Living with a severe dairy allergy is not just an inconvenience — it’s a life-and-death situation for some. This became tragically evident when 13-year-old Karanbir Cheema passed away after an allergic reaction at school. On June 28, 2017, Karanbir was struck by a piece of cheese thrown at him by a classmate. The dairy triggered anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction, but Karanbir’s EpiPen was expired, rendering it ineffective. Despite efforts to save him, he passed away days later after suffering cardiac arrest.

Karanbir’s death highlights the critical need for increased awareness and safety protocols regarding food allergies, especially in schools. A dairy allergy differs from lactose intolerance; it’s a life-threatening condition where the immune system reacts violently to dairy proteins. Symptoms can range from mild swelling to severe anaphylaxis, which requires immediate action. Unfortunately, the combination of an expired EpiPen and inadequate school protocols led to a delayed response that proved fatal.

This tragedy underscores the importance of proper education and vigilance for those managing food allergies. Schools and communities must implement stronger allergy protocols, such as double-checking ingredients and providing readily accessible emergency medication. The tragic loss of Karanbir is a reminder that casual attitudes toward allergies can have devastating consequences, and it’s up to all of us to create safer, more informed environments for those affected.

In honor of Karanbir, let’s ensure that those living with severe allergies are met with the empathy, respect, and safety they deserve. By advocating for stricter safety measures and understanding the gravity of food allergies, we can prevent another avoidable tragedy.