Today is National Celiac Awareness Day here in the United States. It’s a day to spread awareness of the disease at full force, and a day to recognize the efforts (and Birhday) of the man who first accounted the link between CD symptoms and gluten: Dr. Samuel Gee. Happy 174th birthday Dr. Samuel Gee!
I have to agree with many of the faces of Celiac Disease out there in respect to the fact that spreading awareness shouldn’t be limited to just one day. However, a day does help get the facts out there, but you don’t have to just stop when the clock strikes Midnight. So, with that being said here are some lasting resources to help you spread awareness today and everyday:
Celiac Awareness Day – Every Day (A great article by Jules Shepard)
18 Important Facts About Celiac Disease (Gluten Free Gigi shared important facts everyone should know about CD)
Celtic Celiac’s Gluten Free Advocacy Tools:
Self Advocacy for your Personal Life
Self Advocacy for your Shopping and Dining Needs
Self Advocacy in the Political and Legislative Arena
National Foundation for Celiac Awareness (NFCA)’s Symptoms Checklist (Send to anyone you think might be at risk of CD- They can fill it out, print, and bring to their doctor)
Share, Pin, Tweet, Post, or otherwise get information out there about CD and it’s symptoms. One helpful resource is this descriptive infographic on the symptoms of the disease.
The most important key I have found to spreading awareness is sharing of information and food in an informal setting with friends, family, and strangers. It’s simple: share what you know, what you buy, and what you cook! Be open to answering questions about your disease, your symptoms, and how you stay healthy. Throw a potluck, make something for a bbq, bring something to a party! This is the best source of spreading awareness out there, and you’ll be surprised by what people remember! Perhaps you’ll even spark a diagnosis, and that’s one less person in the dark.
In the next few days I’ll be posting a giveaway, hosted by Annie’s, to celebrate National Celiac Awarness Day. Keep your eyes peeled for the details, and for your chance to win a large box of about 10-15 gluten free goodies!