Timothy Howard, a recent graduate with a degree in Communication Studies from the University of Rhode Island, tragically passed away last month after consuming a snack contaminated with peanuts, leaving his parents, Tim and Patty Howard from Massachusetts, in deep mourning.
Just days after celebrating his graduation, Timothy experienced a severe anaphylactic reaction on May 24, which proved fatal. Recalling the distressing moment, his father shared in an interview with NBC affiliate TurnTo10.com, “He came in and woke us up and said that he couldn’t breathe. At that point, it unfolded very quickly.”
Despite Tim and Patty’s efforts to administer an EpiPen and call 911, they were unable to counteract the rapid progression of the allergic reaction.
Patty announced Timothy’s passing on Facebook, expressing, “It is with heavy hearts we share the loss of our son Timmy to a severe anaphylactic reaction to peanuts.” She emphasized the heartbreak of losing him so soon after his graduation, adding, “Our hearts are broken and we now have joined a club no one wants to be a part of. Please hug your children a little tighter today, don’t sweat the small stuff and spread kindness to this world.”
In his memory, Timothy’s college fraternity brothers have initiated a fundraiser to promote education and awareness regarding food allergies, as well as to support research and treatment for anaphylaxis.
The Give A Hand fundraiser, benefiting the Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE) organization, has exceeded its $25,000 goal. Timothy’s friend, Kourosh Emami, elaborated on the page: “Let’s spread awareness on food allergies and on advancing anaphylaxis research and treatment.”
Emami continued, “Timmy was just beginning what promised to be a remarkable journey in life. He was driven, kind, and deeply loved by family, friends, and everyone who had the joy of knowing him.”
“He had so much ahead of him, and he approached life with a rare kind of kindness and light. He was the person you could always count on to listen—really listen. He never judged, never interrupted, and always made you feel like what you had to say mattered,” Emami added.
“Timmy had a way of making everyone around him feel safe and seen. He had a warm, calm presence that made people feel better just by being near him,” continued the tribute. “He didn’t complain, even when things were hard. He always looked for the good in people and held on to hope when others couldn’t. His positivity was quiet but powerful, and his heart was as genuine as they come.”
“He truly was one of the good ones—gentle, thoughtful, and full of love for others. His unexpected passing has left a profound void, but we are committed to honoring his memory in a way that brings purpose and change,” the message concluded.
As of now, 628 individuals have donated a total of $27,592 (£20,327) to support the cause.
For those dealing with grief and seeking confidential support, GrieveWell can be contacted at (734) 975-0238 or via email at [email protected].