[Philmont] food allergy

 
In a message dated 8/28/2006 10:51:54 A.M. Mountain Daylight Time,
Gbeaglegolf@aol.com writes:

We have a scout who wants to attend Philmont next year on our trek. He has
severe food allergies. The #1 item he reacts to is wheat. In reviewing the
ingredients on the Philfood, wheat is in 99% of the meals. Has anyone
experienced this problem and how did you overcome it for a scout?
Thanks,
Garry Black
Troop 718
Dallas, TX

 
Hi Garry, and all those preparing for a Philmont trek:
 
The time to address food allergies or other special food requirements is
NOW. You would be amazed at the number of campers that show up at the Services
food window and expect Philmont to accommodate their food requirement ON THE
SPOT.
 
Philmont's Guidebook to Adventure states, "If an individual is allergic to
some food products or requires a special diet, suitable trail food must be
purchased at home and brought to Philmont. Lightweight, non-perishable, low
bulk foods are recommended for backpacking. Package each day's meals separately
and write the person's name and Expedition Number on each package. Upon
arrival at the ranch, give the food to your Ranger who will take it to
Logistics. Arrangements will be made to transport it to the appropriate backcountry
commissaries for your crew. There is no fee reduction for individuals who bri
ng their own food."
 
Now this may sound callous and hard, but can you imagine the variety of food
allergies and special requirements that may occur amongst the nearly 25,000
campers that will be going through Philmont next year? It would be
impossible to provide for all of them. Remember, the trail food ;is already packaged
by the time you get to Philmont. If I had a severe food allergy or special
food requirement, I would make sure I was covered, not just assume that
Philmont will take care of me.
 
Read the book(s) and do what it/they say. There is very little sympathy for
someone who shows up with special requirements who did not read and heed
what the book says. That is what the book is for, and it applies to things
other than just food - like age, weight, and medical requirements.
 
Interesting that some units try to sneak in underage youth or overweight
adults, OR don't think the rules really apply to them, or lie about medical
conditions. A Scout is Trustworthy, even if it means someone cannot attend
Philmont. Some of those lies caught up with some of the liers this summer.

 
 
James F. Van Hecke, Jr.
13619 Keesha Jo Ave. SE
Albuquerque, NM 87123
505 332-8807
_jvh2099@aol.com_ (mailto:jvh2099@aol.com)
 
Jim Van Hecke
Asst. Manager, Camping Services
Philmont Scout Ranch
2004/2005/2006
jvh2099@aol.com

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Received on Mon Aug 28 14:03:05 2006