Air Canada, WestJet come through for teen flying with allergiesRunway Girl

As a dancer with Canadian ballet company Ballet Jorgen, I am increasingly booking gigs that require some travel. My mother, RGN operations manager Becca Alkema, usually accompanies me, as I am only 14 years old. 

But on a recent trip between Toronto and Saskatoon — without my mom in tow — I had to be my own advocate when imparting my needs to the airlines. I flew Air Canada Rouge on the outbound and WestJet for the return.

I am allergic to many things but I risk anaphylaxis when I come into contact with eggs, peanuts, tree nuts and mangos. 

Twenty-four hours prior to departure my mom sent an email to alert Air Canada about my allergies. The carrier responded within an hour, adding a buffer zone and pre-boarding requirement…