Sharing Stories - Tammy

I found a white spotted tick under my bra line, strap on my back. Not sure how long it was there, my husband removed it. 

Not sure how long afterward, but it was after the birth of my daughter March 2002.  Later I kept breaking out in horrible head to toe rashes, which made my skin feel like acid was poured all over me. Still had not put two and two together. 

I started keeping a food journal and noticed anytime I ate beef products, I would have this reaction 5-6 hours later. Pork would just make me hurt severely. (I have had RA since 1988) My first anaphylactic reaction occurred 4 hours after eating a hot ham and cheese sandwich. Ambulance ride and two epi shots later I realized I can no longer eat pork either. 

So in 2004 the allergy doctor who still was not familiar with this rare food allergy, told me to avoid beef and pork.  I am an RN, so over the years I would check all ingredients in anything I consumed. 

In 2009 my Rheumatologist wanted to try my on the new med Remicaid Infusion. I still had no name for allergy, but knew I could not do anything with mammal products in it. Called pharmacist and he reassured me no mammal product was in the infusion. WRONG! I went into anaphylactic reaction within an hour. Was made from mouse embryos or something. 

So 10 weeks later we attempted the Orencia infusions. I had the same questions as before and was once again told no mammal. Within 30 min of this infusion went into full anaphylactic shock, required hospital visit. After the 2nd severe reaction, I researched the internet for hours to find that Humira is the only human synthesized Biologic RA meds. Had an reaction to several other meds before this. 

Finally in 2013, found the article about Alpha Gal allergy. I finally had a name for my rare food allergy. 

I now read all ingredients, when I go out to eat, I have the cook make my food in a clean pan and emphasize my allergy. Have had no reactions since 2009. I am very diligent about reading and inquiring what is in all parts of my meal.  Carry two epi pens, just in case.