Evan Bailyn - A Gluten-Free Suprise

My 24th birthday was approaching and boy was I nervous.  I couldn’t believe how old I was getting and I wasn’t gonna let this birthday slip by. 

For years, I had missed birthday after birthday, too sick to participate.  The diagnosis: Celiac Disease, an autoimmune disease and intolerance to gluten, a protein found in wheat flour.

“No birthday cake for me this year,” I thought. 

Stuck in a rut of negativity, I continued, “I’m getting old… I haven’t seen my best friend since she moved...I don’t feel well...”

Next thing I knew it was May 9th, I was tipsy, and in the flicking candlelight, a bunch of waiters were singing “Happy Birthday to you.”

“A cake!  I can’t believe there’s cake.” I hadn’t eaten cake in months.

“24! I can’t believe I’m 24!”

“Cheryl!!!!!!! Cher!!!!!!” called one of the waitresses called.

I knew that voice.  But who was it?? 

After about a minute of utter confusion, the intoxicated, space cadet (me) , realized that I was staring at my best friend Shahla who was posing as a waitress.

I later learned that Evan, who happens to be the bestest boyfriend in the world, decided that his birthday present would have to bring me love and positivity.  He planned weeks in advance to fly Shahla from Toronto to New York to surprise me. 

I will never forget what a wonderful gift he gave me.  He had a gluten-free cake specially made for me.  He brought my best friend to me.  He brought me love. 

Now everytime this story is read, my love will flow his way…