Dear Asthma,

I found out about you when I was in 2nd grade. I had a cold and went in for a checkup because it did not seem to be getting any better. The doctor walked in and listened to me breathing, and he then informed my grandma and I that he thought I had asthma. He then recommended us to see a lung doctor.

A week or so later I was at my apportionment they had me do a breathing test. Of course, I failed it because of all things that I could suck at; it's breathing. I then had to do an allergy test to find out what exactly I am allergic to. A lot of pricks later down my back and a few tears later, I found out what I am allergic to.

I am allergic to hickory, maple, a particular type of grass, cats, dogs...etc. These are things I am going to have to worry about for the rest of my life.

They prescribed me medicine that I needed to take every day. These allergies don't seem like a much of a problem, but then we all realized that we have a dog and two cats at home. We couldn't give away our only dog or the cats we have had for years. If I touched the dog, I would break out in hives, and I would have trouble breathing and the same for the acts.

We had to make new rules. No animals allowed in my room. I have a special couch that I get to sit on that animals are not allowed to sit on. I couldn't pet the animals as much as I did before, no more cuddling with them. If I did touch them, I would immediately have to wash my hands.

When I went to college for a couple of months and came back home, I got so used not to be surrounded by animals that when I got back, I had to do my inhaler. I had to take allergy medications. Even with all that I sneeze all the time and I have trouble breathing.

The most important question I have when I go visit my friends is if they have a cat or a dog. It lets me know if I should bring my inhaler and if I should take my allergy medication.

Although I am allergic to maple, sometimes I will risk it. I love maple syrup. Whenever I have pancakes or waffle, I have to add some maple syrup on them. I love cats and dogs, and I have volunteered at an animal shelter.

It was so much fun, but I felt awful through it all. My eyes were watery, and it looked like I was crying through it all. Although my asthma has provided me with a lot of excuses, I will not let it be an excuse for me. I still ran a mile in high school just like everyone else.

(I kind of hate you asthma because I can't cuddle with my dog)

Love,

Raven