Some humans develop trust problems – in relationships, finances, with technology, mechanics or in animals. A partner has cheated, an accountant has stolen money or a dog bit them when they were younger. Personally these sorts of feelings and experiences have been minimal in my life, except for a fleeting relationship with a violent-when-drinking-male, or having troubles with a horse that didn’t want to jump.
But, today I admit I have developed some trust issues…
I recently visited one of my favourite eateries for breakfast that will remain unnamed. They know me well, they know my orders are always pretty similar as I have been eating there for about three years. I ordered poached eggs on gluten free, no butter, with avocado and bacon.
It looked amazing when it arrived, and it tasted even better.
In a way it was easier when gluten free bread was stale tasting and bland because at least you could tell the difference. Today so much trust is invested in the server.
About an hour after my meal the sharp pains began. I put it down to my muscles being sore from an epic boxing class that morning and maybe my Lee’s being a little tight as I have a fuller booty than I used to. However, the pain began to get stronger and more frequent. I started to wonder what was wrong with me because there is no way the café I went to would have served me gluten. The first time a café served me bread was almost two years ago and I have been so careful since then.
I left work early and as soon as I stepped outside I began to cry from the pain, the stabbing contractions that find me lost for breath and in tears at the end of every episode. The last one of those I experienced was at approx 11pm when I climbed into bed; my boyfriend held my hand and wiped away my tears.
The last time this happened the stabbing pains lasted around four days. I was lucky to get out of this pain only 24 hours after the consumption of food. Not before it stripped me of my energy and left me lethargic and thoughtless.
This episode left me to ponder these questions:
Should I develop trust issues with restaurants and cafés?
Are eateries not taking dietary requirements seriously because so many people choose to be gluten free?
Do people think I am crazy?
What if I was a hospital case – would I possibly be dead?
All the options we “special” people have these days are amazing. I have to admit it’s fantastic to be able to make baked goods, quiches, pies, meaningful salads and lunches. When I first found out of my intolerances I was so scared to go anywhere to eat but with great awareness has come great freedom, but also higher risk. I don’t choose to be gluten free – I was made this way and this intolerance is real.
