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College Life For New Celiac

gZimmiZ

By gZimmiZ
in Gluten-Free Restaurants

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gZimmiZ Rookie
gZimmiZ
Posted

I just wanted to share a wonderful experience I had a few days ago as an encouragement to those of you who are the 'support staff' to your celiac family.

I phoned the private university where my child attends, with my students permission, and spoke to the cafeteria manager. I explained the new diagnoses and the gluten-free diet. The manager asked lots of questions. I explained that I would be happy to bring some food to the cafe freezer to help out. I was thrilled when she replied, "Isn't your student on a meal plan?" I said, "Yes". She said, "Well, I am happy to have you bring food and I will store it for you, but it is my responsibility to provide safe meals! " I almost cried.

God is so Good!

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byuiemily Newbie
byuiemily
Posted

That's wonderful! I am in my sophomore year of college, and even though I don't use the cafeteria, it's still music to my ears to hear that universities and specifically those in charge of the cafeterias are really stepping up to the plate as far as catering to the students' needs go. I remember just 2 years ago when I was first diagnosed, my high school was less then excited about the possibility of having to accomodate for me, and I heard other such stories, but I truly believe that things are starting to make a turn for the better and that is a great miracle. Worrying about whether or not the college you want to attend will work with you to meet your health needs in the last thing a person should have to agonize over. Again, wonderful to hear that the cafeteria manager at your child's Uni. is being so helpful :)

Guest ~wAvE WeT sAnD~
Guest ~wAvE WeT sAnD~
Posted

gZimmiZ,

I am impressed! I'm a Junior who will have a confirmed diagnosis in one week. I attend a small Liberal Arts College that makes accommodations for those with dietary restrictions. I'm not quite sure what this entails, but it's amazing that the college is letting your daughter have a reasonable amount of control over what is being put in her body. I hope the Food Services director and I can work out a similar agreement.

I was wondering, what in particular does this cafeteria do to prevent Gluten cross-contamination? It is my biggest concern.

Thank you for listening,

gZimmiZ Rookie
gZimmiZ
Posted
  • Author

Cross Contamination!!! I understand this can be a big nightmare! She told me she would plan on putting aside meat prior to seasoning and bake in a separate pan and would do the same for pasta. On that topic, our conversation stopped there. We are going to make an appointment and talk on campus. We are reading and making notes out of Danna Korns book, Wheat Free Worry Free, about concerns and needs, a separate toaster etc. She did ask where she could go to buy gluten-free bread!

Does anyone have any ideas for us? We are so new at this I appreciate any ideas. Thanks!

angel-jd1 Community Regular
angel-jd1
Posted

A while back I had done some research into college food service programs. You can find that info here: Open Original Shared Link

Hope it helps someone.

-Jessica :rolleyes:

  • 3 weeks later...
starlitgrl27 Rookie
starlitgrl27
Posted

I'm starting my sophomore year of college and i was just last week told i was gluten-intolerant. the private university i attend uses Sodexho food services which i really popular on campuses across the country. I just placed a phone call to the dining hall services on my campus and they're setting an appointment for the first week back for me with a dietician! I was so happy considering my recent change in diet has been a kick in the butt. They said that they would be more than happy to help. I figure since Sodexho and my school has been so good to me that maybe other schools might do it too.

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