It’s a difficult conversation to have for sure. One of two things could happen. They understand or they don’t. Because it isn’t something that happens to them. They love foods and spices. Perhaps that candle smells so good everyone should enjoy it.
The fact remains that after we have talked with them and explained what happens and some will be very interested and others will not.
We love our families we want to enjoy our holidays with them. However when we go it’s over whelming with all the smells and foods we are not able to eat.
I’ve lost 98% of my family members because they don’t believe or won’t give some consideration to my allergies.
The best we can do is explain. We are not able to change their mind. They must take that responsibility
Just do your best. If they choose not to respect your allergies then I guess text or phone calls are the next best thing.
I truly am sorry for anyone who has this issue. Ultimately it is your family’s choice and yours.You can bring your own food. That’s a choice. However if it’s fragrant smells stay away.
I wish luck.

How devastating an allergy is and what affect it actually has on the body

Shame? What shame? You should never feel guilty, you didn't ask for allergies....

The shame of being the one that dictates where people eat out at... And all you have is like.. 5 options to go to... The shame of wanting to try a new restaurant but can't work through the anxiety to go..

I carry two epi-pens all the time. I also carry Benadryl . I prefer using Benadryl but I always show the epi-pen to people and tell them that I like to breathe and onions and onion cousins stop me from breathing. Most of my family and friends understand , the ones that do not we avoid.