Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Is it possible the Cubs have been missing "the key" to great ball playing all along? Because, last night--the first game in Cubs history to offer a peanut-friendly seating accommodation for allergic fans--the Cubs killed the Pirates 14 to 2. This is what the other parents and I were joking about last night but mainly we were thrilled to be in the (Peanut Allergy) "Friendly Confines" for an amazing night of baseball, family and food allergy advocacy.
Every allergic kid in the Batter's Eye Skybox was given an amazing goody bag that featured, among other things, the photo you see above with the child's name on the famous Wrigley Field marquee. We also were treated to a special night honoring legendary Cubs' player Andre Dawson, aka "The Hawk" and so we all got free Cubs caps honoring him.
My daughter was apprehensive before we were led into the sky box--peanuts were literally being sold everywhere but imagine our surprise when we arrived near the bleachers to see signs that read "No Peanut Products Tonight" and such. The entire area near our suite was peanut-free, which meant that we could buy from the concession stands without our usual fear of cross-contamination. There was a wonderful nurse from Children's Memorial Hospital on hand as well as a couple of prominent allergists from Children's who hung out to make sure things went smoothly.
I've never felt safer in any venue before--literally the Cubs thought of everything! I don't know who was happier or more excited--the kids attending the game (many who were there for the first time)--or the proud parents, grandparents and family members who could enjoy baseball with their loved ones. It was truly a magical evening.
As someone who had contacted the Cubs about peanut-free sections at games in the past, I was so honored to be one of the first people the Cubs' fan ambassadors called about this historic game. If this isn't a positive example of food allergy advocacy, I don't know what is. Sometimes advocacy works and when it does, it feels great.