Continuing on my frequent visits to the emergency room as a child, about two years ago I found myself in one once more. I'd eaten shrimp bisque soup for lunch and to cut a long story short, I developed hives within 10 minutes and within 20 minutes my breathing became constricted.
When I phoned the doctor she told me to go to the hospital straight away. Anyway, after being told that I could never eat shelfish again due to the newly developed allergy, I was also informed that my new best friend would be my 'EPI' pen. A very large looking needle thing that I have to carry around with me in case I accidently eat shellfish.
Often it's annoying because it's heavy and bulky, but quite rightly David tells me off if I don't carry it with me.
On Wednesday night, Ella, my Text 100 friend from NYC (she's a Brit and lived in Japan - cool chick that she is...) and her boyfriend Will were staying. We went out to a Mexican restaurant and with a few others, we ordered appetizers. Since several people ordered I sat back and waited for the feast to arrive. I tucked in to what I thought were chicken tacos, but in the dark light (and after 2 margaritas) I couldn't tell. Immediately I know it was shrimp. After not tasting this once favorite food in two years I knew. I blurted out, "Is this shrimp?" Panic set in. I quickly spat the food into my napkin just as a small amount of something slid down my throat. I've never felt food go down so much as that small piece did. I prayed it was just taco...
I looked at David realizing the potential danger, wondering if a hospital visit would ruin the night.
He looked at me and I fought back a few tears. You see, my shrimp allergy and my hospital visit is a great story to tell during dinner, but I try to forget the reality. On Wednesday, the immense panic made me aware of the reality.
Thankfully, under the watchful eye of David, I didn't develop hives, so after 15 minutes I knew I was safe. Even so, I was glad I carried my EPI pen that night!
My advice is to take some boullion with you in your kit bag, like I did for weeks in the UK. Saved me from lettin' me insides get a bollockin' from the food, wot?
Margaritas or no margaritas, you need to be more careful! Stick with the taco salad!
http://www.theoffside.com/world-football/soon-youll-be-able-to-trade-hooligan-action-figures.html
Adios
Posted by: Meat Pies and Rashers | September 05, 2006 at 06:40 PM