A mother who almost lost her son from a vaping-related illness is now speaking out against the FDA.
Candy McKnight’s son Walker landed in an Orlando hospital on a respirator, fighting for his life, after developing a brief vaping habit. Thankfully, he survived, and now his mother is demanding answers.
Mom Candy McKnight Slams the FDA for allowing e-cigarettes and vaping products to be marketed and sold to young people.
Walker recalled purchasing his first Juul at 19-years-old. “It gave me a really intense, good feeling. I could feel my whole body throbbing and tingling.”
Just three months later, his lungs were inflamed and doctors fought to keep his collapsing organs from completely shutting down. Walker is now in need of a lung and kidney transplant.
After Walker returned home, FDA investigators paid a visit to the family’s home asking questions about his Juul e-cigarette consumption.
In recalling the story to People, the protective mama and critical care nurse revealed that she had questions of her own.
“I’m glad to see you here,” Candy said to the investigators. “But where the hell were you four years ago when you approved these stupid things [to be sold]?!”
“That’s the last time we ever heard from them,” added Walker’s dad, Dave.
Candy isn’t alone in her concern over the e-cigarette epidemic. According to the CDC, young people across the country are facing vaping-related illnesses and up to 47 deaths in the U.S. have been connected to vaping.
“I just don’t understand how they could allow this company to start putting these products on the market without first testing them,” shared Candy. “No parent should have to go through this.”