FAIRFAX, Va. – April 19, 2004 – The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN) today announced the top winners of its 2004 Annual Poster Contest.   FAAN’s Seventh Annual Poster Contest attracted hundreds of submissions from American children who illustrated their personal stories of “How I take care of my food allergies.”  David Kimmel, Gladwyne, Pa., a third-grade student at Shipley received first place, in the 8 – 11 age category, for his artistic capability of drawing positive messages on the importance of reading food labels, eating safe snacks and carrying epinephrine with him.  Epinephrine, known to most kids as the epi-pen, is the drug of choice for treating a severe allergic reaction.

“The children’s poster drawings always reinforces that education, at a very early age, is extremely important in the life-long management of food allergies,” said Anne Muñoz-Furlong, CEO and founder of FAAN.  “With the assistance of parents and other adults, it is essential for food-allergic children to learn to carefully read food labels.  Strict avoidance of allergy-causing food is the only way to prevent a reaction.  Keeping kids safe and reaction-free is our ultimate goal.” 

FAAN, a patient advocacy group, estimates that 11 million people in the United States – roughly 1-in-25 Americans -- are now believed to be affected by one or more food allergies, a disease triggered by the ingestion or contact with certain foods that may cause life-threatening reactions, or anaphylaxis. Scientists now estimate that 1-in-20 children have a food allergy.  

Throughout this Awareness Week, FAAN is diligently working with its 26,000 members to spearhead food allergy education activities in localities nationwide, including the sharing of vital information about the disease and working with health care professionals, schools, companies, community groups, government leaders and others. David’s national award and poster will be on display in Shipley's Lower School during Food Allergy Awareness Week, May 9 – 15.  

April 2004