Event to offer Nutrition Strategies and Local Resources for Those Affected

Chanute, Kansas – KSU Southwind Extension and Neosho Memorial are hosting a free community program on Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS) on December 11, 2025, starting at 5:00 p.m. at the SEK Impact Center, 1500 W. 7th Street, Chanute. 

The program, “Managing Alpha-Gal Syndrome: Nutrition Strategies for Better Quality of Life,” will feature keynote speaker Dr. Priscilla Brenes, Nutrition and Wellness specialist with K-State Research and Extension. Also presenting will be Beckie Manahan, PA-C, NMRMC Physician Assistant. Light, Alpha-Gal-friendly appetizers prepared by Cosby’s Elevated Eats will be available for attendees.

“If you have Alpha-Gal or support someone who does, you know how confusion and overwhelming it can be,” Dr. Brenes explains. “We invited community members to join us to discuss nutrition strategies to avoid AGS symptoms and to learn about resources available locally,” Brenes said.

Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS) is an allergy to red meat and mammalian-derived products that is becoming increasingly common across Kansas, particularly in rural areas. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, AGS can develop after a tick bite – most often from the Lone Start tick. Although the tick is widespread across southern, eastern, and central states, fewer than 10% of those bitten go on to develop the allergy.

The evening will kick off with Beckie Manahan, PA-C presenting. With the unique perspective of both patient and provider, Manahan – diagnosed with Alpha-Gal in 2023 – will share her journey with the condition and how she has inadvertently become an invaluable professional resource a passionate advocate.

“Alpha-Gal is difficult to diagnose because it can mimic the symptoms of many other conditions. People often seek care for allergies (including hives/itching), heartburn, chest tightness, stomach issues, headaches and more,” Manahan explains.

“It is important to learn more so that you can work with your medical team to develop an accurate diagnosis. Sadly, because the symptoms are vague and mimic other conditions, Alpha-Gal is not diagnosed quickly,” she added.

Dr. Brenes notes that awareness of AGS varies across Kansas. In late 2024, she surveyed extension agents statewide to assess familiarity with the syndrome. Agents in western Kansas reported limited awareness, while those in eastern Kansas know of several affected individuals.

“The majority of those who responded indicated that is not enough information available regarding AGS,” Brenes said. “They want to know more about the topic so that they can educate the people in their communities.” 

The event begins at 5:00 p.m. at the SEK Impact Center, 1500 W. 7th Street, Chanute, KS. 

For more information, please contact Sandy Haggard, Nutrition, Food Safety, and Health Agent at K-State Extension, Southwind District, SJHaggard@ksu.edu or 620-365-2242.