the opportunity to spend quality time with her family, including her young granddaughter, Violet Rose. She recently completed a children’s book titled “Guess How I Was Born,” inspired by Violet Rose’s story as an IVF baby. The book celebrates diverse family structures and is set for release soon. While she navigates life with her severe allergy, Susanne emphasises the importance of prioritising safety and cherishing moments with loved ones over indulging in risky foods.
Susanne’s resilience in the face of adversity serves as a testament to the importance of raising awareness about food allergies and being prepared for unexpected health challenges. Her story sheds light on the complexity of allergic reactions and the significance of proactive management strategies. As she continues to navigate life with her allergies, Susanne’s experience serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the value of treasuring every moment with those we hold dear.