05/07/2025
Don’t hesitate, ALWAYS use your EPI Pen.
This is Liam’s story, and his mum’s worst nightmare.
On June 30, 2025, Liam’s mum was in Bali enjoying a well-earned break, sipping cocktails and sharing laughs with her husband. But back in Australia, their 24-year-old son Liam was in the emergency department of Kalgoorlie Regional Hospital, in anaphylactic shock.
Liam hadn’t had a serious reaction in over 20 years. He works in mining and was away from home when he ate a meal that had been confirmed by the chef as “100 percent nut free.” Minutes later, his lips began to swell.
He didn’t realise what was happening at first, but knew something was very wrong. He carries two EpiPens at all times. But in that critical moment, he hesitated.
Instead of using the pen, Liam forced himself to vomit and made it to the local hospital, just in time.
Medical staff immediately administered adrenaline, antihistamines, and steroids. But his throat was already closing. They had to repeat the medication and add salbutamol to open his airways.
💛 Liam survived. A reminder how fast and unforgiving anaphylaxis can be.
From Liam’s mum:
“I thought I had taught him well, if in doubt, always use the EpiPen. But even at 24, even with experience, panic and uncertainty can take over. Please talk to your Ana kids. No matter how old they are.”
This story is a powerful reminder for us all:
⚠️ Reactions can return unexpectedly, even decades later
⚠️ Always carry at least TWO EpiPens
⚠️ When in doubt, USE the pen
Our deepest thanks to the medical staff who saved Liam, and to this brave family for sharing their experience to help others.
