Red Sneaker Day Spotlight: Allergic Emma
Red Sneaker Days provides a “day” when everyone wears their red sneakers/shoes (or anything red) and participates together to raise awareness for the dangers of food allergies. The goal is not only to increase education and awareness to the communities of those suffering with food allergies, but just as importantly, to educate those who are not directly affected by them.
Emma Melin (Allergic Emma) is a Red Sneaker Ambassador and amazing food allergy advocate! Eight year old Emma is on a quest to raise awareness about the life-threatening dangers of food allergies, and to inspire those who have food allergies to live life to its fullest. Having experienced five anaphylactic reactions since 18-months of age, it would be easy for Emma to isolate herself from the world and live in a "bubble". Instead, she’s empowered to thrive and enjoy the things other children her age do – like participate in class parties, play sports, visit with friends, and even travel. Make no mistake – it isn't always easy. In fact, living with food allergies is tough. But as Emma says...she’s tougher!
Emma hosted a Red Sneaker Day at her school on May 19th so she could teach her classmates and teachers about her food allergies. Emma’s entire school was gifted RSFO wristbands and everyone wore their red or red sneakers in support! In addition to hosting her very own food allergy awareness assembly, Emma was given three proclamations from her local cities in support of food allergy awareness! Her Mayor even came to her school to present her with one of her proclamations in support of her Red Sneaker Day! We are so proud of Emma and her advocacy!
On International Red Sneakers Day, Emma hosted her 2nd Annual Food Allergy Meetup! This event was a chance for the food allergy community to connect and support one another and hear from an expert panel. The panel included Chef Keith Norman, singer/songwriter Kendell Renee who is anaphylactic to 95% of foods, and RSFO Ambassador and Food Allergen Detective Dog, Harley. So many food allergy families were able to connect with each other and learn new resources to help keep their family safe.
