About us
Hello and welcome!
I'm Michelle, founder of Allergy PenPals and mum to two boys Bertie (almost 6) and Wilf (4).
Allergy PenPals was created in 2022 after my eldest son, Bertie was diagnosed with multiple food allergies including egg, peanut and tree nuts. As he prepared to start nursery, I found myself facing the same worries that many allergy parents experience — trusting others to keep your child safe, explaining allergies to new caregivers and navigating everyday situations that suddenly felt overwhelming.
I wanted to create products that were practical, eye-catching and child-friendly; products that could help keep children safe while also raising awareness of food allergies wherever they go.
Since launching Allergy PenPals, our family's allergy journey has continued to evolve. Bertie successfully completed the egg ladder and has now outgrown his egg allergy. He has also been undergoing Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) for the past two years helping to build tolerance to his allergens. More recently, he was diagnosed with Eosinophilic Oesophagitis (EoE), a chronic allergic condition affecting the oesophagus, which has brought new challenges and learning experiences for our family.
Along the way, I've shared our allergy journey on Instagram, building a wonderful community of allergy families who support, encourage and learn from one another. Through Allergy PenPals, I've had the opportunity to collaborate with a variety of allergy-focused brands, attend allergy events and shows, and help raise awareness of food allergies and related conditions.
As an allergy parent, I understand the anxiety, stress and responsibility that comes with managing allergies every day. My goal is to create products and resources that make life a little easier, help children feel confident and included, and give parents greater peace of mind.
Thank you for being part of our journey and supporting a small family business dedicated to helping children with allergies stay safe, confident and understood.
Michelle x
Our Mission
"To help children with allergies stay safe, included and confident, while giving parents greater peace of mind through practical products, education and awareness."