A new documentary film is set to shine a light on the pressing issue of food allergies, a condition that affects approximately 33 million individuals in the United States alone. Titled *May Contain: My Life*, the film aims to provide an immersive experience for viewers, capturing the relentless challenges faced by those living with food allergies. The film is produced by Just Like You Films and will premiere on 21 May, coinciding with Food Allergy Awareness Month.
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*May Contain: My Life* features notable performances from actor August Maturo, known for his role in *Girl Meets World*, and Tanner Hagen, who will portray Shaggy in the forthcoming Netflix series *Scooby-Doo: Origins*. The film employs a mix of dramatization and personal testimonies to highlight the risks and emotional burdens associated with food allergies. For instance, Hagen portrays a character who unintentionally exposes a friend with a severe peanut allergy to life-threatening consequences.
The film’s narrative is enhanced by insights from Dr. Ruchi Gupta, a leading expert in food allergies from Northwestern University, and author of *Food Without Fear*. Her expertise guides the story’s dramatizations, ensuring accuracy while effectively illustrating the scenarios encountered by individuals with allergies.
In a powerful narration by Pro Football Hall of Famer Jerome Bettis, the film shares real-life experiences from families who live under constant vigilance due to food allergies. Bettis, himself managing these allergies, articulates the strength and discipline required to navigate this challenging landscape. “I’m living proof that people with food allergies are not weak. My career was built on strength, and I bring that same discipline to managing my life with food allergies every day,” he stated.
The documentary carries a strong advocacy message aimed at urging viewers to understand the necessity of legislative changes to protect those affected by food allergies. Two individuals featured prominently in this aspect are Thomas Silvera and Dina Hawthorne, who are working tirelessly for a legal initiative known as Elijah’s Law. This legislation is named after their son, who tragically lost his life due to a severe allergic reaction at a childcare centre. The film captures their journey as they openly discuss their grief, the significant loss they have endured, and their commitment to safeguarding other families.
Hawthorne and Silvera’s advocacy intersects with the stories of other families who share similar experiences, emphasising the urgent need for better education and communication regarding food allergies. Alongside them is Executive Producer Mandi Kearns, who appears with her son Giles. Her son’s personal battle with food allergies motivated her to bring this enlightening project to the public eye.
The film is set to premiere in Kansas City and will subsequently be available in AMC Theatres from 22 May. By situating itself in a context that aligns with Food Allergy Awareness Month, *May Contain: My Life* aims not only to inspire awareness but also to encourage dialogue around a public health issue that is often overlooked.
This documentary is positioned not just as a film but as a call to action, aiming to foster understanding and ultimately enhance the safety of those living with food allergies. With its heartfelt narratives and expert contributions, *May Contain: My Life* is sure to resonate with audiences and provoke consideration of the real-life implications faced by millions each day.