On March 28, 2026, my 14-year-old nephew was seated in first class on United with my sister and her daughter. My two sons were also traveling with them.
During the flight, my nephew was served a cup of nuts and ate three cashews. He immediately began having an allergic reaction. He has no known allergies, although his sister and my son Jackson (also 14) do.
My son quickly stepped in and gave him Benadryl, prednisone, used a portable nebulizer, and monitored him with a pulse oximeter. After an announcement was made, a pediatrician on the plane also came to assist.
According to my sister, the onboard medical kit was not helpful, and the crew did not seem sure how to handle the situation.
My sister said my son Jackson was a lifesaver. I always make sure he is prepared—he carries an Epi bag and he is also undergoing treatment at the Food Allergy Institute, where preparedness is part of his care plan.
Thankfully, my nephew stabilized and was met by paramedics when the plane landed.
Comments are closed.