Be Free For Me Blog

Tara Taft’s daughter, Erica, was diagnosed with celiac disease several years ago. Over these years, Tara and her whole family has made Erica’s diagnosis a family-affair. The outcome? A healthy and happy Erica, and the whole Taft family learning the true meaning of community and giving.

There were a lot of experiences I could relate to after reading this article that appeared in Thrive, Children Hospital of Boston’s Health & Science Blog.

One of these experiences is the sense of community with those with celiac disease or food allergies share. I have a saying, “Once a Celiac, Never a Stranger”. Seeing someone in the grocery store with Van’s Waffles, Glutino Pretzels & Bob’s Red Mill GF Flour in their carts or a fellow restaurant patron beaming happily at a gluten-free menu just begs me to start-up a conversation!

I have discovered a healthier and happier me; complete strangers that have become lifelong friends; the true appreciation of food, family and friend and most importantly, the sheer joy in sharing simple basic things (even hugs!)… all because of my diagnosis of celiac disease.

Tara’s article should remind us all that a positive outlook and attitude is contagious.

Yup… life is good.