The Card My Son Keeps in his Med Bag in case of Anaphylaxis

When my son is away from home, whether it’s around the corner, across the country, or across the globe, one of my top concerns is how he’ll communicate his severe food allergies in an emergency.

With anaphylaxis, we know minutes matter. I needed a way to make sure that if he ever had a reaction, first responders would immediately know that epinephrine must be given without delay. And, that when dispatched, to ensure they would arrive with epinephrine. (It’s not standard for epinephrine to be carried on all ambulances – it varies greatly from area to area, and around the globe.)

This concern was most apparent when my son was traveling with his high school last year to Italy. Their itinerary allowed students to have free time to explore in various cities. So, my mind wasn’t comfortable with my son’s ability to communicate his need for emergency administration of epinephrine – especially in another language.

That’s where the Select Wisely emergency card comes in.

Select Wisely creates wallet-sized cards that clearly communicate medical needs in multiple languages. And best of all?

You can customize to meet your needs with the exact wording you want.

My son’s Select Wisely emergency card

It’s useful not only for travel to non-English speaking countries but also for being away from home anywhere domestically. The back can be printed in a foreign language, so your message is clear even if you can’t say it. And the English side can be used any and every day locally — my son now keeps it in his med bag all the time.

Knowing he has this tool in his med bag gives both of us peace of mind. He can show the card to anyone, and they’ll instantly understand the seriousness of his situation.

Check out Select Wisely here.

For any family managing severe food allergies (or any medical needs), carrying a Select Wisely emergency card is a small step that can make a big difference. It’s lightweight, durable, and potentially lifesaving. When every second counts, having your needs clearly communicated, no matter where you are, can be the key to getting the right help, right away.

Note: my son also carries an Equal Eats chef card, which eases communication with restaurant staff in terms of ordering safe food. This Select Wisely emergency card is for communicating needs in an anaphylactic emergency. Together they’re two great tools to clearly communicate your needs.