Meet Caroline Cray, a 25-year-old who has gained massive attention on TikTok for her incredible journey of living with severe food allergies. Diagnosed with mast cell activation disorder (MCAS) during her freshman year at the College of the Holy Cross, Caroline’s day-to-day life is anything but ordinary.
“It was tough at first. While my peers were enjoying typical college experiences, I felt like a stranger in my own body,” Caroline reflects. She began college as a Division 1 athlete, expecting the best years of her life, only to face overwhelming challenges.
Caroline’s diet is now limited to only oatmeal and hypoallergenic baby formula, but she manages to lead a fulfilling life. Her viral TikTok content highlights how she navigates social situations like dining out, explaining her meticulous approach when ordering food or drinks.
Caroline’s allergy journey began at 18, as she struggled with allergies to nuts, seafood, and more. However, everything changed when a campus ice cream sandwich led to an anaphylactic shock, thrusting her into a whirlwind of hospital visits and medical confusion.
After plenty of ups and downs, she was diagnosed with MCAS, which makes her body react to an array of substances as if they were allergens. This often comes with a cocktail of symptoms and the need for careful monitoring of food and environment.
“Finding the right healthcare support has been crucial,” says Caroline, who faced five hospitalizations her first year. After seeing a specialist, she initially found some relief but faced setbacks due to an accidental exposure. Eventually, hypoallergenic formula became her lifeline when she could barely tolerate anything else.
While her food restrictions are severe, Caroline’s vibrant spirit shines through each TikTok she posts. One particularly popular video shows her explaining to a restaurant server her unique dining situation, proudly bringing her own oat waffles and formula syrup.
“I’ve never faced resistance regarding my needs. I just make sure to tip well and avoid any cross-contamination,” she says. However, her allergic reactions go beyond food. Airborne allergens, such as pet dander, mean she hasn’t flown in years and has to be cautious in public places.
Caroline also navigates the bar scene by drinking only certain bottled waters, opting to drink straight from the bottle to minimize contamination risk. Her TikTok channel has curated a community of support, connecting with followers who share similar challenges.
Through her ups and downs, Caroline has found love. She met her boyfriend, who is incredibly understanding of her situation, adapting his lifestyle to accommodate her allergies. “He’s amazing—he doesn’t eat anything I’m allergic to for 24 hours before we kiss,” she shares with a smile.
Caroline’s story is not just about managing a medical condition; it’s about resilience and gratitude. “Once I learned to shift my mindset from ‘Why me?’ to embracing my circumstances, my outlook changed,” she reveals.
Today, she works as a healthcare recruiter while continuing to inspire others through social media. Her goal is to raise awareness and provide a sense of community for those living with MCAS.
Commenters on her TikTok often express their appreciation for her candidness. “I have MCAS too! It’s a crazy life, but I feel somewhat included because of you!” noted one follower.
Through sharing her daily experiences, Caroline is not only surviving but thriving in a world that often feels isolating.