Contains: Courage FARE Summit 2019: Full Schedule

6:30pm EDT

Innovation Tank

We will kick things off with FARE's 4th Innovation Tank. This inspiring session will feature teens presenting their innovative ideas for improving the lives of people living with food allergies. Teens will pitch their ideas to attendees and a panel of judges, and voting will take place throughout the weekend. The winner will be announced Sunday morning.

Friday November 1, 2019 6:30pm - 7:30pm EDT
Riverview Ballroom

All Attendee

7:30pm EDT

Adult Social

Friday November 1, 2019 7:30pm - 9:00pm EDT
Riverview Exhibit Hall

Adult Attendees

7:30pm EDT

Teen Social

Friday November 1, 2019 7:30pm - 9:00pm EDT
Riverview 4&5

Teen & Young Adult

7:00am EDT

Wake Up with Yoga

Speakers

Melissa Engel

Melissa Engel is a Clinical Psychology PhD student at Emory University. She received her BA in Psychology from Emory and her MA in Developmental Psychology from the University of Minnesota. A self-proclaimed “autoimmune warrior,” Melissa has severe allergies to milk, eggs, peanuts... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 7:00am - 8:00am EDT
Pose Rooftop Lounge

All Attendee

9:00am EDT

Plenary

Speakers

Gian Paul Gonzalez

During the New York Giants’ 2011 Super Bowl run, much of their inspiration is attributed to Gian Paul Gonzalez(pronounced John-Paul). Prior to the Giant’s Christmas Eve game with the NY Jets, Gonzalez delivered the now famous “ALL IN” rally cry message during the Giants... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Riverview Ballroom

All Attendee

10:00am EDT

Innovation on the Cutting Edge: Advances in Research and Strategy*

This is an extraordinary time for advances in food allergy research and treatments. This fireside chat will feature leading medical minds for a discussion about the current state of research and the cutting edge research of the future.

Speakers

Ahmar Iqbal MD (M.B.,B.S.) MBA

Genentech

Ahmar is currently the Group Medical Director for Respiratory US Medical Affairs at Genentech. Among other things, Ahmar leads the scientists that work on omalizumab and pirfenidone.One of the major projects that Ahmar is working on is the Genentech/Novartis collaboration with the... Read More →

Joon Yun, M.D.

President, Palo Alto Investors, LP

Dr. Joon Yun is President and Managing Partner of Palo Alto Investors, LP, a hedge fund founded in 1989 with approximately $2 billion in assets invested in healthcare. Board certified in radiology, Joon served on the clinical faculty at Stanford from 2000-2006. Joon has served on... Read More →

Ruchi Gupta, MD

Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago

"Dr. Ruchi Gupta is a Professor of Pediatrics and Medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and a Clinical Attending at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago. She has more than 15 years of experience as a board-certified pediatrician and health... Read More →

Thomas Casale, MD

University of South Florida, FARE

Dr. Thomas Casale joined the University of South Florida in Tampa in October of 2013, as Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics and Chief of Clinical and Translational Research. Prior to that, Dr. Casale was Professor of Medicine and Medical Microbiology and Immunology and Chief of... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Riverview Ballroom

Adult Attendees, Registered Dietitian

10:00am EDT

Teen Ice Breaker

Start your day with this fun, interactive session and get to know your fellow teen attendees.

Speakers

Melissa Engel

Kyle Dine

Allergy Translation

Kyle Dine is a trusted food allergy educator and musician who performs engaging allergy awareness assemblies in elementary schools across North America. Along with his “Kyle Dine & Friends” DVD, which was funded through Kickstarter, his two CDs contain empowering and educational... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Cherry Blossom Ballroom

Teen Attendees

10:50am EDT

Coffee Break

Saturday November 2, 2019 10:50am - 11:10am EDT
Riverview Exhibit Hall

All Attendee

11:10am EDT

Accommodating Students with Food Allergies in an Age of Increasingly Complex Health Conditions

How do school nurses balance accommodating and advocating for students with food allergies in an environment of increasingly complex and often competing health conditions and disparities? In this session, Cathy and Elizabeth will talk about roles and responsibilities, developing effective partnerships between school nurses, families, providers and school staff, and how current laws and regulations govern school nursing care.

Speakers

Cathy Raisher, RN, BS, NCSN

Children's National Health Systems

Cathy has been a Registered Nurse for 44 years, working mainly in oncology prior to coming to school health. She has worked in school health in the District of Columbia since 1993, first as a school nurse for 16 years, then for 6 years as a Nurse Manager and for the past 4 years... Read More →

Elizabeth McDermott, BA, BSN, RN, NCSN

Georgetown Day School

Elizabeth started her career in education as a middle and high school science teacher. She has been a nurse for 25 years and a school nurse for the past 20. She is the nurse on Georgetown Day School’s PK-8 campus. Georgetown Day has a large number of students with food allergies... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 11:10am - 12:00pm EDT
Riverview 1&2

Adult Attendees

11:10am EDT

Overcoming Anxiety and Depression*

Anxiety and depression are common in children and teens with food allergies, and also in their parents. But the symptoms in children look very different than they do in adults. Dr. Herbert will discuss the factors that can encourage healthy coping as well as signs and symptoms that professional help is needed.

Speakers

Linda Herbert, PhD

Children's National Health System

Linda Jones Herbert, PhD, received her doctorate in clinical psychology from UMBC and is a licensed psychologist in Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. She is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology & Behavioral Health at Children’s National Health System... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 11:10am - 12:00pm EDT
Maryland 1, 2 & 3

Adult Attendees, Registered Dietitian

11:10am EDT

Reducing Hunger Together

Before her daughter was diagnosed with multiple food allergies, Emily had no idea of the tremendous added cost and lack of resources for those with a medically-restricted diet. This revelation led her to create the Food Equality Initiative, a non-profit focused on increasing access to allergy-friendly foods for those who need them the most. This session will address the barriers to accessing healthy food for those with medically-restricted diets, as well as how to develop health-focused partnerships to improve outcomes.

Speakers

Emily Brown

Food Equality Initiative

Emily Brown is an expert at turning adversity into opportunity. She is Founder and CEO of Food Equality Initiative, Inc.(FEI), a Kansas nonprofit founded in 2014 to address disparities in access to allergy friendly foods. Under her leadership, FEI established the nation’s first... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 11:10am - 12:00pm EDT
Azalea 2

Adult Attendees

11:10am EDT

Do's and Don'ts for Dads and Dudes

Food allergies don't need to stop you from living your life! Daytona and Eric will take you on a journey showing dads and dudes how to safely enjoy everyday life, participate in extracurricular activities, and advocate on behalf of others with severe food allergies. This dad and dude will share several real life experiences and their outcomes.

Speakers

Eric Hodson

Daytona's Father, a.k.a. Eric Hodson, grew up on a farm in south central Kansas. He graduated college with a communications degree and has been working in the field of advertising and public relations for the past 30 years. During that time, he has helped raise two children, one with... Read More →

Daytona Hodson

Daytona Hodson has had food allergies to peanut for his entire life. After moving from his hometown in 5th grade, he noticed changes in the awareness of food allergies of his new community. He decided to change that. Since then he has been a member of TAG for 5 years, had his city... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 11:10am - 12:00pm EDT
Azalea 3

All Attendee

11:10am EDT

From First Talk to Perfect Kiss: Have an Amazing Social and Dating Life with Food Allergies

Have you ever felt alone, isolated or misunderstood in a social setting because of your food allergies? I completely understand! Socializing and dating with food allergies can be challenging, especially because food allergies can prevent us from connecting with others and even with ourselves. In this session we will talk about how to “break the news” about your food allergy in a positive way, how to communicate your needs, and how to maintain confidence about your allergy around their family and friends. Let's get ready to conquer the world!

Speakers

Amanda Orlando

Founder, Writer and Photographer, Everyday Allergen-Free

Amanda Orlando is a food writer and recipe developer living in Toronto. She is the author and photographer of two cookbooks, the latest, Everyone's Welcome, releasing in May 2019. Her blog, Everyday Allergen-Free, aims to inspire confidence in those living with food allergies and... Read More →

Noreen Okarter

Founder, Food Sitch

Noreen Okarter is the founder of Food Sitch, a food allergy coaching company that provides food allergy lifestyle and education services. Food Sitch offers individual coaching on how to manage food allergies and offers food allergy training for organizations. Noreen is a certified... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 11:10am - 12:00pm EDT
Baltimore 1&2

Teen & Young Adult

11:10am EDT

Section 504, ADA & Higher Education: What You Need to Know*

This session will focus on the legal protections for post-secondary students with food allergies and related conditions severe enough to be considered disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Topics addressed include academic adjustments, modifications, and auxiliary aids and services, along with documentation rules and requirements, controlling cases, and recommendations for negotiating schools’ disability systems.

Speakers

Jim Long, JD

Jim Long Consulting

After graduating from the University of Texas School of Law and clerking for a Court of Civil Appeals in Texas, Jim Long served for 23 years as a Judge Advocate General officer in the United States Army. He is a former Senior Attorney with the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 11:10am - 12:00pm EDT
Riverview 4&5

Teen & Young Adult, Registered Dietitian

11:10am EDT

Managing the Mental Toll of Food Allergy During Adolescence

This talk will address the impact of food allergy on adolescent mental health by discussing the social implications of food allergy as well as anxiety and depression related to food allergy. Dr. Ramos will discuss symptoms of anxiety and depression, ways to communicate with caregivers about mental health symptoms, information on coping strategies and how therapy can be helpful for adolescents. Case studies and interactive activities will be used to engage adolescents and promote discussion of mental health concerns related to food allergy.

Speakers

Ashley Ramos, PhD

Children's National Health System

Ashley Ramos, PhD received her doctorate in clinical psychology from Texas A&M University and is a licensed psychologist in Maryland and the District of Columbia. Dr. Ramos serves as a pediatric psychologist in the Division of Allergy and Immunology at Children’s National Health... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 11:10am - 12:00pm EDT
Maryland 4&5

Teen Attendees

12:00pm EDT

Lunch and Vision Awards Presentation

Join us for lunch and the FARE Vision Awards.

The FARE Vision Awards provide an opportunity to recognize individuals, companies or organizations who support FARE in its mission to improve the quality of life and the health of individuals with food allergies, and to provide them hope through the promise of new treatments.

Saturday November 2, 2019 12:00pm - 1:30pm EDT
Maryland A, B, C & D

All Attendee

1:30pm EDT

ADA, Section 504 and Ensuring the Protection of K-12 Students*

Since the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (effective in 2010), school districts have been struggling to come to grips with conditions that formerly were not considered disabilities (e.g., episodic conditions such as severe food allergies). How can you help a school district understand and fulfill its responsibilities to students with severe allergies that may constitute disabilities? This session will address these issues at the K-12 level and address many common questions and concerns that come with putting food allergy accommodations into place for students.

Speakers

Jim Long, JD

Jim Long Consulting

Saturday November 2, 2019 1:30pm - 2:20pm EDT
Riverview 4&5

Adult Attendees, Registered Dietitian

1:30pm EDT

Food Allergy 101: A Crash Course for the Newly Diagnosed*

Newly diagnosed or caring for someone who is? Come to this session to learn about food allergy and what you need to know: from diagnosis to label reading and avoiding allergens.

Speakers

Kristin Sokol, MD, MPH, FAAAAI

Schreiber Allergy

Kristin Sokol, M.D., MS, MPH, FAAAAI is a board-certified allergist/immunologist and board- certified pediatrician specializing in the care of both adult and pediatric patients with a variety of allergic and immunologic disorders. She was thrilled to join the practice of Schreiber... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 1:30pm - 2:20pm EDT
Azalea 3

Adult Attendees, Registered Dietitian

1:30pm EDT

The State of Food Allergy Research: Views from the National Institutes of Health and Food and Drug Administration

If you are interested in hearing about the latest in food allergy research and the regulatory process for drug approvals, this is the session for you. Our own Chief Medical Advisor, Dr. Thomas Casale, will be joined by NIH and FDA officials to discuss these issues. You will have a chance to ask the panelists your questions.

Speakers

Lisa Wheatley, MD, MPH

Section Chief, Food Allergy, Atopic Dermatitis & Allergic Mechanisms, NIAID/DAIT/AAABB

Thomas Casale, MD

University of South Florida, FARE

Ronald Rabin, MD

Chief, Laboratory of Immunobiochemistry, Food and Drug Administration

Saturday November 2, 2019 1:30pm - 2:20pm EDT
Riverview 1&2

Adult Attendees

1:30pm EDT

Travel: What You Need to Know

Got food allergies, but like to travel? What legal protections do you have? What do you need to know about airlines? What about traveling internationally? What do you pack? How do you prepare? Is spontaneity even a thing? How do you manage to stay safe and still have fun? It might feel overwhelming, but you can do it.

Come to this session to learn about the current legal landscape and the practical tips you need to have a great (and safe!) trip.

Speakers

Lianne Mandelbaum

Founder, The No Nut Traveler

In 2013, following a negative travel experience with her family, Lianne founded nonuttraveler.com — an advocacy website for food allergic flyers. Her goal is to increase awareness of the seriousness of life threatening food allergies with an emphasis on air travel. The site... Read More →

Mary C. Vargas, JD

Managing Partner, Stein & Vargas, LLP

Mary Vargas is a partner with the litigation firm Stein & Vargas, LLP based in Washington, DC where she engages in nationwide impact litigation on behalf of individuals with disabilities including kids and adults with food allergies. Vargas has won key victories in federal courts... Read More →

Kyle Dine

Allergy Translation

Saturday November 2, 2019 1:30pm - 2:20pm EDT
Azalea 2

Adult Attendees

1:30pm EDT

Growing Up Allergic: Two Perspectives on Three Decades with an Allergy

Teddy and Jessica have both lived with life-threatening milk allergies for three decades, growing up 700 miles apart at a time when awareness and acceptance everywhere lagged far behind where it is today. “Cool! I know someone else who’s lactose intolerant, too!” was often the most common response to any personal introduction for either of them. Without much of a roadmap, they each learned to navigate major (and minor) life transitions -- determined to find positivity, humor, and opportunities for growth in everyday experiences.

When Teddy and Jessica met in 2017, it was the first time either of them had met another person with the same allergy. They were astonished to learn how similar so many parts of their lives had been -- their upbringings, their families and friends, their mentalities, their goals. Without knowing each other, and having grown up half a country apart, they spent years having the same experiences, eating in the same restaurants wherever they traveled and even attending the same college. So much was the same because of their allergy.

Since joining FARE’s Outcomes Research Advisory Board, Teddy and Jessica have worked together to help to bring a patient-centered perspective to the research priorities of the food-allergic community, especially in the ever-important psycho-social realm. They are excited to share their stories of hope, struggles, positivity, and unity with everyone -- patients, parents, doctors, researchers, and regulators alike -- in an effort to generate enthusiasm and strengthen the crucial bond within our growing allergy community.

Speakers

Teddy Kider

Teddy Kider is a 34-year-old attorney who has had a milk allergy his entire life and is a member of FARE's Outcomes Research Advisory Board. Teddy began his career as a newspaper reporter, graduating in 2007 from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University and then... Read More →

Jessica Marcus

Jessica has spent nearly thirty years living with a life-threatening milk allergy and has served on FARE's Outcomes Research Advisory Board. She recently completed a master's degree in public policy at Columbia University but previously spent many years working on efforts to end homelessness... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 1:30pm - 2:20pm EDT
Maryland 4&5

Teen & Young Adult

1:30pm EDT

Ask the Researcher

Curious about food allergy research? Come to this session to learn from Dr. Gupta, one of the nation's leading researchers. Teens will have the chance to hear about the current state of research, where the future of research lies and ask their food allergy questions.

Speakers

Ruchi Gupta, MD

Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago

Saturday November 2, 2019 1:30pm - 2:20pm EDT
Maryland 1, 2 & 3

Teen Attendees

1:30pm EDT

Facebook Workshop: Leverage Your Storytelling Power

Your voice and personal story can be powerful tools to help create a world where everyone living with food allergies feels empowered to live free from fear and labels. That is why we are thrilled to debut a fun a new and interactive experience at the Contains: Courage FARE Summit!

Led by the brilliant team at Facebook, these workshops will teach you how to leverage the power of storytelling to raise awareness and educate people on the seriousness of food allergies.

Speakers

Ashley Falcon

Facebook Client Solutions

Christine Chan

Facebook Client Solutions

Saturday November 2, 2019 1:30pm - 3:20pm EDT
Eastern Shore 1

All Attendee

1:30pm EDT

College Fair

If you've got questions about how colleges are accommodating food allergies, this college fair is for you. Meet individually with dining staff who help students manage food allergies at colleges and universities from around the country during this one-of-a-kind food allergy college fair.

FARE is pleased to welcome staff from:

Clemson University
Fairfield University
George Mason University
Kansas State University
Liberty University
Messiah College
Michigan State University
Oberlin College
Purdue University
Smith College
Stephen F Austin State University
Stonehill College
The University of Iowa
The University of Texas at Austin
University of Kentucky
University of Mary Washington
University of Rhode Island
University of Rochester
University of South Carolina
Wake Forest University

Saturday November 2, 2019 1:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Cherry Blossom Ballroom

Teen & Young Adult

2:30pm EDT

2019 Food Allergy Litigation: An Epic Year in Review*

Courts across the United States are deciding what rights kids with food allergies and other medically necessary dietary restrictions have to participate safely and equally in settings such as restaurants, birthday venues, after school programs, and summer camps. While the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 promise legal protections to kids with food allergies, this session will focus on how those rights play out in real life litigation. Disability rights lawyer, Mary Vargas, will share recent developments in food allergy law and discuss how to advocate effectively for the right to safe, full, and equal access.

Speakers

Mary C. Vargas, JD

Managing Partner, Stein & Vargas, LLP

Saturday November 2, 2019 2:30pm - 3:20pm EDT
Riverview 1&2

Adult Attendees, Registered Dietitian

2:30pm EDT

Ensuring Safety and Inclusion While Paving the Way to Independence*

One in thirteen children has a food allergy, and the numbers continue to grow. Food allergy incidences are now reaching epidemic proportions; diagnoses of anaphylactic food reactions increased 377% between 2007 and 2016. The implications of this issue in a school setting are wide-ranging. Schools must create strong policies and inclusive environments so they’re following the law and promoting the well-being of everyone in their community.

Progressive school communities are realizing how food plays a critical role in an inclusive campus. From supporting ethnic student groups and heritage months to ensuring that those with different diets feel welcome and are not bullied, food has a unique role in schools. Some broad-minded educators are proactively incorporating inclusive policies and curricula, including policies about food and food allergy management, to further their school’s mission and embrace all community members equally. This session provides a different expert lens on the role food can and must play in maintaining an inclusive school community.

Lesley Vogel, SAGE Dining’s Nutrition Director, will outline how schools can mitigate the physical risk of food allergies, explaining various scenarios of accommodations for this ADA-protected condition. She’ll explain the specific skill sets that students with food allergies should develop as they navigate their food allergies more independently each year. She’ll also discuss specific dining strategies for food allergy accommodations and the scenarios in which they work. She’ll provide examples of school-wide policies and explain how successful parent-student-school-dining communication matrixes are developed and implemented.

Participants will leave with tools to bring back to their community, questions to ask food service directors, and policy considerations for their teams.

Speakers

Brandon Jacobs

Faculty, Shipley School

Brandon Jacobs is been the Director of Diversity and Inclusion at The Shipley School. He previously served as the Director of Inclusion and Diversity and Director of Student Activities at The Hill School. He has presented both locally and nationally regarding diversity and inclusion... Read More →

Lesley

Nutrition Director, SAGE Dining

"Lesley is SAGE’s Director of Nutrition. She received her bachelor's degree in food and nutrition from Florida State University and completed her dietetic internship at Yale-New Haven Hospital. Before joining SAGE, Lesley spent over 20 years in clinical practice, first providing... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 2:30pm - 3:20pm EDT
Riverview 4&5

Adult Attendees, Registered Dietitian

2:30pm EDT

Navigate Research Like a Boss*

In today's (somewhat) social media savvy society, it has become more and more challenging to separate fact from fiction, the experts from the non-experts, and the evidence from the anecdotes. This is especially true in the minefield of medicine where a casual Google search can spawn pages of dangerously inaccurate information. Here, Stacey Sturner will offer a hands-on framework for how to successfully steer through scientific studies, evaluate credibility of sources and make better-informed health decisions.

Speakers

Stacey Sturner

Founder, Food Allergy Treatment Talk

Stacey Sturner is a 20-year marketing communications veteran with a special interest in healthcare and medical research. After her youngest child was diagnosed with a food allergy, she turned her attention to advocacy by launching the popular patient and parent forum, Food Allergy... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 2:30pm - 3:20pm EDT
Azalea 3

Adult Attendees, Registered Dietitian

2:30pm EDT

Mastering the Congressional Meeting

Every study of congressional communications agrees: In-person meetings are the most effective way to get what you want. We’ll give you more background on our advocacy priorities and show you how to execute the perfect meeting, from your initial scheduling call to sending your thank you card. We’ll even prove that meetings can be fun! We’ll wrap-up the session by unveiling FARE’s next advocacy campaign and showing how you can help.

Speakers

Lawrence Soler

Convergency

Lawrence (Larry) A. Soler is a partner at Convergency, a firm that provides advocacy and policy consulting to companies and organizations.Prior to founding Convergency, Larry was founding CEO of the Partnership for a Healthier America (PHA), an organization that was formed in conjunction... Read More →

Jon Hoffman

Director, Advocacy and External Affairs, Food Allergy Research & Education

Jon Hoffman joined the FARE team in August 2016, and is the Director of Advocacy and External Affairs. He brings seven years of experience in the digital advocacy realm, leading campaigns and utilizing new media to motivate and direct advocates to make their voices heard with legislators... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 2:30pm - 3:20pm EDT
Azalea 2

All Attendee

2:30pm EDT

Restaurants and Food Allergies: Staying Safe & Creating Change Along the Way

Eating out with friends, family, teammates, and others is an important part of our social fabric. However, doing so with food allergies can be nerve-wracking, whether at a restaurant, a college dining hall, a sports venue, or elsewhere. But you can do this! Knowing your own responsibilities, as well as the responsibilities of those serving you, is imperative, as is knowing the key questions to ask and who to speak to when eating out. If done right, not only can you enjoy the social (and tasty!) benefits of eating out more comfortably, but you can also have a direct impact on restaurants becoming more allergy-friendly. In this session, Paul Antico, Founder of AllergyEats, will speak to “the pact” between restaurants and food-allergic guests, how to communicate effectively with restaurant staff, and how to use your ”veto vote” to effect restaurant change for the better. Who’s up for a nice, tasty restaurant meal tonight?!!

Speakers

Paul Antico

Founder & CEO, AllergyEats

Paul Antico is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of AllergyEats. He is also the father of five children – three of whom have food allergies. Paul is a former equity portfolio manager for Fidelity Investments in Boston and a graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 2:30pm - 3:20pm EDT
Maryland 4&5

Teen & Young Adult

2:30pm EDT

Young Adults with Food Allergies Ice Breaker

Speakers

Kyle Dine

Allergy Translation

Saturday November 2, 2019 2:30pm - 3:20pm EDT
Baltimore 1&2

Teen & Young Adult

2:30pm EDT

Taking the Driver's Seat On Your Healthcare

There are so many decisions to make as a teenager, from the small ones like where to eat lunch to the big ones like where to go to college. Add decisions about seeking treatment into the mix and things can get overwhelming fast. Tessa, Ally and Maddie are three teens who have been there, and they're here to share their experiences, from how they decided to participate in clinical trials to what it was like.

Speakers

Joan Dunlop, MD

Johns Hopkins Division of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology

Dr. Joan Dunlop is an Instructor in the Division of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Dunlop received her MD from the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, and her MHS from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg... Read More →

Ally Kalishman

Ally Kalishman is a 16 year old from St. Louis, MO. She is currently allergic to nuts and shellfish and has been involved with FARE for many years. She has helped organize the FARE Walks in St. Louis for the past 4 years and has enjoyed being a TAG member for three years. When not... Read More →

Tessa Grosso

Maddie Waldie

Madeleine (Maddie) Waldie is a 17-year-old high school Senior from Sunnyvale, CA. She is a member of FARE’s Teen Advisory Group (TAG), a Black Belt in Tang Soo Do, and lead programmer and drive team member on her school's FRC robotics team. Maddie has worked as a High School Embedded... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 2:30pm - 3:20pm EDT
Maryland 1, 2 & 3

Teen Attendees

3:30pm EDT

Allergy-Safe Superheroes: Empowering Students in Classrooms & Cafeterias

This talk will give a synopsis of Owen's journey to becoming a kid chef, and using his allergies as the catalyst to transforming his elementary school cafeteria, and communicating with local policymakers, restaurants, and event planners.

Owen Osborne is the 2016 winner of Michelle Obama's Healthy Lunchtime Challenge, 2017 Grand Prize winner of Uncle Ben's Beginners contest, 2018 finalist in the Healthiest Kid Chef Cook-off, and 2019 finalist on Chopped Junior.

Speakers

Owen Osborne

Owen Osborne, 12, is a Shreveport, LA native. He is the 2016 winner of Mrs. Michelle Obama’s Healthy Lunchtime Challenge and Kids State Dinner. As the winner of the 2017 Uncle Ben’s Beginner $45,000 grand prize, he donated $30,000 to the cafeteria of his elementary school. He... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 3:30pm - 3:55pm EDT
Maryland 1, 2 & 3

Teen Attendees

3:30pm EDT

Understanding Immunotherapy*

Immunotherapy is one of the most widely-discussed food allergy treatment. This session will provide a look at the promise and challenge of multiple immunotherapy options (OIT, EPIT, etc.) from the perspectives of a patient, private practice and industry representatives. Come hear about where immunotherapy is today and where this treatment approach is going in the future

Speakers

Pharis Mohideen, MD

D.B.V. Technologies

Pharis Mohideen serves as Chief Medical Officer and is a member of DBV’s Executive Committee, responsible for continuing development efforts of the Company’s pipeline and bringing potentially innovative new treatments to patients, if approved. Dr. Mohideen brings nearly two decades... Read More →

Mimi Tang, MBBS, PhD, FAAAAI

Prota Therapeutics

Professor Tang is a Paediatric immunologist allergist at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, Australia; Group Leader of Allergy and Immune Disorders Research at the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute; and a Professor in the Department of Paediatrics at the University... Read More →

Thomas Casale, MD

University of South Florida, FARE

Rachel Schreiber, MD, FAAAAI

Schreiber Allergy

Rachel Schreiber, MD, FAAAAI is a Board Certified Allergist/Immunologist. She graduated Phi Beta Kappa, Cum Laude from the University of Maryland’s Honors Program. She then completed a research fellowship at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, and went on to... Read More →

Kimberley Yates

Founder and CEO, Latitude Food Allergy Care

Kimberley Yates (Grosso) has been a force for change in the food allergy community since 2009 when she first sought a cure for her daughter’s severe multiple food allergies. For a decade, Kimberley has worked to build and bring the allergy community together across the country... Read More →

Stephen Tilles, MD

Aimmune Therapeutics

With 23 years of clinical practice as a board-certified allergist and immunologist, Stephen A. Tilles, MD, is Senior Director of Medical Affairs at Aimmune Therapeutics. In addition to this role, he currently serves as Clinical Professor of Medicine at the University of Washington... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 3:30pm - 4:20pm EDT
Riverview 4&5

Adult Attendees, Registered Dietitian

3:30pm EDT

Unpacking Nutrition, What to Eat and How to Feed a Family*

People that manage food allergies think about food all of the time. But what about nutrition? For parents or registered dietitians who want to become an expert in nutrition and food allergy, this session will help them get there. The presenters will help you assess the risk for growth problems and nutritional deficiencies. The session will also cover strategies regarding both what to eat and how to feed kids. All tips and tricks are evidence-based and will help parents and nutritionists be proactive to prevent growth problems and nutritional deficiencies.

Speakers

Melissa Antal

Foublie

Melissa is from Kalamazoo, Michigan! Yes, it exists. She is a behavior change specialist and public health nutritionist, who one crazy day decided to go to business school. She has worked with moms from Michigan to Zimbabwe for over a decade. Melissa holds an MA from University of... Read More →

Juli Shesser, RD, MPH

Foublie

Juli Shesser is a Registered Dietitian with a Masters Degree in Public Health from the University of Washington. She has over 7 years of experience working with both children and adults and dedicates her work to helping clients take the stress out of mealtime. She has both professional... Read More →

Maria Rivera, MD

Foublie

Dr. Maria Rivera is a mom, preventive medicine physician, and board certified pediatrician. Through her work with Foublie she is combining her passions of working with parents, wellness and eating good food! She is currently on faculty in the Department of General Pediatrics at Stanford... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 3:30pm - 4:20pm EDT
Riverview 1&2

Adult Attendees, Registered Dietitian

3:30pm EDT

Why Treatments and Cures Start with Advocacy

Our community is 32 million and growing. But the federal government spends just 19 cents per person on food allergy research. A complex drug approval process makes treatments difficult to develop. D.C. policymakers need to do more. During this session, we’ll show you how FARE will address these challenges and how our advocacy program will lead the way.

Speakers

Mike Kondratick

Relate Advocacy

For 19 years, Mike has worked in public affairs focused on patient advocacy and healthcare.For six years, he was the Director of Grassroots Advocacy for JDRF, where his efforts helped raise nearly $2 billion for diabetes research. As a co-founder of Relate Advocacy, in Raleigh, NC... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 3:30pm - 4:20pm EDT
Azalea 2

Adult Attendees

3:30pm EDT

Your Food, Your Way: Developing Allergen-Free Recipes*

Cooking delicious allergen-free meals doesn't have to be difficult. Food writer, recipe developer and cookbook author Amanda Orlando has your back. Amanda will provide the how-to and the inspiration that will get you cooking in no time.

Speakers

Amanda Orlando

Founder, Writer and Photographer, Everyday Allergen-Free

Saturday November 2, 2019 3:30pm - 4:20pm EDT
Azalea 3

All Attendee, Registered Dietitian

3:30pm EDT

Beyond College: Managing Food Allergies in the Workplace

Much of food allergy support networks in elementary, middle, and high school, as well as college have begun to catch up with the needs that food allergies present: food allergy free classrooms, resources from nurse's offices, and allergy-free dining to name a few. But life on your own after graduation presents you with struggles and with no form of structure anymore to find those resources to make it through.

Through their own life experiences Sarah, Lisa and Maeve have learned how to successfully navigate interviews, having the "food allergy conversation" with your employer, working meals and traveling on the job and they are here to share their knowledge.

Speakers

Lisa Oddo Dunn, MS, CAADC

Lisa Oddo Dunn is a 31-year old mother and wife residing in Southern New Jersey with her husband, daughter, and English bulldog. Lisa was diagnosed with a life threatening peanut allergy at the age of 2 after ingesting a peanut butter cookie at the grocery store with her father. Since... Read More →

Sarah Ackerman

Sarah Ackerman, known to her followers as “The Girl Behind the Hive,” has been supporting allergy organizations and efforts since childhood. A professional actress, Sarah graduated magna cum laude from Brandeis University. She has spent her entire life navigating food allergies... Read More →

Maeve Willis

Maeve is currently an undergraduate admissions counselor for the University of Rochester, a job that requires she travel annually for 8-10 weeks domestically. Her interest in comics came from learning that Captain America had health issues that barred him from enlisting, and that... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 3:30pm - 4:20pm EDT
Maryland 4&5

Teen & Young Adult

3:55pm EDT

An Off the Record Path to Finding Your Freedom

It is time to talk about them; those unspoken situations that young adults with food allergies experience. Through relatable storytelling, discover how you can turn isolation into inclusion, find safety in spontaneity, and make steps towards self-advocacy. Come away from the meet up with an empowerment towards handling food allergies and inspiration to begin unlocking a love for your life.

Speakers

Nicole Ciuppa

Nutritionally Nicole

Instagram: @nutritionallynicoleNicole Ciuppa, Founder of Nutritionally Nicole, LLC, Food Allergy Advocate, and Content Creator has lived with multiple anaphylactic food allergies since infancy and grew up learning to adjust her diet while keeping the joy that food brings. With her... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 3:55pm - 4:20pm EDT
Maryland 1, 2 & 3

Teen Attendees

4:30pm EDT

Early Introduction of Food Allergens: New Research and Guidelines for Implementation*

New scientific discoveries are changing the conversation about introducing common allergens to infants. Join leading experts for a dynamic panel discussion that will address recent progress and the new guidelines for preventing peanut allergy, as well as what it means for other food allergies.

Speakers

Ruchi Gupta, MD

Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago

Andrew Leitner, MD

Ready, Set, Food!

Andrew Leitner, M.D. is a board-certified anesthesiologist and pain specialist. Motivated by his younger son’s experience with food allergies, he helped the Ready, Set, Food! team develop an evidence-based approach to early and sustained introduction. Dr. Leitner received his M.D... Read More →

Carina Venter, PhD, RD

Children’s Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine

Dr. Venter is an Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Section of Allergy and Immunology, at the Children’s Hospital Colorado and University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, where she is conducting research in allergy prevention and working with children with a range of food... Read More →

David Hill, MD

Before Brands

Dr. David L. Hill is the immediate past chair of the AAP Council on Communications and Media, a member of the AAP Council Management Committee, Assistant Medical Editor of Caring for Your Baby and Young Child: Birth to Age 5, 7th Ed, and editor of Pediatric Care Online Patient Education as... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 4:30pm - 5:20pm EDT
Riverview 4&5

Adult Attendees

4:30pm EDT

How Ordinary People Can Change the World

Does organizing at home and talking to an elected official make any difference? It's a fair question. During this session, you'll meet advocates whose advocacy work at home didn't just make a difference...it changed lives forever.

Speakers

Ondina Hawthorn-Silvera

Ondina Hawthorn-Silvera is a Special Education Teacher is one of the founders/Vice President of The Elijah-Alavi Foundation. The Elijah-Alavi Foundation was created in Honor of her son Elijah-Alavi who had passed away on November 3rd 2017, due to a tragic incident of an anaphylaxis... Read More →

Lawrence Soler

Convergency

Thomas Silvera

Thomas Silvera is a Certified Surgical Technologist & the Co-Founder/President of Elijah-Alavi Foundation. The Elijah-Alavi Foundation was created in honor of his son Elijah-Alavi who had passed away on, November 3rd 2017, due to a tragic incident of an anaphylaxis reactions. Now... Read More →

Saturday November 2, 2019 4:30pm - 5:20pm EDT
Maryland 1, 2 & 3

Adult Attendees

4:30pm EDT

Recognizing and Responding to Anaphylaxis

This presentation will explain what is happening during anaphylaxis and how it should be treated by patients and physicians. Symptoms are described and indications for epinephrine are explained, as well the epinephrine options currently available in the United States.

Speakers

Joan Dunlop, MD

Johns Hopkins Division of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology

Saturday November 2, 2019 4:30pm - 5:20pm EDT
Riverview 1&2

Adult Attendees

4:30pm EDT

Teen Group Photo

If you're an attendee age 22 or younger, wear your conference sweatshirt and join us for a group photo.

Saturday November 2, 2019 4:30pm - 5:20pm EDT
Lower Level Atrium Water Fountain

Teen Attendees

7:30pm EDT

Adult Social

Saturday November 2, 2019 7:30pm - 9:00pm EDT
Riverview Exhibit Hall

Adult Attendees

7:30pm EDT

Teen Social

Saturday November 2, 2019 7:30pm - 9:00pm EDT
Cherry Blossom Ballroom

Teen & Young Adult

7:00am EST

Wake Up with Yoga

Speakers

Melissa Engel

Sunday November 3, 2019 7:00am - 8:00am EST
Pose Rooftop Lounge

All Attendee

9:00am EST

Label Reading and Beyond: The Many Nuances of Allergen Avoidance*

A patient-specific approach to the allergen elimination diet requires a clear understanding of diagnostic methods, cross-sensitization and coexisting allergies, growth status, nutritional risks, food labeling laws, tolerance development, and nuances specific to the allergic phenotypes. This session will focus on the foundations of avoidance and also highlight recent advances in food allergy research to offer “food for thought” and practical suggestions for a more patient-specific approach to the elimination diet.

Speakers

Marion Groetch, MS, RDN

Jaffe Food Allergy Institute at the ICahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Marion is a dietitian/nutritionist and the Director of Nutrition Services at the Jaffe Food Allergy Institute at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York. A senior advisor to FARE, Marion supports content, advocacy and strategic partnerships, and serves as a subject... Read More →

Sunday November 3, 2019 9:00am - 9:50am EST
Riverview 4&5

Adult Attendees, Registered Dietitian

9:00am EST

Power Hour

Come for the education, stay for the fun! This session featuring 15 minute mini talks will leave you feeling inspired and ready to conquer the world.

Life After Diagnosis:
Being a parent of a child with food allergies is like being thrown into a swimming pool without knowing how to swim. You're confused. You're terrified. The only thing you can think to do is flail your arms around, hoping you won't drown. What you need is a community of support - let's build that.

Mother of Innovation:
Leah Lopez is the founder and CEO of Better Bites Bakery in Austin, TX. She is happily married and mother to two boys. When her youngest son was diagnosed with life threatening food allergies, she went to work to find a way to include him in the celebration of food. This super mom action has evolved into a national brand that brings joy to the 32 million people in the US suffering from food allergies. Leah creates a culture of all joy and no worries from the home, to the workplace, and into the marketplace.

Everybody Has Their Thing!:
Everyone has their obstacles in life. Kelsey's mom has always told her, "Everybody has their thing, this is your thing, it is how we deal with that thing and use it to make us stronger." These things do not define us, but they contribute to who we are. Growing up with multiple allergies wasn't always easy, but it can empower you to spread awareness and become your own best advocate.

Speakers

Leah Lopez

Leah Lopez is the founder and CEO of Better Bites Bakery in Austin, TX. She is happily married and mother to two boys. When her youngest son was diagnosed with life threatening food allergies, she went to work to find a way to include him in the celebration of food. This super mom... Read More →

Kelsey Austin

Kelsey Austin is a graduate of Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration. She is now Food and Beverage Manager working for Four Seasons Hotels and resorts. Kelsey has traveled extensively around the world and runs an allergy traveler Instagram account @allergytraveler... Read More →

Holly Bayardo

Killer Food Allergies Podcast

Holly Bayardo's journey into the complex world of allergies offers insight for all of us. Her raw, unfiltered, viewpoint is refreshing & much needed. The mom of a daughter with complex & terrifying food allergies, Holly is deep in the trenches of this confusing subject. With her... Read More →

Sunday November 3, 2019 9:00am - 9:50am EST
Azalea 3

Adult Attendees

9:00am EST

Specific IgE Blood Testing for Food Allergies: What You Need to Know*

An allergy diagnosis can be complex, and you may be left with more questions than answers. For example, what’s the difference between skin and blood testing? Do you need both? Are you a good candidate for a food challenge? How likely are you to outgrow an allergy? Are you at risk for an anaphylactic reaction? In this session, you’ll learn about the two types of specific IgE blood tests: whole allergen and allergen components. Allergen component testing can help you better understand your allergy, by providing insights that shed light on answers to all of those questions for foods including milk, egg, peanuts, and tree nuts. This information can help guide next steps and determine whether a food challenge is necessary.

Speakers

Lakiea Wright, MD

Thermo Fisher Scientific

I am a board certified Internist and Allergist and Immunologist. I completed my Allergy and Immunology fellowship training at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital. As Medical Director of U.S. Clinical Affairs, I lead market advancement of Thermo Fisher Scientific... Read More →

Sunday November 3, 2019 9:00am - 9:50am EST
Azalea 2

Adult Attendees, Registered Dietitian

9:00am EST

Tech Resources for Your Food Allergy Life

Navigating life with food allergies is challenging. You need to be informed, understand risks, plan ahead, and clearly communicate your requirements for staying safe to the multitude of people you (or your loved one) interact with on a daily basis. You also need to be prepared for the unexpected with the ability to handle reaction emergencies in a safe and timely manner. Living in this day and age is a blessing and a curse -- a curse because of the surging prevalence of food allergies without a cure in sight (yet); a blessing because the digital economy has spurred innovation of practical tools to help the food allergic navigate life safely, with more confidence and less anxiety. This session will provide an overview of website and app store-accessible tech resources, currently in-market, that can help people with food allergies stay safe while living life with a degree of 'normalcy' and an 'opt-in' mentality.

Speakers

Gayle Rigione

CEO and Co-founder, Allergy Force LLC

Gayle Rigione drives product development, customer growth and partnership development as CEO and Co-founder of the Allergy Force app. The app is a food allergy management tool that makes life easier for people with food allergies to live on-the-go – at home and abroad --with more... Read More →

Sunday November 3, 2019 9:00am - 9:50am EST
Riverview 1&2

Adult Attendees

9:00am EST

Conquering College

Food allergies can be difficult to manage at home, a place where you are surrounded by loved ones who know you and your sensitivities, a place where your meals are home cooked and someone can take care of you if you get sick. However, when you place someone with food allergies in an unfamiliar environment like college, the risks only increase. These worries can be easily waylaid through the successes and failures of individuals who have already encountered this great frontier and are willing to share firsthand experiences, and Anna, Julia, Allison and Caroline intend to be these people to help assure both teens preparing for college and their parents. We want to offer families the opportunity to hear the answers to all their college questions before they even know what to ask.

Anna, Julia, Allison, Caroline all attended different universities and present different perspectives on the college search, preparing the summer before your first semester, and living at school. While Julia and Allison both live on campus, Anna chose to live off campus, but still had a great college experience.
Allison, Julia, and Anna have all traveled with their schools; Anna participated and lead alternative spring break service trips, Julia went on a tour with her orchestra in China for 2 weeks, and Allison spent a semester in Italy. Allison also has a unique perspective as an intern with her college Dining Services’ team that can provide insight. Going to college to a critical time for personal growth, and for those with food allergies, it is an opportunity to develop confidence as you learn to advocate for yourself in a whole new manner. Together, these three are able to show their 3-for-3 success rate in doing so.

The session will begin with an introduction of ourselves, and a brief overview of our college experiences. However, the majority of the session will be audience-driven questions and answers. This will allow the session to be as impactful as possible for the audience members since they are in a unique setting where they can gain three new perspectives on what it means to manage allergies in college. and leave with an arsenal of tips and strategies for the process of searching for colleges and making their college experience safe.

Speakers

Aly Parry

Aly Parry is a third year Psychobiology student at UCLA. She was diagnosed with anaphylactic allergies to dairy, peanuts, tree nuts, and eggs at 4 months old and has outgrown all of them except for dairy. Aly has been navigating college life 500 miles away from home, while having... Read More →

Allison Davin

Allison Davin is a senior architecture major at The Catholic University of America. She was diagnosed with severe food allergies to milk, eggs, beef, peanuts, lamb, sesame, carrots, strawberries, and tree nuts by the time she was 10 months old. When she was a sophomore in High School... Read More →

Anna Masciola

Anna Masciola is a recent college graduate, graduating in nursing from the University of Arizona in May of 2019. She is anaphylactic to eggs, dairy, chicken, turkey, peanuts, and tree nuts, and has both eosinophilic esophagitis and asthma. Anna is very passionate about making sure... Read More →

Julia Gray

Julia Gray is a junior at the University of Delaware with an exercise science major and minors in music and dance. She had her first allergic reaction at age 2 and found out that she was anaphylactic to peanuts and tree nuts, and then had another reaction at age 10 when she discovered... Read More →

Caroline Bingham

Caroline Bingham is a Sophmore at Virginia Tech. She is double majoring in Trumpet Performance and Neuroscience.Caroline has an anaphylactic contact allergy to peanuts and many other lesser allergies. When she isn’t studying, in the practice room, or playing in the Marching Virginians... Read More →

Sunday November 3, 2019 9:00am - 9:50am EST
Baltimore 1&2

Teen & Young Adult

9:00am EST

Advocate for Yourself: Navigating Food Allergies in School

Navigating food allergies can be a struggle for everyone, but especially tweens and teens going into middle school and high school. Many elementary schools have strong rules in place for food allergies, but as students get older rules become looser, making self-advocacy come into place. This session will focus on advocating for yourself in a school setting, from the perspective of four high schoolers. Through years of experience, they will share their stories of hardships and successes, how they handled them, and how they made a change in their own schools.

Speakers

Lizzy Anderlik

Lizzy Anderlik is a fifteen year old sophomore at Prospect High School in Mount Prospect, Illinois. Being a FARE TAG member, she strives to make a positive impact in the allergy community and was a part of last years innovation tank at FAREcon. Her concept invention, called the Rescue... Read More →

Sarah Mufson

Sarah Mufson is a 10th grader from Boonton Township, New Jersey and attends Morris County Tech, Healthcare Sciences Academy. This is her first year as a member of TAG and her third time at Teen Summit. She was first diagnosed at 11 months old with allergies to over twenty foods. After... Read More →

Diya Chabria

Diya Chabria is a Junior at Village Academy High School in Powell, Ohio. She is a dancer, singer, and actress. She also loves to advocate and help those with food allergies. She has been involved in many FARE events. Participated and help put together many FARE walks. She has been... Read More →

Amanda Rodriguez

My name is Amanda Rodriguez and I am a 17 year old Floridian. I am severely allergic to peanuts. Growing up with food allergies has been a big part of my life, since it has opened many opportunities for me. I am part of the FARE organization, to which I won a scholarship a few years... Read More →

Sunday November 3, 2019 9:00am - 9:50am EST
Baltimore 3&4

Teen Attendees

9:00am EST

Power Hour

Come for the education, stay for the fun! This session featuring 10 minute mini talks will leave you feeling inspired and ready to conquer the world.

Every Story Matters:
Many of us have felt frustration at times with how food allergies affect their lives. These small moments begin to add up to stories; our stories. These tales help to inspire our passion and fuel our activism. Elise has a story: of exclusion, growth, and education; a narrative that she shares with the world to create change. There are 32 million of us, Americans with allergies, and we all navigate daily life with restrictions and risks. Capturing these experiences, sharing our stories, is the first step to creating change. Speaking up, advocating for change in everyday life requires only one story, your story.

#GotYourBack:
When you have food allergies, who has your back? In school? In your community? Anesha and Annika started the #GotYourBack movement to educate, inspire and empower kids with food allergies to advocate for themselves and others. With a little initiative, you can change your community!

Test into Testimony:
Bailey was 5-years-old and out to eat with her family when she had her first food allergy reaction. While terrifying, that episode changed her whole life. But her food allergies haven't just changed the way she looks at the world; they've changed the way the world looks at her. Sadly, the world's viewpoint sometimes feels like a sea of negativity. By sharing her story, Bailey has begun changing the conversation and you too can turn your test into testimony.

Speakers

Anesha Santhanam

Anesha Santhanam is a rising senior in high school from New Jersey, has been a member of FARE’s Teen Advisory Group for 3 years, and is allergic to all nuts, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, shellfish, and penicillin. Anesha has been involved with FARE since middle school and continues... Read More →

Annika Santhanam

Annika Santhanam is a rising freshman in high school from New Jersey, is a member of FARE's Teen Advisory Group, and is allergic to all nuts, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, shellfish, and coconut. Annika has been involved with FARE since elementary school and has been a mentor for younger... Read More →

Bailey Gibson

Bailey Gibson is a high school senior from Hot Springs, Arkansas. At the age of five, she was diagnosed with severe allergies to peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish. She serves not only as a volunteer but also a steadfast advocate for those with food allergies on the state and... Read More →

Elise Buellesbach

Student. Swimmer. Water polo player. Theater kid. All of these words describe Elise's activities and how she spends her time. Activist for change, believer in inclusion, insistent and intense. These phrases better describe her heart & soul.

Sunday November 3, 2019 9:00am - 9:50am EST
Baltimore 5

Teen Attendees

10:00am EST

My Child’s Been Diagnosed with Food Allergies. What Do I Do Now?

This session gives parents the next steps after their child has been diagnosed with food allergies. It equips them with the necessary tools on how to navigate meal planning and grocery stores; how to work with school administrators and teachers; how to survive holidays and family gatherings, as well as vacations and travel.

Speakers

Paula Lancaster

Paula Lancaster is the Lead Food Allergy Advocate, Consultant, and Educator for Paula C. Lancaster and self-published author of "Emma's Special Tummy," an invaluable resource for children with food allergies inspired by her daughter Zuri Emma, who lives with Eosinophilic Esophagitis... Read More →

Sunday November 3, 2019 10:00am - 10:25am EST
Azalea 2

Adult Attendees

10:00am EST

Fight the Stigma: Community College & Commuting With Food Allergies

As a community college student, Alexa is one of many who faces the stigma that community college and commuting to school both prevent students from having a complete college experience. With her food allergies, starting at community college, living at home and commuting to school was the best decision for her. Even without living or dining on campus she has been able to thrive in her classes, join clubs, have leadership positions, make friends, work part time jobs on and off campus and get involved in both the campus and local communities. Alexa will share her story about fighting the stigma and getting the most out of her college experience.

Speakers

Alexa Wyszkowski

Alexa Wyszkowski is 19 years old and lives in New Jersey. She is allergic to peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, legumes, mango, kiwi, banana and pineapple. Currently she is a full time community college student pursuing two associate’s degrees in Liberal Arts and Hospitality concentrated... Read More →

Sunday November 3, 2019 10:00am - 10:25am EST
Baltimore 1&2

Teen & Young Adult

10:00am EST

Allergy Prevention: Maternal Diet, Breastfeeding and Infant Nutrition*

There are many food and nutrition related factors during pregnancy and breast feeding that have been investigated for the prevention of food allergies but there is currently no clear guidance that can be given to pregnant or breast feeding women. Trials of early introduction of allergens show promising data for the early introduction of peanut. Egg introduction still poses questions regarding dose and form (raw/cooked) that should be given. There is still uncertainty about the age and dose of milk that should be given. The focus of introduction of solid foods is however to teach the infant to eat a variety of foods and this should form an important part of the weaning diet.

Speakers

Carina Venter, PhD, RD

Children’s Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine

Sunday November 3, 2019 10:00am - 10:50am EST
Azalea 3

Adult Attendees, Registered Dietitian

10:00am EST

Nutrition & Integrative Health: Managing the Care Gap for Multiple Food Allergies*

Overwhelm can be a common theme for anyone living with a food allergy, but for families with multiple food allergies even the most mundane meal can present monumental challenges. This session will discuss strategies to reduce family overwhelm and focus on nutritional and integrative health within this population.

Speakers

Emily Cerda, MS, CNS, LDN

Emily Cerda is a Board-Certified Nutrition Specialist with a LDN in the State of Maryland. She has a MS in Nutrition and Integrative Health from Maryland University of Integrative Health where she supports students in graduate level Physiology and Pathophysiology when she is not busy... Read More →

Sunday November 3, 2019 10:00am - 10:50am EST
Riverview 4&5

Adult Attendees, Registered Dietitian

10:00am EST

Transitions and Connections

Whether your child is graduating from grade school to middle school or moving away to college, transitions can be hard on a child – and even harder on the parent! Denise Bunning, a former elementary school teacher and food allergy mom of two, highlights her favorite tips and tricks to manage those tough milestones so that both the parent and the child don’t just survive, but thrive!

Connecting over a shared purpose has the power to not only make us feel part of a tribe but also to create change. Susie Hultquist, Founder of Spokin, the modern, lifestyle food allergy app, and Spokin Teen Ambassadors share their stories of how connections, in real life and increasingly on social media, can be empowering. Walk away with new connections and the knowledge that as a community, we can take it into our own hands to help each other discover a safe bakery or college as well as use our voice to raise the standard of care for the 32 million people managing food allergies.

Speakers

Susie Hultquist

Spokin

Susie Hultquist is the Founder & CEO of Spokin. At the age of three, Susie’s oldest daughter was diagnosed with life-threatening food allergies. Years later, after spending hours researching what (if any) Girl Scout cookies were safe for her family, the impact of how time consuming... Read More →

Denise Bunning

MOCHA

Denise A. Bunning is an educator, support group leader and advocate who works to improve the lives of children with food allergies. Denise earned a BA in Early Childhood/Special Education from Boston College, an MSED in Special Education from Northern Illinois University, and a CAS... Read More →

Sunday November 3, 2019 10:00am - 10:50am EST
Baltimore 5

Adult Attendees

10:00am EST

Teen Advisory Group Presents

Members of FARE's Teen Advisory Group are doing amazing things in their communities. Come to this session to hear straight from teens about how they're making an impact!

Sunday November 3, 2019 10:00am - 10:50am EST
Baltimore 3&4

All Attendee

10:00am EST

Teen Travel: Your Passport to Adventure

With the right preparation, you can do anything, including travel! From doing service projects overseas to living abroad to seeking adventure in Africa, these teens are finding ways to make it happen and they're here to share their tips for preparing and staying safe.

Speakers

Jackson Anderson

Jackson Anderson is a 16 year old Junior from Sarasota, Florida. He has life threatening allergies to eggs, nuts and treenuts. He has a passion for world travel, community service projects and helping to provide education for those in need at home and abroad.

Phoebe Frankel

Phoebe Frankel is a 16 year old Junior at Princeton High School in New Jersey. She is an avid traveller who loves to play soccer and piano. Her favorite subjects are economics and science.

Sunday November 3, 2019 10:00am - 10:50am EST
Riverview 1&2

Teen Attendees

10:25am EST

Navigating with Courage

For Lily Pinto, the journey from being diagnosis with life-threatening food allergies at three years old to a grown, fully engaged, empowered and kind young woman of nineteen…has been a walk of courage and compassion. For Jane Pinto, the sixteen-year journey has evolved from a fierce, strategic, loving protector to a proud, loving advocate… supporting Lily’s journey while consciously and necessarily letting go. Lily and Jane will take you through the many stages of living and loving with life-threatening food allergies. Their experience will show that each stage CONTAINS: vulnerability, humility, unconditional love… and of course humor.

“We never ‘move on’ from this very serious diagnosis and we must ‘bravely move forward with courage’ together. Join us.” Jane Pinto, Proud Parent & Founder of Don’t Go Nuts

Speakers

Lily Pinto

Jane Pinto

Sunday November 3, 2019 10:25am - 10:50am EST
Azalea 2

Adult Attendees

10:25am EST

Ready or Not Here They Come: A Food Allergy Parent's Perspective on the College Search Process

As the number of children diagnosed with allergies increases, the prevalence of food allergies on college campuses has also grown. This increase comes at the same time college enrollment is on the decline. In 2010, college enrollment peaked at just over 21 million students and attendance has dropped every year since. By the fall of 2014, 812,069 fewer students were walking around college campuses. One of the ways colleges have chosen to compete for students in this competitive market is by vying for students with food allergies.

As the parent of a daughter with life-threatening food allergies, a higher education professional, and someone familiar with FARE's College Food Allergy Pilot program, I will share tips and tricks for navigating the college search process.

Speakers

Kelly Evans-Wilson

Kelly is a higher education professional, doctoral student, and the mom of a daughter with life-threatening food allergies. Her food allergy journey began 17 years ago when food allergies became a way of life for Kelly and her family. She is currently completing her doctoral dissertation... Read More →

Sunday November 3, 2019 10:25am - 10:50am EST
Baltimore 1&2

Teen & Young Adult

10:50am EST

Coffee Break

Sunday November 3, 2019 10:50am - 11:10am EST
Riverview Exhibit Hall

All Attendee

11:10am EST

Agent of Change: Inclusion Is Possible

A lifestyle that requires management of food allergies can be tricky when it comes to having your child included in everyday activities and experiences. Even well-intentioned policies can result in exclusion and leave food allergic kids vulnerable to isolation and bullying. Seeing their peers have fun, while they are overlooked or left out as a result of their food allergies can be heartbreaking. Rather than retreating to a place of exclusion, you can take steps to promote and foster successful inclusion. By taking steps to educate your community, family, and peers, you can help foster environments that are open to working with your family. Successful inclusion is not a myth. You CAN build a support network that allows everyone to be included. You CAN be the change for a child with food allergies.

Speakers

Laura Acosta

Laura is the Mom to one amazing kiddo with multiple severe food allergies. Prior to her son's diagnosis at 9 months old, her family had zero history of food allergies. She has made it her mission to advocate and eduacate to spread awarness of food allergies on behalf of her son and... Read More →

Ali Wicks-Lim

Ali Wicks-Lim is a the mother of a teen with food allergies. She began her experience as a food allergy parent thinking that the hardest part would be managing food safety and potential allergic reactions. Instead she found that some of the biggest challenges were in navigating her... Read More →

Sunday November 3, 2019 11:10am - 12:00pm EST
Azalea 2

Adult Attendees

11:10am EST

Ask the Teens

Have questions you wish you could ask your teen? Adults in this session will get a chance to hear the teen perspective on challenges faced as kids grow older and want more independence. Come to this session prepared to ask a panel of teens your questions.

Sunday November 3, 2019 11:10am - 12:00pm EST
Riverview 4&5

Adult Attendees

11:10am EST

Have Your Cake & Eat It Too*

Have you ever walked out of a bakery or restaurant because you were concerned about safe options for you or your child? If you’re a restaurant owner or retailer, have you ever been frustrated by a customer who asks a lot of questions or rejects products because you use nuts or another allergen? Having safe food options can make a world of difference for customers, and it doesn’t have to be a burden for retailers. If customers and businesses understand each other’s needs, allergy-friendly options and establishments can be win-win.

As the owner of a nut-free bakery with gluten-free and vegan options, Yael Krigman will discuss best practices and lessons learned for businesses and customers alike. Baked by Yael’s transition to being completely nut-free and accommodating other dietary needs was eye-opening and far easier than you might expect. In this session, we will explore some of the ways customers and food establishments can work together to create a safe dining experience for everyone.

Speakers

Yael Krigman

Baked by Yael

Yael Krigman is a recovering attorney and owner of Baked by Yael. She is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and the George Washington University Law School. Yael began baking to relieve stress during law school. She ultimately left her job as an international trade attorney... Read More →

Sunday November 3, 2019 11:10am - 12:00pm EST
Riverview 1&2

Adult Attendees, Registered Dietitian

11:10am EST

Making the Case for School Stock Epinephrine Auto-Injectors (EAIs): Where Are We Now?*

The role and need for of stock-epinephrine (EAI) in the school setting includes treating first-time event emergencies; backup protection for students who cannot or do not maintain a devise at school, and/or for potential emergency use during times of supply shortage. Undesignated stock EAIs could be of particular aid to vulnerable populations, who lack food allergy diagnosis. But what is the current state of stock epinephrine, and how do we encourage more schools to begin implementing it?

Speakers

Cathy Owens, RN, M.Ed, NCSN, ERSN

Cathy is a credentialed school nurse and has been the Coordinator of Health Services for Murrieta Valley Unified School District (a school district of approximately 23,000 students in Southern California). She received her bachelor's degree from Loma Linda and her master's degree... Read More →

Abigail Tarr Cooke, BSN, RN

Abigail Tarr Cooke BSN, RN, RDH is a graduate from the University of New Mexico College of Nursing. She is nursing research enthusiast, a Sigma Theta Tau International member, a Board Certified Allergist employee, and mom of food-allergic children who has a special interest in allergy... Read More →

Sunday November 3, 2019 11:10am - 12:00pm EST
Azalea 3

Adult Attendees, Registered Dietitian

11:10am EST

Preparing for a Safe Freshman Experience

Is the transition to college stressing you out? Beth Winthrop, FARE College Program collaborator and retired Sodexo clinical nutrition manager, will guide families through the steps to a safe college experience. Beth has both the passion and experience to help families manage the steps to a safe college experience: college selection, pre-planning with dining, understanding signage, menus, and labeling; requesting accommodations, roommates, resident advisors, sports teams, social events, snacking, and the status of stock epinephrine on college campuses.

Speakers

Beth Winthrop, MS, RD

Sodexo

Beth Winthrop received her BS in nutrition from Cornell University and completed a combined Master's degree and dietetic internship at Tufts University and the Frances Stern Nutrition Center in Boston. Beth had a long career as a clinical nutrition manager and dietetic internship... Read More →

Sunday November 3, 2019 11:10am - 12:00pm EST
Baltimore 5

Teen & Young Adult

11:10am EST

Awkward! Navigating Social Situations Smoothly & Safely: An Interactive Session

While the teenage years bring newfound freedom, they also bring challenging social scenarios when it comes to food allergies. In this session, we will role-play several awkward situations common to teens with food allergies, ranging from ordering in a restaurant with friends to going on a first date. Teens will then brainstorm several ways to handle each of these situations safely and smoothly, with the opportunity to practice these strategies and share with the group. The goal of this session is to equip teens with an arsenal of calm and creative strategies to employ in everyday life. As an added bonus, this session is sure to be LOL-worthy!

Speakers

Melissa Engel

Sunday November 3, 2019 11:10am - 12:00pm EST
Baltimore 3&4

Teen Attendees

11:10am EST

How We Cure Food Allergies for Just 19 Cents

Spoiler alert: We can’t. But the federal government spends just 19 cents per person on food allergy research. To develop treatments and find a cure, we need D.C. policymakers to do more. During this session, we’ll show you how FARE will get this done and introduce you to Teen Advisory Group members who are already leading the way.

Speakers

Jon Hoffman

Director, Advocacy and External Affairs, Food Allergy Research & Education

Sunday November 3, 2019 11:10am - 12:00pm EST
Riverview 1&2

Teen Attendees

12:10pm EST

Closing Session

Sunday November 3, 2019 12:10pm - 1:00pm EST
Riverview Ballroom

All Attendee