OIT isn’t just for kids

Hi, I’m Katie, and I’m an OIT grad just like you. But my story isn’t typical.

You see, I’ve lived most of my life without food allergies. I didn’t have to avoid peanuts at birthday parties or bring Epi pens to summer camp. But when I was 19, all that changed.

I began experiencing severe stomach pain every day like clockwork. What I at first believed was a stomach bug hung around for months. I was slowly forced to realize that I might have food allergies.

So, I hauled myself over to Bless You Allergy & Asthma to let my dad (did I mention Dr. Browne is my dad?!?!) test me for food allergies. Sure enough, I tested positive for cows milk and egg white allergies.

And so my world turned upside down.

Thankfully, my dad knew about OIT by that time and was helping many people achieve food freedom. So, as soon as my system calmed down enough, I started OIT. It was a long and sometimes frustrating process, but it was well worth it.

I know the pain of allergies, the process of OIT, and the triumph of graduation, so I wanted to pay it forward and help you. I created Ollie’s Gang to give OIT families friends they could turn to when the going got tough.

However, Ollie’s Gang is aimed at younger kids, so if you’re a teen like I was, then let me be your OIT BFF. I’ll share bits of my own story and encourage you to share yours. I can post it here to encourage others.

Together, we can conquer food allergies, one graduation at a time.