Ryan Gibbons, a bright and energetic 12-year-old, loved motorbikes and hiking. But in 2012, a preventable tragedy at his school claimed his life.
Ryan suffered a fatal asthma attack while playing soccer. His inhaler—a device that could’ve saved him—was locked away in the school office due to strict policies. Despite his mother’s pleas and a doctor’s note, the school repeatedly confiscated spare inhalers Ryan brought with him.
During the attack, Ryan’s friends tried to carry him to the office, but they couldn’t get there in time. He collapsed and never recovered.
Devastated, Ryan’s mother, Sandra Gibbons, channeled her grief into action. She petitioned the Ontario government to change policies, ensuring kids could carry their inhalers at school. Her efforts led to Ryan’s Law (Bill 135), mandating schools allow students to keep their inhalers on hand with a doctor’s note.
Now, kids across Ontario—and beyond—have better access to life-saving medication, thanks to Sandra’s fight.
Asthma still takes 10 American lives daily, and many schools have outdated policies banning inhalers. Ryan’s story reminds us: quick access to medication can make all the difference.
Share this to honor Ryan’s memory and spread awareness about the risks of asthma. Together, we can save lives.