Mangaluru: Lecturer succumbs to food allergy; Organs donated

Mangaluru: A lecturer who collapsed at a college passed away on Wednesday due to complications from a severe food allergy.

The deceased, Gloria Rodrigues (23), was a lecturer at St. Aloysius College and a resident of Bajpe. She reportedly suffered a sudden collapse on campus last Friday after consuming lunch, due to which she was immediately rushed to Father Muller Hospital in Kankanady.

She was unresponsive and was declared brain dead by a team of expert doctors on Wednesday as per prescribed procedure.

Anaphylactic Reaction

It was revealed that Gloria suffered from food allergy (anaphylactic reaction), a rare and severe condition. Her family shared that she had previously experienced minor health issues due to her allergy but had recovered.

Organ Donation

In a noble act, Gloria’s family decided to donate her organs. Her eyes, heart, skin, liver, kidneys, and lungs were donated, with each organ allocated to various hospitals across Karnataka.

The liver was sent to AJ Hospital, Mangaluru, while her lungs and heart were sent to BGS Hospital and Narayana Health, Bengaluru, respectively. One kidney was donated to KMC Hospital, Manipal, and her skin and eyes were retained at Father Muller Hospital, Mangaluru.

Rare Condition

Dr. Uday Kumar, Medical Superintendent at Father Muller Hospital, mentioned that deaths due to food allergies, especially anaphylactic reactions, are extremely rare. He explained that only about 50% of those with food allergies take preventive measures, and advised anyone with severe allergies to seek medical guidance. He lauded Gloria’s family for their courageous act of organ donation, calling it a supreme contribution even in her passing.