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.
Matt Damon’s Daughters Make Rare Red Carpet Appearance, People Notice the Same Thing
Matt Damon made a rare red carpet appearance with his family, and the spotlight was on his kids. The actor, known for keeping his personal life private, surprised fans as he stepped out with his wife, Luciana Barroso, and their daughters: Alexia, Isabella, Gia, and Stella.
Matt Damon’s family attended his movie premiere.
Matt Damon turned the premiere of his latest film, The Instigators, into a memorable family affair. The 53-year-old actor walked the red carpet with his wife, Luciana Damon, and their daughters: Isabella, 18, Gia, 16, Stella, 13, and Alexia, 25, Luciana’s daughter from a previous relationship.
This rare public appearance with his entire family drew plenty of attention. “We had a lot of family here tonight,” Damon remarked. “They normally don’t show up for these things, but they all showed up tonight.”
Fans were in shock.
Fans were shocked as they learned about Matt Damon’s family during the premiere of his latest film. Social media buzzed with comments like, “He has 4 daughters?” and “Didn’t know he had that many kids.” Many were surprised by the revelation, with reactions ranging from “FOUR DAUGHTERS???? No idea he had 4!” to remarks on their resemblance to their mother, Luciana Damon.
Some fans also pointed out the strong familial traits, noting, “The Argentina genes are present! Beautiful combination and beautiful family!” The surprise and admiration were palpable, as fans marveled at Damon’s beautiful and close-knit family.
Céline Dion recently made a rare appearance with her twin sons, and fans couldn’t stop buzzing about one intriguing detail. As the iconic singer graced the event with Nelson and Eddy, attendees were quick to notice the same thing about the twin’s appearance that had everyone talking.
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