On Thanksgiving in Maine, 11-year-old Oakley Debbs, a straight-A student and star athlete from West Palm Beach, Florida, tragically lost his life after eating a piece of pound cake that contained walnuts. Oakley, who had asthma and a nut allergy, thought the cake was safe. After taking a bite, he told his parents it might contain nuts. His mother, Merrill, tasted it and confirmed a nutty flavor—later identified as walnut.

Following their usual protocol, Merrill gave Oakley Benadryl. At first, he seemed fine, showing only a single hive. But soon after, he complained of chest pain and began vomiting. His parents called 911, but within 10 minutes, Oakley’s airways had closed, and his heart stopped. He could not be revived.

Oakley was known for his love of sports—football, tennis, soccer, and marathon running—despite his health challenges. His family described him as a “brave and strong warrior.”

In response to his heartbreaking death, the Debbs family founded the Red Sneakers Foundation, named after Oakley’s favorite shoes. The organization aims to raise awareness about the dangers of food allergies and anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction to allergens.

Experts emphasize the importance of using epinephrine immediately, even if symptoms seem mild.

“Always in my heart of hearts, I knew that he would make a difference in his life,” said Merrill. “I just didn’t know it would be after he passed away.”

Please share Oakley’s story to help educate others and prevent similar tragedies.