Hannah Glass, a 19-year-old freshman at Maranatha Baptist University in Wisconsin, had always been careful because of her severe peanut allergy. Sadly, her life ended after eating a homemade brownie that contained roasted peanut flour, a hidden ingredient that her friend did not realize posed a danger. The brownie was made by a women’s group on campus and intended for those with gluten intolerance, using peanut flour as a substitute for wheat flour.
Hannah took only two bites before feeling something was wrong. Her reaction was prompt and severe, with vomiting and hives appearing immediately. Her family rushed to her side, administering Benadryl and her EpiPen. However, the allergic reaction worsened when she lay on her side, causing her right lung to collapse and leading to difficulty breathing. She lost consciousness partway down her bunk bed ladder, and emergency medical services struggled to revive her.
Rushed to the hospital, Hannah suffered severe brain swelling and seizures, leaving her with critical and irreversible brain damage. Despite efforts by doctors, she passed away a few days later. Before she died, an emotional “Honor Walk” was held, with about 300 people lining the hospital hallway to pay tribute as she was taken for organ donation. Her organs, donated by her family, have saved at least four lives.
Hannah’s family now shares her story and urges others with allergies to always be vigilant and to keep their medical supplies up to date. Hannah’s life and kindness left a lasting impact, and her tragic death is a powerful reminder of how sudden and dangerous allergic reactions can be.
