Dr. Patel continued, voice clear. “You have one of the most severe cases of multiple food protein intolerance syndrome I’ve seen, combined with several life-threatening allergies.”
My mom sank into a chair like her knees gave up. “That can’t be right,” she whispered. “She was fine as a child.”
“FPIES and severe allergies can develop at any age,” Dr. Patel said, not unkind, but firm. “Based on what Olivia described and what we’re seeing, her symptoms began in her teens. The fact that this wasn’t investigated earlier is concerning.”
Dad shifted, uncomfortable. “We thought she was just… particular about food.”
Dr. Patel’s eyebrows lifted. “These test results show severe reactions to shellfish, dairy, and nuts, among other proteins. This is not being particular. These reactions can be fatal.”
The word fatal hung in the air like smoke.
I watched my family’s faces as the truth landed. I’d imagined this moment for years—someone in authority finally saying I wasn’t making it up. I thought I’d feel victory.
Instead, I felt tired. Like my body had spent years screaming and only now had someone decided to listen because it screamed loud enough to nearly stop.