News
Boy's Helium Balloon Death Prompts Sister's Warning About Inhalation Risks
Karlton Noah Donaghey, age five, died after inhaling helium from a balloon. His sister is now campaigning to highlight the grave risks of inhaling helium products.
On June 23, 2022, five-year-old Karlton Noah Donaghey died after obtaining a helium balloon. His sister, Kaitlin, is now campaigning to highlight the serious risks of inhaling helium. Medical professionals have warned that a single breath of helium can be lethal, as it forces oxygen from the lungs. This can lead to the starvation of crucial organs. Kaitlin, from Gateshead, recalled visiting her mother, Lisa Donaghey, with her twin daughters. She spoke with the Mirror, remembering Karlton's envy of his baby nieces. After playing in the pool, Karlton wanted a cuddle, but his mother and sister were busy feeding the twins.
Key Facts
- Karlton Noah Donaghey, age five, died on June 23, 2022, after inhaling helium.
- The incident occurred when Karlton's mother and sister were briefly occupied.
- His sister, Kaitlin, is campaigning to raise awareness about the dangers of helium inhalation.
- Medical experts caution that inhaling helium can displace oxygen in the lungs.
- A lack of oxygen can cause rapid brain death.
- The coroner described the death as "every parent's nightmare.".
- Kaitlin brought her twin daughters to visit her mother on the day of the incident.
Primary Source
Research Sources
- Daily Star — 'My brother died from a birthday balloon - I'll never forget mum screaming'