Ryan Gibbons was a 12-year-old boy who loved motorbikes and hiking in the woods. However, his life was tragically cut short due to a fatal asthma attack at school. The incident highlights the importance of having access to life-saving medication, particularly for students with asthma
On that fateful day, Ryan suffered an asthma attack while playing soccer at school. Unfortunately, his inhaler was locked in the school office, and despite his friends’ efforts to carry him to the office, they couldn’t get to the inhaler in time. Ryan passed out and never revived.
The incident sparked widespread outrage and raised questions about the school’s policy on asthma medication. Ryan’s mother, Sandra Gibbons, revealed that the school had repeatedly confiscated Ryan’s extra inhalers, despite her efforts to provide him with a spare. The school’s policy required students to keep their medication in the office, which proved to be a fatal mistake.
Sandra Gibbons was determined to ensure that no other family would have to go through the same tragedy. She started a petition calling for standardized asthma management plans in schools and urged the government to pass legislation allowing students to carry their inhalers with them.
Her efforts paid off, and “Ryan’s Law” was passed, allowing students to carry their inhalers with a doctor’s note. The law has been hailed as a victory for asthma awareness and a testament to Sandra Gibbons’ tireless advocacy.
Ryan’s story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of having access to life-saving medication, particularly for students with asthma. It also highlights the need for schools to have standardized asthma management plans in place. By sharing Ryan’s story, we hope to raise awareness about the risks of asthma and the importance of having access to life-saving medication.