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.
Toddler hears favorite song plays on, begins to dance the jive, but his last move cracks whole crowd
Music, along with dancing is the best medicine that helps you relieve stress and stay happy and active. Everybody likes to dance from time to time, no matter the age. But there are some people who rock at doing it so much that they rule the dance floor and make everybody feel good about it.
William Stokkebroe, 2-year-old stunned a crows when he dashed into the middle of a dancefloor, excited to show everyone what he’s got.
His parents, Kristina and Peter Stokkebroe and the dancers at Studie43 must have caught his attention overtime as he couldn’t wait to show them all what he can do.
Elvis Presley’s Jailhouse Rock was playing at that moment, and the little enthusiastic boy couldn’t help himself but busting some serious moves. the impressed crowd burst into a round of cheer. He even gives a very proud bow at the end of his dance.
William has certainly a bright future and we can’t wait to see him dancing again since he is so brave to step in front of an entire crowd like he just did.
I’m sure they will like it. Don’t forget to let us know what you thought of the article in the comment section below
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