"The staff were extremely supportive"

My daughter age 10 has a severe peanut and tree nut allergy. We were hopeful that she may tolerate walnut but she required an oral food challenge in hospital to determine this.

We were welcomed on to the ward by Dr Doyle. 

We unfortunately had an anaphylactic reaction required adrenaline. Dr Doyle was calm and reassuring. My daughter administered her own adrenaline auto injector. Aimee the student nurse was lovely, reassuring and carried out her observations smoothly. Michelle the allergy nurse was also amazing. Dr McConnell came to reassure us after her clinic.

We stayed on the day case unit for the remainder of the day Sharon play specialist really entertained and reassured my daughter during her admission. 

Jess the early years student was excellent in distracting and helping my daughter.

Despite a negative outcome the staff were extremely supportive and encouraged my child.

I must highlight that the allergy team is excellent however we have waited an extremely long time for the opportunity for this test.  It is clear that despite the negative impact that food allergy has on family life, and quality of life it remains an unmet need with in the health service. Funding should be directed to paediatric allergy services. Hopeful that funding for this service improves. This team should be allowed to do more of their excellent work!  

Science continues to evolve at an incredible rate for food allergy yet I feel the chronic underfunding for allergy care will not meet the requirements for children to avail of new treatment in the NHS.