Losing Jenson to Anaphylaxis: A Mother’s Story of Love and Loss

 
A photograph of a mother and son in memory of Jenson Joseph who died in his sleep from anaphylaxis.

Jenson had a heart of gold - Lex

Jenson’s Mum Shares just how Special He Was

By Lex, Jenson’s mum

Jenson passed away on 30 April 2024 from a rare and catastrophic anaphylactic reaction while he lay sleeping. Accepting that Jenson is no longer here is something I simply cannot comprehend.

He had been diagnosed with a peanut and almond allergy at the age of 21 and had never needed to use his EpiPen. There were no signs of a reaction before he went to bed that evening. The coroner later ruled that his blood pressure suddenly dropped as a result of anaphylaxis. To this day, we still do not know what caused it.

I was told that Jenson would not be given an inquest. At the time, it barely registered, but nearly two years on, not having any concrete answers about why he died is very difficult. The doctors were clear that his death was due to anaphylaxis, but that is all the information I have been given. The lack of an inquest leaves questions unanswered and makes the loss even harder to bear.

Mother and son posing for a celebratory photo of a graduation

Lex and Jenson celebrating his graduation

From the moment Jenson arrived in the world, I knew I had been blessed with the most incredible baby boy. He was laid back from birth, always smiling on cue, and simply a joy to be around. He had a heart of gold, a presence that could light up any room, and a personality that brought happiness to everyone around him. He truly meant everything to his family and friends.

Jenson built a beautiful life for himself in York after studying for both his degree and Master’s at St John University. I was so proud of everything he achieved and looked forward to watching his life continue to unfold. Jenson was not just my only son. He was my focus and the reason behind every achievement I have ever accomplished. Living without him is unbearable, and I pray every day that wherever he is, he is safe and at peace.

Jenson loved football, and a group of his close friends are running 105 miles from Aston Villa to Bradford City in his memory, raising funds for Natasha’s Foundation. They are the @‌JogFathers, and the route they have chosen falls between two of Jenson’s greatest sporting loves. The run will take place on 07/04 at 10 AM. They are an amazing group of young men, and I am so proud of them and so glad they were in Jenson’s life.

💜 Remembering Jenson 💜 by Lex, Jenson’s devoted Mum

If you are able to support their incredible effort, please donate here: JustGiving fundraiser

Jenson’s story is a powerful reminder of why we continue to fight for allergy research and awareness, to prevent tragic losses like his.

Lex,
Jenson’s forever devoted mum