Candice Matthis and Debbie Nichols started blogging as Two Alpha Gals after they were diagnosed with alpha-gal syndrome in 2019. Since then, they’ve been sharing tips and tricks on navigating life while living with the condition they contracted from ticks that makes them allergic to mammal meat and mammal byproducts. The Gals host a popular podcast, In the Tall Grass, offer support for living with alpha-gal syndrome, including resource guides, workshops, and a Food Allergy Mentorship Program.

 

Seeing further need for education and support, Candice and Debbie launched the Alpha-Gal Foundation in 2024 with a mission to foster community, empower patients, and educate the world on AGS. 

 

With appearances in NBC News, The Today Show, NPR, The Atlantic, and many other national and international podcasts and publications, Candice and Debbie continue to raise awareness of what it’s like to live with alpha-gal syndrome without sacrificing joy. Both women live with their families in the New River Valley of Virginia where they happily practice tick bite prevention in order to enjoy the beautiful outdoors.