In a heartbreaking incident, the family of a former NFL player, Jake Thompson, is mourning the loss of his three-year-old daughter, Lily, who died after becoming entangled in a mini-blind cord. Last week, Lily was found with the cord wrapped around her neck, and despite being rushed to the hospital, she was declared brain dead shortly after. The family, who has seven children in total, is relying on their faith to cope with this unimaginable tragedy. A family representative noted, “Their beliefs provide them comfort, as they know that families are eternal.”
Sadly, accidents like this are not as rare as one might think. In the U.S., over 20 children lose their lives each year due to strangulation from window covering cords. Just a mere fifteen seconds can lead to unconsciousness, while a minute could be fatal.
The Danger of Blind Cords
The danger of blind cords is particularly troubling: even when secured, they can still loosen, posing a threat. Shortening the cords could still leave them long enough to be hazardous if the blinds are raised. To truly ensure safety, the best solution is to eliminate the cords entirely, which means cutting them at the headrail and relying solely on a wand to control the blinds.
Recognizing the risks, some companies have opted to stop producing corded blinds altogether. For instance, IKEA has ceased selling them, and SelectBlinds.com has transitioned to a fully cordless range this year. If replacing your blinds isn’t an option, there are alternatives. Consider ordering cord cleats online for free to keep cords out of children’s reach. You might also opt to replace window coverings in specific rooms, or even choose affordable paper blinds for spaces like nurseries, which come in packs to easily replace when necessary. Additionally, keeping furniture like cribs away from windows can help minimize risks.
A Touching Act of Kindness
In a touching act of kindness, Lily’s parents have decided to donate her organs, giving hope to others in need. “We are grateful that Lily will have a peaceful passing and help save lives,” her mother shared on social media. A family spokesperson mentioned the potential to save as many as eight lives through their donation. This decision brings some comfort during such a sorrowful time, knowing that they might help prevent similar tragedies for other families.
Resources for Further Information
For more information on home insemination, you can visit this link. Additionally, if you are interested in artificial insemination, this resource is a great option. For further reading on pregnancy and home insemination, check out this article.
Conclusion
In summary, the tragic death of Lily Thompson underscores the dangers of blind cords, highlighting the need for awareness and preventive measures. As families navigate their own journeys, it’s important to prioritize safety and consider the impact of such accidents on loved ones.