Kristi Puszkar’s journey with celiac disease began in 2014, when she was diagnosed after not recovering from a concussion. Despite not having the tell-tale signs of the condition, Puszkar became an advocate for the disease and has been raising awareness about the autoimmune disorder ever since.
“I had these really bad headaches, so I went to a walk-in clinic where they ran a blood test and that’s how I found out I had celiac disease,” she said. “I was referred to a gastroenterologist, confirmed celiac, and had no idea what that meant.”
Around 350,000 Canadians, which is about one per cent of the population, have celiac disease, though many remain undiagnosed.
Celiac disease isn't an allergy. It's an often-hereditary autoimmune disorder where the body attacks itself.
This is a sickness where gluten (a protein in many foods) harms the small intestine. People with celiac disease must eat gluten-free food for their health.
Cross-contamination is also a concern for people with celiac disease. If a fryer, cutting board, knife, or spatula comes into contact with foods with gluten, they aren't safe. This means that people with celiac disease need to be careful when eating out or preparing food at home.
Puszkar, who now lives with the disease, has noticed a substantial rise in the price of gluten-free food this year.
“Because I am celiac and I have young children, we make sure to have a gluten-free house because if I get sick, the whole house goes down – I’m kind of the pillar of our house,” she said.
“We pay nearly $800 a month for groceries, which is kind of insane.”
May is Celiac Awareness Month, and Puszkar is passionate about spreading the word about the challenges of living with celiac disease, including maintaining a strict gluten-free diet.
Puszkar’s story sheds light on many individuals' struggles with celiac disease, including the high cost of gluten-free products and the lack of access to safe and affordable options.
“A lot of gluten-free food is a lot higher than the regular gluten-containing products, a loaf of bread for me is close to $10,” Puszkar said.
Although her journey has felt overwhelming at times, Puszkar found in the organization Celiac Calgary a lot of resources that helped her adapt and learn more about the disease.
“Celiac Calgary has a 101 class you can take as much as you want. You can ask some questions, they are really responsive,” Puszkar said.
During the month of May, Celiac Calgary will be hosting events throughout Airdrie to raise awareness about the disease, including a sampling day at M&M Food Market on May 13 from 12 to 4 p.m.
Puszkar’s advocacy for celiac disease awareness and access to safe gluten-free options highlights the importance of supporting those with autoimmune disorders.
Through her advocacy, Puszkar hopes to make a difference in the lives of those living with the disease and help improve access to safe and affordable gluten-free options for all.
Airdronians who suspect they may have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity are encouraged to talk to their doctor. People with celiac disease can lead healthy, normal lives with the right diagnosis and treatment.
