It was Thanksgiving in Maine, and 11-year-old Oakley Debbs was on vacation with his family. Oakley, a top student from West Palm Beach, Florida, was also a star athlete, even though he had asthma and food allergies.
For the holiday, his family had ordered a Thanksgiving basket full of treats. Oakley chose to have a piece of cake from the basket.
Tragically, something went wrong after he ate the cake, leading to a heartbreaking event. His family and friends are now working to raise awareness and prevent similar incidents from happening to others.
Despite his asthma and nut allergies, Oakley loved playing tennis, football, soccer, and even running marathons. His family remembers him as a “brave and strong warrior” who fought hard against his conditions.
On November 24, Oakley Debbs, an 11-year-old, had a piece of pound cake that was left on the kitchen table where his family was staying in Maine. His mom, Merrill Debbs, said Oakley always checked labels to avoid nuts and didn’t see any warnings.
“He thought it was just a piece of cake,” his dad, Robert Debbs, explained. “But after he ate it, he mentioned it might have nuts.” Merrill agreed the cake had a nutty taste, which turned out to be walnut.
Merrill gave Oakley Benadryl, as they usually did for allergic reactions, and he said he felt fine. At that point, he only had a small hive on his lip.
But soon after, Oakley complained of chest pain and started vomiting. His parents called 911, but by the time the ambulance arrived ten minutes later, Oakley was blue. His airway had closed, and his heart had stopped.
I’m writing on behalf of Robert J. Debbs, Merrill Debbs, and Oakley’s twin sister, Olivia. It is with a heavy heart that I…
Posted by Tyler Debbs Squire on Saturday, November 26, 2016
The family struggled to accept Oakley’s tragic death and understand why he couldn’t be saved.
“I don’t think my beautiful, amazing son should have passed away,” Merrill said.
In response, the family started the Red Sneaker Foundation to teach people about anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. They chose red sneakers as a symbol because Oakley loved them, hoping to increase awareness about food allergies.
Posted by Red Sneakers For Oakley on Thursday, December 1, 2016
Experts recommend using epinephrine for even mild allergic reactions. Merrill said, “Oakley was a rock star, a good kid. I always knew he’d make a difference—just not after he passed away. That’s a big part of why we’re doing this.”
Please share this story to help raise awareness about food allergies and prevent future tragedies.
Never-before-seen pictures of Princess Diana
Individuals globally embraced Princess Diana, a cherished icon of her time. Join us on a nostalgic journey as we delve into unique and captivating photographs that unveil a more profound understanding of her extraordinary life. These are the instances that will undoubtedly bring joy and warmth to your heart.
Captured in this image is Diana during a skiing escapade to Austria accompanied by her children, Harry and William. The snapshot was taken in the aftermath of Harry’s ninth birthday celebration. The charm of the young prince is undeniable, and the entire family exudes a captivating allure!
Frequently hailed as “The People’s Princess”, Diana actively engaged in various humanitarian endeavors, serving as a beacon of kindness and love. Here, we witness Princess Diana during her visit to an orthopedic workshop in Luanda, Angola, where she compassionately interacts with victims of landmines.
The treasury of Diana’s enchanting photographs seems boundless. This particular snapshot captures a moment from 1971 when she was enjoying a vacation in Itchenor, West Sussex. Additionally, a charming image was taken outside Diana’s residence at Coleherne Court, London, before her engagement to Charles.
In this candid moment, Harry playfully sticks out his tongue to the crowd gathered around Buckingham Palace, eliciting a surprised reaction from Diana. The spontaneous display of youthful exuberance is a delightful glimpse into their dynamic.
The enduring appeal of the royal apparel brand Barbour is exemplified in Princess Diana’s fondness for it. Her choice to wear a Barbour-style waxed cotton jacket during her 1985 journey to the Outer Hebrides in Scotland showcased her impeccable taste. The renowned royal photographer Jayne Fincher, known for capturing some of Princess Diana’s most iconic images, accompanied the royal couple on their official engagements to the Outer Hebrides. Despite the challenging weather conditions of wind and rain, Diana looked remarkably happy in the images from the trip. Jayne Fincher, reflecting on the experience, noted Diana’s uncommonly joyful appearance, even in adverse weather, emphasizing the contrast with her own disheveled state.
The photograph capturing a moment from Diana’s last summer alive portrays her alongside boyfriend Dodi Al Fayed on a boat in St. Tropez, France, joyfully jumping into the water. It serves as a poignant reminder of Diana’s enduring legacy as a truly great and loving human being.
The photograph capturing a moment from Diana’s last summer alive portrays her alongside boyfriend Dodi Al Fayed on a boat in St. Tropez, France, joyfully jumping into the water. It serves as a poignant reminder of Diana’s enduring legacy as a truly great and loving human being.
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