It’s been eight years since 13-year-old Karanbir Cheema died after a classmate threw cheese that triggered a fatal allergic reaction. For his mother, Rina, the loss remains deeply painful, and she strives to raise awareness about allergies.
On June 28, 2017, what seemed like a harmless prank at a London school quickly turned tragic when Karanbir was hit by a piece of cheese. His severe allergies caused him to go into cardiac arrest hours later at Great Ormond Street Hospital.
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Despite efforts to save him, Karanbir never recovered. His EpiPen was expired, possibly diminishing the life-saving effect. The boy suffered post-cardiac arrest syndrome, worsening his condition.
Two weeks later, Rina made the heartbreaking choice to remove life support. She remembers Karanbir smiling quietly as the machines were switched off.
The 2019 inquest revealed that Karanbir had shown signs of anaphylaxis for several minutes before receiving adrenaline. Pediatric allergist Dr. Adam Fox stated the critical importance of immediate treatment during allergic shocks.
The boys involved testified without knowing Karanbir’s allergy severity. The coroner criticized their actions as “childish” but blamed the school for inadequate allergy education.
Rina remembers the courage of her son, who pleaded for help during his reaction. She urges schools and healthcare providers to take allergies seriously.
Karan’s father Amerjeet shared the family’s deep grief and hopes the tragedy leads to better awareness and prevention.
