Ontario, Canada – The preventable death of 12-year-old Ryan Gibbons
from an asthma attack at his Ontario school has become a stark reminder of the deadly potential of the respiratory condition, especially when life-saving medication is inaccessible. Ryan succumbed to a severe asthma attack because his inhaler was locked away in the principal’s office, a direct consequence of the school’s policy.
Despite his mother, Sandra Gibbons, repeatedly advocating for her son and providing a doctor’s note, Ryan was not permitted to carry his own inhaler. Even spare inhalers brought to school were confiscated. His tragic passing ignited widespread outrage and galvanized Sandra Gibbons into a tireless campaign for change.
Her relentless efforts ultimately led to the passing of “Ryan’s Law” in Ontario. This crucial legislation mandates that schools in the province must allow children to carry their inhalers, provided they have a doctor’s note.
While U.S. laws generally permit students to carry their own inhalers, some schools regrettably continue to restrict access, often due to broad “anti-drug” policies. This practice persists despite the alarming statistic that asthma claims more than ten lives daily. Ryan Gibbons’ enduring legacy continues to save lives by ensuring that children with asthma can access their essential medication precisely when they need it most.