By NATALIE GALLENTI
MIHIRI Yeluri knows all too well the dangers faced by children who suffer with allergies and anaphylaxis.
That is why the Kurunjang mother decided to establish the Comfort Playgroup that is designed to accommodate children that have allergies and anaphylaxis, and their parents.
As an infant, Mihiri’s son Nathan, now three, endured extreme eczema but despite repeated visits to doctors and specialists was not diagnosed with an aversion to any food.
It wasn’t until he was 13 months old and dipped his hand into a jar of Nutella that his mother knew something was wrong.
All the signs of an anaphylactic episode were there and Mihiri immediately dialled Triple-zero.
Nathan was then diagnosed with anaphylaxis with allergic reactions to egg, tree nuts, kiwi fruit, dust mites and canines.
Since then Mihiri admits life has been difficult.
“As a parent I can’t be on the edge, I have to educate him,” she told Star.
“He has never been to playgroup because of the risks involved… but I’ve found that for children at that age they need to get involved with children other than their family and friends.”
After years of bringing her own food to parties and politely declining to attend many events for fear of Nathan touching or eating something he is allergic to, Mihiri applied for a community grant to found a playgroup that would offer a one-hour play session with a no food policy.
“It’s important that children with allergies still enjoy the company of others.”
The mother-of-two said the group would also provide a support network for parents who have to cope with the pressure of raising a child with allergies.
Comfort Playgroup will open its doors this Friday, 17 May, at Arnold’s Creek Community Centre, Melton, from 9.15am to 10.45pm.
The cost will be a gold coin donation at each session and Playgroup Victoria membership. Toy donations will also be accepted, but not items that include toxic and latex material. Anyone interested in attending or donating items should contact Mihiri Yeluri on 0469 217 905 or email comfortplaygroup@outlook.com.
