I would never choose to have an allergy to non-primate mammals, but I’m glad I do. Many people would think I’m crazy for saying that, and perhaps you do too. I understand others might not have that level of acceptance yet, but let me tell you why I’m grateful for it today.

First, I’m thankful for developing a gluten intolerance about 6 years before acquiring AG. It got me used to reading labels. It made me conscious about what I was eating and why, and I started to learn more about nutrition, where our food comes from, and how what we eat affects our bodies. And although I wouldn’t wish it on her by choice, I’m grateful my mom had celiac first. Because of her experiences, I was able to quickly recognize what was going on with me when I started to have trouble. She baked safe versions of my favorite treats for me, and told me about the best gluten-free brands on the market. Her blueberry coffeecake muffins are still my favorite!

I’m also grateful my dad, who happens to be a surgeon, was in town when I had my worst reaction. It didn’t require an ER visit (thankfully), but he kept an eye on me, told me to lie down when I felt faint, and to call my local doctor for an Epi-pen. My mom watched my 2-week-old newborn, who slept for a surprisingly long stretch during that reaction. It was a good thing I didn’t need to nurse him until I felt better. We hadn’t introduced him to bottles yet.

After this incident, my OB referred me to an allergist who had heard about AG at a conference about 6 months prior to my appointment with him. He said there was an audible gasp in the room when delayed anaphylaxis was mentioned as a confirmed symptom, as many people did not believe that could even happen. I’m glad he knew about a very specific blood test that confirmed his suspicions about me.

I’m also thankful for living in a country, day, and age where there are (although imperfect) laws about labeling food and ingredients. I can, to a certain extent, investigate the sources of my food. I can also choose to farm or grow my own if I like. Or, if I go to a restaurant, many places have allergen lists and/or knowledgeable chefs, many of whom have gone out of their way to make sure I was safe. Even my workplace has an attentive chef who lets me know what I can eat at our company lunches. I have so many options!

I’m even glad for the vegans, whose, at times, militant approach to protecting animals now makes it easier for me to find food and products that are safe for me. Even as a Christian, I’m grateful for those who have been respectful of Muslim and Hindu beliefs, as I have a better idea of what food and medications are best for me. And I’m grateful for the good advice and guidance of others with AG.

Really, I’ve had an easier go of it than some with AG, and I don’t take that for granted. Throughout this journey, I’ve been blessed. And I’m healthier and happier than I’ve ever been. Gluten and alpha-gal have driven me to pay attention to my health now, rather than later. And I’m thankful I can actually do something about it. I don’t just have to suffer through it.

If you’re not there yet, I hope, with time, one day you will be. Because it’s far more enjoyable to see the good side of things than to dwell on the bad.