A mother from Wisconsin is calling for increased regulations on balloons after the tragic death of her infant son, who passed away just two days before his first birthday. Don’Vyaire Avita-Mays, affectionately known as “baby Don,” died following an incident at a trunk-or-treat Halloween event in Kenosha, where he accidentally ingested a piece of a balloon.
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Kisha Avita-Wilson, the bereaved mother, recounted the harrowing event that led to her son’s death during an interview with NBC Chicago. She had taken her two daughters to join in the family-friendly Halloween festivities, and the children received balloon animals as part of the celebrations. Avita-Wilson had been vigilant in keeping the balloons away from her youngest child, but despite her efforts, tragedy struck.
“I remember one of the balloons coming undone. Baby Don grabbed it and bit into it, which caused the tied-up section to lodge in his throat,” Avita-Wilson explained. In a desperate attempt to save her son, she removed him from his car seat and performed CPR, while another adult tried to assist her. Despite their efforts, the baby turned blue and lost consciousness.
Emergency responders arrived promptly, attempting to dislodge the balloon piece using specialised equipment, but their efforts were in vain. “There was nothing we could have done to save my baby boy,” Avita-Wilson lamented. She struggles to speak of Don’Vyaire in the past tense, expressing her profound loss as a parent.
The impact of this traumatic experience has taken a toll on Avita-Wilson’s health. Currently 30 weeks pregnant, she was hospitalised after experiencing complications due to the stress of her son’s death, which has led to premature contractions. An emotional GoFundMe page was set up to assist with funeral expenses, capturing the family’s sorrow and the cherished memories they had with Don’Vyaire, described as a joyful child with an infectious laugh and a radiant smile.
In the wake of her tragic loss, Kisha Avita-Wilson is determined to raise awareness about the hazards associated with balloons, especially for young children. She believes current warnings on balloon packaging do not adequately inform parents of the potential risks. “Balloons have warnings on them, but that is not enough,” she asserted. “They should stop selling them. Stop marketing them to kids. Stop producing them.”
Avita-Wilson’s advocacy has resonated with many parents who are reconsidering the safety of balloon merchandise in light of her story. She hopes to galvanise support for stricter regulations that would ultimately protect other children from similar fates. Her message is clear: increased awareness and changes in legislation could help prevent future tragedies.
Family and friends have rallied around Avita-Wilson during this devastating time, urging the community to contribute to the GoFundMe effort set up in her son’s memory. The fundraiser not only seeks to cover funeral costs but also serves as a demonstration of the love and support surrounding Avita-Wilson and her family as they navigate this unimaginable hardship.
As the local community mourns alongside the family, Avita-Wilson continues to advocate for her son’s legacy, hoping that increased awareness and precaution can lead to a safer environment for children everywhere. She urges every parent to exercise caution with balloons, wanting to ensure that no other family has to endure the heartache she has faced.
With voices like Avita-Wilson’s rising in the call for change, it remains to be seen whether stricter regulations will be enacted. For now, she encourages continuous prayers for her family, as they remember the love-filled moments shared with their lost son and the new life that lies ahead.