A college student died a few days after graduating after eating a late-night snack that contained peanuts.
The distraught mother of Timothy Myles Howard posted on social media that her 22-year-old son had died on May 24 after suffering a severe anaphylactic reaction.
Timothy Howard’s parents, Tim and Patty, claim that the tragedy happened when Timothy ate a snack contaminated with the allergy. The kind of snack was not specified.
He woke us up by saying he was having trouble breathing. It happened very fast after that, Tim Howard told NBC affiliate 10WJAR.
When Timothy’s parents gave him his EpiPen and dialed 911, it was too late.
His father remarked, “The reaction was too far gone.”
Patty announced her son’s passing on Facebook eight days after sharing family photos of his graduation from the University of Rhode Island.
On the day of her son’s death, Patty wrote, “We sorrowfully share the loss of our son Timmy to a severe anaphylactic reaction to peanuts.”
He had his entire life ahead of him, and we recently celebrated his college graduation. We have joined a club that no one wants to be a part of, and our hearts are broken.
“Please give your kids a little more affection today; don’t worry about the little things; and be kind to everyone.”
“To raise awareness of food allergies, educate others, and advance research and treatment options for anaphylaxis, his college frat brothers have created an in loving memory fundraiser page.”
Born in Southborough, Massachusetts, Howard received a degree in Communications Studies from the University of Rhode Island on May 16.
His family has started a fundraiser in his honor, and the proceeds will be donated to the Food Allergy Research and Education organization.
The fundraiser reads, “Let’s raise awareness about food allergies and the advancement of research and treatment for anaphylaxis.”
The page also encourages users to consider becoming an organ donor, as Timothy did.
The fundraiser’s message reads, “Keep dancing and spreading love and kindness to others.”
The page also states that “Timmy was just beginning what promised to be a remarkable journey in life.”
“Everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him, including family and friends, adored him for his kindness, drive, and deep love.”
He approached life with a unique kind of kindness and lightness, and he had a lot of things ahead of him. He was someone you could always rely on to listen—listen intently.
“He never interrupted, never passed judgment, and always gave you the impression that your opinions were valued.”
“Everyone around Tommy felt seen and safe because of the way he was.” Just being around him improved people’s moods because of his kind, serene demeanor.
Even in difficult situations, he didn’t moan. He never failed to see the positive side of people and maintained optimism when others gave up.
His heart was as sincere as they come, and his optimism was subdued yet impactful. He was kind, considerate, and genuinely loving toward others, making him one of the good ones.
“We are dedicated to honoring his memory in a way that brings purpose and change, even though his untimely death has left a profound void.”
The page has raised more than $27,500 so far.
