Hannah Glass, a 19-year-old college freshman, tragically died from an allergic reaction after eating a homemade brownie. Despite her usual caution about her severe peanut allergy, the brownie, given to her by a friend from a campus women’s group, unknowingly contained roasted peanut flour, a gluten-free alternative.
After her second bite, Hannah knew something was wrong. Her father, David Glass, recounted that she experienced immediate and aggressive symptoms, including vomiting and hives. Although she took Benadryl, her condition worsened dramatically when she tried to rest, leading to anaphylaxis and a collapsed lung. She lost consciousness before an EpiPen could be administered.
Paramedics revived her after her heart stopped for four minutes, and she was rushed to the hospital. However, due to several seizures and severe brain swelling, most of her brain was terminally damaged, leaving no hope for recovery.
Before her passing on November 10, 2024, Hannah was honored with an “Honor Walk” as she was taken for organ donation, saving four lives. Her parents later picked up her cremated remains, expressing a mix of disbelief and comfort in having a tangible memorial of her. They are now urging others with food allergies to remain vigilant and ensure their EpiPens are up to date.