A COLLEGE student died just days after graduating, after eating a midnight snack that contained peanuts.
Timothy Myles Howard, 22, had a severe anaphylactic reaction on May 24 that led to his death, said his mother on social media.
His parents, Patty and Tim Howard, said the tragedy happened after Timothy ate a snack that was contaminated with peanuts.
Tim Howard told NBC affiliate WJAR-TV that their son woke them up and said he couldn’t breathe.
“At that point, it unfolded very quickly,” the father said.
Timothy’s parents used his EpiPen and called 911, however, it was too late to save him.
“The reaction was too far gone,” said Timothy.
The boy’s mother, Patty Howard, shared a Facebook post announcing her son’s death along with several photos, including from his graduation.
“It is with heavy hearts we share the loss of our son Timmy to a severe anaphylactic reaction to peanuts,” read the post.
“We recently celebrated his graduation from college, with so much ahead of him. Our hearts are shattered as we find ourselves part of a community none wish to join.”
Patty revealed that Timothy’s frat brothers started a fundraiser to spread education on food allergy awareness and advancing anaphylaxis research.
At the time of writing, the fundraiser has reached its goal of $25,000 and now has more than $27,600 from over 620 donors.
“Timmy’s Dad, Mom, and sister Julia want to express deep gratitude for the overwhelming love and support during this challenging time,” stated an update from the fundraiser.
“We truly appreciate your donations to the Food Allergy Research and Education organization. Let’s work together to raise awareness about food allergies and promote advancements in research and treatment for anaphylaxis.”
The page also encouraged others to consider becoming an organ donor, which Timothy was.
“Keep spreading kindness, love to others and keep dancing!”
Symptoms of anaphylaxis
- Skin reactions include hives, itching, and flushed or pale skin.
- Low blood pressure (hypotension).
- Constriction of the airway, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
- Swollen tongue or throat.
- Weak and rapid pulse.
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- Dizziness or fainting.
- Psychological symptoms, such as a feeling of impending doom.
Source: US Department of Agriculture
The page described Timothy as a “bright and compassionate” graduate from the University of Rhode Island and a Phi Kappa Psi brother.
“Timmy was just beginning what promised to be a remarkable journey in life. He was driven, kind, and deeply loved by family, friends, and everyone who had the joy of knowing him,” the page read.
“He never judged, never interrupted, and always made you feel like what you had to say mattered.
“Timmy had a way of making everyone around him feel safe and seen.”
The parents didn’t name the snack that their son ate, telling WJAR-TV t that they weren’t sure how many times he’s had it in the past, for it was his first time.
“We just want to bring awareness to make sure everyone reads labels and really looks at the ingredients,” Patty told the outlet.
Timothy’s sister Julia, who also has food allergies, echoed her mom: ” For companies to realize that putting ‘may contain’ sometimes, knowing what’s in your food, and the people that are eating it as consumers, knowing what’s on the label, I think is really important.”
