The Food Allergy Institute: A Dad’s Perspective

I wasn’t sure what to expect from the Food Allergy Institute (FAI). We had talked to two families who went through the program and loved it, but I remained skeptical. Why don't all hospitals or healthcare providers offer this treatment? Why isn’t the information widely shared, and why aren’t there more peer-reviewed studies on this? Despite these questions, the Institute’s 99% success rate convinced us it was worth trying. Ultimately, I just want Z to be able to safely enjoy eating out, have desserts, and not live with the constant worry of needing his epi-pen.

My wife attended the initial onboarding session (she writes about her experience here) and came home with her own skepticism, but we both felt ready for the potentially costly and lengthy four-year journey ahead. Some parts of the program confused me initially: Why stop peanuts if he already tolerates them? Why introduce dog and cat allergens orally when it might stress his immune system?

About six weeks later, it was my turn to accompany Z to his appointment. The night before, anxiety kept me awake. I worried about warnings regarding the skin patch, especially about allergens entering the bloodstream if scratched. Perhaps I feared another croup-like incident, but mainly, I felt anxious about the unknown journey my son faced.

I woke up after only three hours of sleep, prepared Z’s medications, and drove to Long Beach. Thankfully, the drive took only an hour and fifteen minutes instead of the expected ninety. Upon entering FAI, I immediately felt calmer. The facility was clean, the staff friendly, and Z seemed comfortable and excited—especially about getting a lollipop afterward. The nurse thoroughly explained the skin patch test, easing my concerns and preparing me in case of complications.

Fortunately, the patch test went smoothly. We gave Z some Zyrtec afterward, and he hardly noticed the patch throughout the day. He couldn't run, sweat, or get it wet, which meant more screen time than usual. Admittedly, I was too exhausted from my sleepless night to entertain him actively. By day’s end, his only complaint was minor tummy discomfort, which quickly passed. He slept soundly that night without any itching.

The next morning, we returned to remove the patch and conduct his first food challenge. The comfort and ease of the process reassured me again. Z’s room even had a friendly note waiting for him. The nurses were fantastic, carefully checking his vitals and removing the patch while Z enjoyed an episode of Bluey.

Meeting the doctor further boosted my confidence. Z’s allergies appeared less severe compared to other children, according to his reaction and blood tests, reducing our expected duration in the program from four years down to approximately two years (seven total visits, scheduled every three months). Also, the doctor decided not to introduce the pet allergy spray, resolving another of my concerns. Additionally, they immediately conducted a peanut food challenge—his highest allergy, despite his current tolerance—reassuring me further.

The most important takeaway, which other families shared with us before we started, is that this program is exceptionally thorough and trustworthy. The Institute’s depth of knowledge about food allergies is impressive, leaving me frustrated that our provider, Kaiser, is so far behind in this research area.

We scheduled our next appointment at FAI six weeks later, and I'm now fully confident they will keep Z safe, healthy, and ultimately free of his food allergies. I’m deeply grateful to the entire staff for their dedication and compassion.

My one remaining question is why this effective treatment isn't more widely known and accessible.

Note: The information provided in this post is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.