Denise Arrouet Bunning

Denise is an educator, support group leader, and advocate who works to improve the lives of children with and without food allergies. She became involved in food allergy advocacy after her two sons were diagnosed with life-threatening food allergies and Eosinophilic Esophagitis, a digestive disorder related to food allergies. Denise co-founded and currently manages MOCHA (Mothers of Children Having Allergies) – a support group and website dedicated to sharing information and helping food allergic families and individuals. Previously, she served on the committee organized by the State Board of Education and Illinois Department of Public Health to author Guidelines for Managing Life-Threatening Food Allergies in Illinois Schools, which served as the basis for school board policies state-wide. Denise also co-authored The Food Allergy Experience with Dr. Ruchi Gupta. Denise is a frequent guest speaker discussing the food allergy parent's changing role from protecting to preparing their children to transition safely between K-12, college, and beyond. She is passionate about inspiring, motivating, and educating.