Renowned medical physicians, professionals, and non-profit organizations discuss allergies, asthma and Celiac Disease at Expo

Chicago, IL -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/08/2009 -- THRIVE Allergy Expo offers the highest caliber of allergy and Celiac speakers at the Healthy Living Forum and Marketplace Forum. Both Forums boast talented speakers known for their expertise and dynamic presentations on April 18th & 19th 2009. Speaking sessions for both Forums will begin promptly at 9:30AM and end at 4:30PM. The Healthy Living Forum is dedicated to discussing lifestyle allergy, asthma and Celiac solutions, where as the Marketplace Forum provides a stage opportunity for sponsors and exhibitors to discuss allergy-specific and gluten-free products and services.

When THRIVE Allergy Expo planned its special features and events, we immediately recognized the need and want to provide renowned speakers to discuss various health related topics in an educational setting for the allergic, asthmatic and Celiac communities. On their behalf, THRIVE reached out to prestigious organizations and renowned medical physicians to address our attendees' specific health concerns and issues. THRIVE received such an overwhelming response to participate and speak, we had to make special accommodations and create two speaking stages, the Healthy Living Forum and Marketplace Forum.

At the Healthy Living Forum, the Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America, American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, American Lung Association, Children's Memorial Hospital: Food Allergy Study, MedicAlert, University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center and the Gluten Intolerance Group will speak on both days of event. Discussion topics and presentations include asthma, eczema, food allergies, Celiac Disease, and precautions and avoidance tips to increase allergy safety.

At the Marketplace Forum on April 18th & 19th speakers include Twinject, the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immnology, AllergyZone, Gluten Intolerance Group, Lisa Cooks Allergen Free, Merchant du Vin, and noted authors Jules Shepard and Kim Koeller. Anaphylaxis, indoor air quality, evolution of gluten-free beer, how to keep a gluten-free kitchen and how to safely eat out with food allergies and Celiac Disease are just a sample of topics discussed at this Forum. The Marketplace Forum also provides the special back drop for kids to enjoy and sing-a-long to Kyle Dine's "Nutty", music about food allergies.

No matter what type of allergy our attendees suffer from or if they have Celiac Disease, there are multiple speaking sessions specific to their health issues and concerns. Our Forums' goal is to provide our attendees with education, solutions and resources they can use to live a more normal, and healthy life. The Healthy Living Forum and Marketplace Forum schedules and in-depth descriptions of discussion topics are available at http://www.thriveallerexpo.com If you are interested in scheduling an interview with one of our speakers, please contact us directly at media@thriveallergyexpo.com and we will provide you with press credentials.

THRIVE Allergy & Gluten-free Expo on April 18-19, 2009 in Chicago's McCormick Place. THRIVE tickets are on sale at http://www.thriveallergyexpo.com. Adults are $10 or $15 for a 2-day pass, children under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult. This is an opportunity to help families learn about these conditions from credible sources, yet not spend a fortune to do it. In order to further lend support to the not for profit effort, Thrive will donate back to participating non-profits the full face value of tickets purchased by their members.

Thrive Allergy & Gluten-free Expo is presented by sponsor Sciele Pharma Inc., a Shionogi company, the marketers of allergy-related products. Please visit Sciele's booth, # 811.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Chicago, IL -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/07/2009 -- Adults and children with symptoms such as wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath can find out if they are at risk for asthma through free asthma screenings 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, and 12 noon- 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 19, at the Thrive Allergy Expo at McCormick Place.

Allergists, who are asthma specialists, will conduct the screenings as part of the Nationwide Asthma Screening Program. Sponsored by the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), the program has screened an estimated 115,000 people and referred more than half for further diagnosis.

"Many people don't realize their breathing problems might be caused by asthma. They simply put up with their symptoms which may include a cough at night, colds that constantly go to the chest, shortness of breath during exercise or full-blown asthma attacks," said allergist James Sublett, M.D. "Asthma is a serious disease and the screening program gives patients a chance to meet with an allergist who can help them identify the source of their suffering and direct them to the next steps for treatment."

Allergists, working with community physicians and allied health professionals, conduct the free asthma screenings at shopping malls, civic centers, health fairs and other accessible locations throughout the country. In addition to helping find those at risk for asthma, the screenings also offer people already diagnosed with asthma the chance to see if their condition is under control. "Thrive is pleased to be able to offer the free asthma screenings as part of the Expo," said Eva Prokop, Thrive spokesperson. "We know that anyone with asthma should be able to feel good, be active all day and sleep well at night. No one should accept anything less. If you think you might have asthma or just want to make sure you have good control of the disease, come to the Expo, get a free screening and find relief."

During a screening, adults complete a 20-question Life Quality (LQ) Test developed by ACAAI for the program. Children under age 15 take a special test called the Kids' Asthma Check that allows them to answer questions themselves about any breathing problems. Another version of the Check is available for parents of children up to 8 years of age to complete on their child's behalf.

Participants also take a lung function test that involves blowing into a tube, then meet with an allergist to determine if they should seek a thorough examination and diagnosis.

In addition to the screening, the ACAAI will offer information at the Expo on new tools available to help eliminate suffering for the millions of Americans with allergies and asthma. The tools are featured on the Web site http://www.AllergyAndAsthmaRelief.org and include a simple online test to gauge whether patients need help with their allergy and asthma symptoms and a personalized plan on how to achieve relief. The Web site also offers information about allergies, asthma and other allergic diseases; an e-newsletter; podcasts and videos on allergies and asthma; and an allergist locator. Personal stories of patients who worked with an allergist to control their allergies and asthma also are available online.

Be sure to stop by our booth 209 at Thrive Allergy & Gluten-free Expo on April 18-19, 2009 in Chicago's McCormick Place. Thrive Tickets are on sale at http://www.thriveallergyexpo.com. Adults are $10 or $15 for a 2-day pass, children under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult. This is an opportunity to help families learn about these conditions from credible sources, yet not spend a fortune to do it. In order to further lend support to the not for profit effort, Thrive will donate back to participating non-profits the full face value of tickets purchased by their members.

Thrive Allergy & Gluten-free Expo is presented by sponsor Sciele Pharma Inc., a Shionogi company, the marketers of allergy-related products. Please visit Sciele's booth, # 811.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

A non-profit organization specializing in service alert dogs for anaphylactic allergies

Chicago, IL -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/03/2009 -- Like most eight year olds, Riley Mers enjoyed going to the park to play. Unfortunately, one day a peanut shell slipped into her sandal leaving a permanent scar. Riley Mers is so severely allergic to peanuts that she can break out with hives or experience breathing difficulties by simply inhaling peanut oils/residue that cannot be detected by the human nose. Sherry Mers, Riley's mother , constantly had to bring her daughter to the emergency room for medical attention. Riley has already figured out that she doesn't enjoy hospitals or the gowns they provide her when she visits. Thanks to Rock'O, the allergy peanut sniffing dog, Riley's hospitals visits have stopped completely!

Rock'O is a Portuguese water dog that has been specifically trained to find peanuts so Riley never comes in contact with them. She now lives a life without fear of going into anaphylactic shock. If Rock'O could help Riley, Sherry thought dogs with Rock'O's training could help other children with severe food allergies. She started a non-profit organization called Angel Service Dogs, providing alert dogs for anaphylactic allergies, and they will be offering their services at THRIVE!

Rock'O is already a star! Thus far he's appeared on NBC Nightly News, ABC Action News, KXRM Fox 21, FOX News and Denver's ABC 7. And Rocko'O and Angel Service Dogs are featured in People's Magazine this April. THRIVE has made extra special accommodations for Rock'O, because he travels with an entourage of unbelievably and undeniably cute puppies. The puppies require a lot of space to roam and play, but Rock'O needs a stage to perform. Throughout the two-day Expo, Rock'O will demonstrate how he can easily detect well-hidden peanuts. Children will have the opportunity watch Rock'O do his thing and meet the puppies that have been pre-selected for the Angel Service Dog BPtraining program.

At the Expo, the Angel Service Dogs are looking for qualified families to adopt these cute puppies for six months. It's necessary the puppies be given a normal and family-friendly environment for their first six months. They will then go on to be trained and loved by children whose lives will be better by their incredible life saving skills. All who have participated said the experience was well worth the momentary heartache of departure.

"I am delighted that our Expo is the stage and background where children with food allergies have the opportunity to improve their quality of life because of the Angel Service Dogs support, presence and participation, said Dennis Callahan," EVP for THRIVE. "I know the children will be distracted by how cute and soft the puppies are, but parents will fully understand that these service alert dogs could save their child's life. This is what THRIVE Allergy Expo is all about!"

Meet the Angel Service Dogs at booth #703 and watch Rock'O and his entourage at booth #802 at Thrive Allergy & Gluten-free Expo on April 18-19, 2009 in Chicago's McCormick Place. Thrive Tickets are on sale at http://www.thriveallergyexpo.com. Adults are $10 or $15 for a 2-day pass, children under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult. This is an opportunity to help families learn about these conditions from credible sources, yet not spend a fortune to do it. In order to further lend support to the not for profit effort, Thrive will donate back to participating non-profits the full face value of tickets purchased by their members.

Thrive Allergy & Gluten-free Expo is presented by sponsor Sciele Pharma Inc., a Shionogi company, the marketers of allergy-related products. Please visit Sciele's booth, # 811.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Thrive Allergy & Gluten-free Expo invites Michele Fellows to join advisory board to share her experiences with parents of severely allergic children.

Chicago, IL -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/04/2009 -- Alexis was only ten months old when doctors informed Michele and her husband Jim of the severity of their daughter's allergies. Even though they nearly lost her, Michele and Jim were sent home from the hospital without any information on how to deal with the severity of the situation, where to go for information, support, or even safe products. Out of dire necessity, Michele slowly developed recipes that were safe for her family to consume.

"Michele's is a story we hear too often," says Eva Prokop, VP of communications for Thrive. "We invited Michele to join Thrive's Advisory Board as a parent-at-large because she exemplifies the frustrations that brought Thrive Expo into existence. We wanted to swing open the doors and invite all people with allergy, asthma or gluten-afflictions to gather in one place, see and hear about the products and services available to them, and gain practical and valuable education from our speakers about how to improve their lives and keep their families safe."

Michele, owner and founder of Sweet Alexis, has two children with multiple food allergies and environmental allergies, including asthma. Alexis, the company's namesake, has those afflictions at life-threatening levels. "My motives for becoming active in this area are seen in the faces of my children. "

At the suggestion of friends, Michele launches Sweet Alexis, a company passionate about providing safe foods. "I know that through good food - safe food-, we can create awareness, spread information and support each other so every member of the family feels cared for and nourished both physically and emotionally."

You can speak with Michele in person at Thrive Allergy & Gluten-free Expo on April 18-19, 2009 in Chicago's McCormick Place. Thrive Tickets are on sale at http://www.thriveallergyexpo.com. Adults are $10 or $15 for a 2-day pass, children under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult. This is an opportunity to help families learn about these conditions from credible sources, yet not spend a fortune to do it. In order to further lend support to the not for profit effort, Thrive will donate back to participating non-profits the full face value of tickets purchased by their members.

Thrive Allergy & Gluten-free Expo is presented by sponsor Sciele Pharma Inc., a Shionogi company, the marketers of allergy-related products. Please visit Sciele's booth, # 811.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Leading gluten-free baking expert offers Thrive attendees demonstrations and interactive exhibit space, April 18-19 in Chicago’s McCormick Place.

Chicago, IL -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/03/2009 -- THRIVE Expo, the only consumer show aimed at providing education, products and services all under one roof to the rapidly expanding allergic and gluten-free communities, announces today that they've tapped Jules Shepard to offer attendees baking and cooking demonstrations and other interactive presentations using free-from recipes.

"Two things people worry about most with altered recipes are taste and consistency," says Eva Prokop, VP of communications for Thrive. "Jules knows that without helping consumers understand how to tackle these issues when cooking at home, too many individuals don't enjoy the type of meals that are very doable. We're very excited to have her expertise at the show and her availability to interact with the audience and answer their questions."

Shepard, a noted celiac, author and inventor of a patent-pending allergy- and gluten-free all purpose flour will be hosting two days' worth of demonstrations during the Thrive Allergy Expo this spring. "I get countless requests for bread recipes and baking tips, so I'm going to do several bread baking demonstrations," Ms. Shepard says. "I see my role as demystifying gluten- and allergy-free bread baking, as well as baking in general," she continues. "Thrive has recognized this need from their attendees and has dedicated a large space to enable me to show people first-hand how simple it is to make delicious breads, muffins, pizza crusts, cookies, soft pretzels – just about anything – if you use the right flour."

Jules' expertise and popularity as a presenter are augmented by the fact that she has been creating uncompromised gluten-free foods as a celiac herself, for ten years. Her recently released book for the newly diagnosed celiac is very timely as well. Entitled, The First Year: Celiac Disease and Living Gluten Free, this week-by-week guide to easing the transition to eating gluten-free was released in December. Her first book, a popular gluten-free cookbook entitled Nearly Normal Cooking for Gluten Free Eating, continues to be among the most popular gluten-free cookbooks.

"Adding Jules to our well-rounded group of presenters for this year's Thrive Allergy Expo," comments Prokop, "will offer attendees insight on the physiological aspects of allergy issues, food labeling standards, research and the like, and Jules will add a valuable and practical aspect. Her message is very encouraging, very empowering and we value our partnership."

"I really respect the approach Thrive is taking in producing this show," adds Jules. "I share their educational, empowering and thorough attitude. It's vital for those of us with food allergies and autoimmune diseases such as celiac."

A detailed schedule for the baking demonstration and interactive presentation space have yet to be finalized, but Prokop states they will be posted on the Thrive website by late March. Jules comments, "There will be something for everyone…kids, families, bakers, non-bakers. We plan to make it a lively and informative space, to be sure."

Thrive Tickets are on sale at http://www.thriveallergyexpo.com. Adults are $10 or $15 for a 2-day pass, children under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult. This is an opportunity to help families learn about these conditions from credible sources, yet not spend a fortune to do it. In order to further lend support to the not for profit effort, Thrive will donate back to participating non-profits the full face value of tickets purchased by their members.

Thrive Allergy & Gluten-free Expo is presented by sponsor Sciele Pharma Inc., a Shionogi company, the marketers of allergy-related products. Please visit Sciele's booth, # 811.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Borders embraces its role as a vital, contributing member of the allergic community and reaches out to connect with THRIVE attendees.

Chicago, IL -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/24/2009 -- Borders, one of the largest bookstore chains worldwide with over 1,100 stores, is joining THRIVE Allergy Expo as the official event bookseller providing the latest titles about allergies to our attendees. "With the public's increased focus on healthy living, THRIVE Allergy Expo is a great chance for Borders to provide topical books to help our customers further enhance their knowledge and enrich their lives," says Wanda Fisher, Senior Marketing Manager for Borders.

"When THRIVE was just an idea, we thought long and hard as to what products, services and amenities would be beneficial for the allergic community. At the forefront of our list was to have an esteemed book retailer at THRIVE because we recognize that books are an integral part of people learning more about their health issues and concerns especially when newly diagnosed," says Tara Howard, Director of Marketing for THRIVE. "Borders understands this need and looks forward to fulfill this role for our attendees. We couldn't be more enthused to have Borders as our official event bookseller and show their support to all allergy sufferers."

Borders will be open for business on THRIVE's show floor on Saturday and Sunday from 11AM to 4PM, April 18-19, 2009. Currently, we are pooling our resources to coordinate authors for book signings and will have a schedule posted on our website at http://www.thriveallergyexpo.com in the following week.

For more information about Borders, visit http://www.borders.com and be sure to visit them at THRIVE Allergy Expo.

Tickets are on sale at http://www.thriveallergyexpo.com. Adults are $10 or $15 for a 2-day pass, children under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult. This is an opportunity to help families learn about these conditions from credible sources, yet not spend a fortune to do it. In order to further lend support to the not for profit effort, Thrive will donate back to participating non-profits the full face value of tickets purchased by their members. Tickets may be limited, so please reserve your attendance early.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Skin care plays an important role in the lives of individuals afflicted with allergies and quality products make a difference when seeking relief and results.

Chicago, IL -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/23/2009 -- Eucerin, one of the leading dermatologist-recommended skin care brands in the world is supporting Thrive Allergy Expo to increase the support and information about skin and all manner of skin-related afflictions. "Allergies tend to make the skin prone to irritation and more sensitive as a result," says Jennifer Van Aken of Eucerin "and we want to be present at Thrive to meet people face to face, offer suggestions, and provide useful information and samples they can take away to improve their lives." Since Eucerin has a long-standing expertise in treating dry, sensitive, and compromised skin, sponsoring the THRIVE Allergy Expo is the perfect fit. This is a great opportunity for Eucerin to reach both children and adults who have these skin care concerns and to offer them possible skin care solutions.

"Our event is meant to bring together all organizations that contribute to these health issues and we couldn't be happier that Eucerin showed their enthusiasm and support in this way," states Eva Prokop, VP of Communications for Thrive. "We're in a new era of corporate cooperation and outreach, so every company that extends themselves to share their resources sends a strong message to consumers about their level of commitment. Eucerin is one of those companies that leapt at the chance to show people how they could help. Whether skin allergies, or even psoriasis and eczema which cause dry, sensitive skin, our attendees are in for a real treat at Eucerin's booth this spring."

The effectiveness and skin tolerance of Eucerin products has been documented in clinical studies and is the basis for a strong relationship with medical and skin care professionals. Eucerin is one of the many internationally successful brands within the Beiersdorf AG portfolio. Headquartered in Hamburg, Germany Beiersdorf is a leading international company of branded consumer products for skin and beauty care with 125 years of experience in research and development and strong international presence.

Tickets are on sale at http://www.thriveallergyexpo.com. Adults are $10 or $15 for a 2-day pass, children under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult. This is an opportunity to help families learn about these conditions from credible sources, yet not spend a fortune to do it. In order to further lend support to the not for profit effort, Thrive will donate back to participating non-profits the full face value of tickets purchased by their members. Tickets may be limited, so please reserve your attendance early.

For more information on Eucerin, visit http://www.eucerinUS.com and be sure to visit them at Thrive Allergy Expo in Booth # 606.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Thrive Allergy & Gluten-free Expo is a consumer event with a mission to educate and simplify the lives of those individuals and families coping with allergies and food intolerances

Chicago, IL -- (ReleaseWire) -- 01/29/2009 -- It's unusual to be sure, but it's a new era of shared responsibility and putting people first. This April 18-19 at Chicago's McCormick Place, people with allergic and gluten-related conditions can get it all. Along with presenting sponsor Twinject and a host of exhibitors, Thrive Allergy and Gluten-free Expo is welcoming all non-profit organizations with missions associated to these health issues to come and educate people about their resources and goals. Twinject, Allegra, University of Chicago's Celiac Disease Center, American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, Medic Alert Foundation, Inflammatory Skin Disease Institute, The American Lung Association, The National Psoriasis Foundation, The National Eczema Association and the Gluten Intolerance Group are among the participants and speakers in this effort to disseminate information and educate the public.

E-Ticketing has gone live but because of the educational sessions, tickets may be limited. Individuals may purchase tickets to secure admission at www.thriveallergyexpo.com. Adults are $10 or $15 for a 2-day pass, children under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult. This is an opportunity to help families learn about these conditions from credible sources, yet not spend a fortune to do it. In order to further lend support to the not for profit effort, Thrive will donate back to participating non-profits the full face value of tickets purchased by their members.

For more information please call 866-617-EXPO or log onto the website at http://www.thriveallergyexpo.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

With allergies on a strong rise, Sciele steps up as a corporate citizen to partner with consumers on allergy education, products and services

Chicago, IL -- (ReleaseWire) -- 01/22/2009 -- Sciele Pharma Inc., a Shionogi Company, and Thrive announce that Twinject, the only epinephrine auto-injector that offers a back-up dose in a single device, will be headlining as Presenting Sponsor for Thrive Allergy and Gluten-free Expo being held at Chicago's McCormick Place April 18-19, 2009. Thrive is the only consumer show aimed at providing education, products and services all under one roof to the rapidly expanding allergic and gluten-free communities. Individuals who have severe allergies in particular may experience an anaphylactic reaction that requires epinephrine. In fact, up to one out of every five patients may experience an anaphylactic reaction that requires a second dose. Twinject's unique design provides a back-up dose of epinephrine to guard against the unpredictability of anaphylaxis. "When we reached out to pharmaceutical companies, Sciele was the first to recognize the need for more direct-to-consumer education and support. Their corporate citizenry has been amazing and we look forward to their participation along with our other partners and exhibitors," states Eva Prokop, Vice President of Communications for Thrive.

Aside from the products and services being presented, there are several speakers covering topics such as understanding how Celiac Disease affects your system, current food allergy labeling standards, food allergy and gluten-free cooking demonstrations and how to properly use your Twinject auto-injector, among many more. These speakers relate to the frustrations audience members face every day while trying to lead normal lives. "We at Sciele feel that providing educational resources on treatment options can help people better cope with the burden of living with severe allergies , " says Larry Dillaha M.D., Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Sciele. "With proper education on Twinject, it is our goal to boost confidence and alleviate anxiety for people at risk for anaphylaxis" Both the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology and the University of Chicago's Center on Celiac Disease sit on the advisory board. These well respected organizations and their members are part of Thrive's effort to provide the highest quality and broadest range of interest to the event. "We are all joining forces, "says Prokop, "to provide the various allergy and gluten intolerant communities first hand access and knowledge about how to improve their day to day living. "

Twinject is a registered trademark of Sciele Pharma, Inc., a Shionogi Company.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

With allergies on a strong rise, Thrive Allergy & Gluten-free Expo launches a consumer focused show that brings professional education and information to all afflicted patients for $10 or less

Chicago, IL -- (ReleaseWire) -- 01/14/2009 -- Allergies are one of the dominant health topics in schools and among parents. The days of sharing peanut butter sandwiches are over, ushering in an era where cafeteria menus are under scrutiny and kids are learning to give themselves injections and carry inhalers. Thrive Allergy and Gluten-free Expo is setting up the only North American show to offer education, samples and general information to all allergy afflicted individuals and parents, crossing all socio-economic barriers.

Medical speakers, pharmaceutical sponsors and a welcoming environment for all non-profits which are concerned with these issues make this expo the place to bridge the gap between patients and service providers. Twinject, Allegra, University of Chicago's Celiac Disease Center and the American college of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology are among the participants in this effort to disseminate information and educate the public.

Tickets are on sale at http://www.thriveallergyexpo.com. Adults are $10 or $15 for a 2-day pass, children under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult. This is an opportunity to help families learn about these conditions from credible sources, yet not spend a fortune to do it. In order to further lend support to the not for profit effort, Thrive will donate back to participating non-profits the full face value of tickets purchased by their members.

For more information please call or log onto the website.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm