Hi there!

I completely know how you feel!! I work as a flight attendant and there's been times where I've gotten so panicked and scared because of my emet I just felt I had to quit. Like you I totally love my job---I couldn't ever think about doing anything else even though occasionally I'm confronted with rough situations. Still, I push on because I will not let my phobia get in the way of doing what I truly love. Plus, most of my flights go off without a hitch, so I'm not face to face with v* all the time.

It really sounds like you adore your job, and it would be a shame to have you give it up. It also sounds like your boss is pretty understanding, but I don't know if I'd tell her about your phobia just yet. Go with the asthma thing. I've never told anyone I work with about it (except for a boozy night in Myrtle Beach!) and would honestly not want to tell anyone. Not because I'm ashamed, but because I will get to a point where I'm okay with v*. It'll take time but I'll get there, and I'm sure you will too.

By the way, I think you are very courageous and wonderful to do what you do! And it really sounds like you really love to work with children--I give you so much credit for that!!

Good luck and welcome!!