I’m 16 years old and I was somewhat recently diagnosed with Celiac disease (only 5 years ago). This is my story.

I’m not here to tell you that having Celiac has been easy, because it simply hasn’t. There have been times when I’ve found myself eating on my own in the corner, wishing I could just leave. There have been times where I’ve knowingly glutened myself, and no I’m not proud of it (PLEASE don’t do this to yourself!). But there have also been times when the transition has been remarkably easy. When I can confidently go up to my server and ask for what I need without hesitating or without the weird looks I usually get.

Now, getting to this point takes a lot of time and conscious practice. I recommend trying Celiac Aware & Beyond Celiac’s resources, as they are excellent guides on how to inform restaurants if you condition as well as support other patients in a similar position. One tip I wish I would’ve known when I was first diagnosed is that it’s okay to ask questions. In fact, you should think of it like asking questions will help make the servers and cooks more aware of your condition, which will in turn help other people with dietary restrictions down the line.

But above all, remember that adapting to any new life change, not just Celiac disease, takes time and will be difficult. I remember when I was first diagnosed, I refused to go out for dinner with my family/friends or even on vacations because it was too embarrassing to let everyone know that I had special dietary restrictions like that. But with time, it’s my hope that you will become more comfortable with the process, much like me.

— Ron, Toronto, Canada