Having never shared her writing before, publishing this book was scary for Emily A. Reed. As her son, George, would say, to be brave, you must be scared first. Not only does George love superheroes, but before he could speak, Emily and her husband, John, were teaching him to use his voice to advocate for himself. At six months old, George was diagnosed with severe food allergies. It would be life-threatening if he were to eat nuts or eggs. (Including eggs baked into things like cakes or cookies).Emily and John quickly learned the reality of living with severe food allergies as they toted George around to gatherings with family and friends. Pre-diagnosis, they never considered how food is central to most events and celebrations. There were times they considered declining invitations to avoid the stress. As understanding settled in, Emily began to worry George would develop the same anxieties growing in her. Emily felt strongly that keeping George healthy included his mental health and sense of belonging. She wanted George to be able to take part and enjoy each day with confidence and without fear.Emily wrote Big, Brave Voice to teach George about self-advocacy before he could speak. They hoped that "Does this have eggs or nuts in it?" would be among his first complete sentences. George is five now and embraces gatherings and holidays with confidence. He can join in safely because he knows how to ask about ingredients to avoid the wrong food.Emily hopes Big, Brave Voice will help other kids learn how to protect themselves, even at the youngest ages, while enjoying life to the fullest. Emily has settled in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, where she grew up. She lives with her husband, John, their two children, George and Marley, and their dog, Bucky.
