A 10-month-old girl who was rushed to a hospital and had to undergo five surgeries after swallowing a children’s water bead can finally return home.
Kennedy Mitchell was originally given a 50 percent chance of survival after ingesting a bead that blocked her bowel.
Her heartbroken mother, Folichia Mitchell, said that she bought the toy for her 8-year-old son, who was diagnosed with autism. But only days later, her toddler started throwing up.
Ms. Mitchell initially thought it was a food allergy but tests showed that there was a water bead inside her.
Also known as sensory beads, water beads are water-absorbing beads that are marketed as learning aids or form of entertainment for young children on the autism spectrum.
These beads expand in water and shrink when left to dry. They come in different colors and shapes, like dinosaurs, spheres, and jewels.
The water bead caused a blockage in Kennedy’s bowel, cutting off blood flow to some parts of her intestines.
She underwent a surgery to remove the water bead but she went into septic shock and had to be put on a ventilator.
More surgeries were needed to take pressure off her organs and remove extra fluid in her intestines.
In a heartbreaking video shared on TikTok, Ms. Mitchell said: “I’m grateful Kennedy can go home.”
She is now trying to raise awareness of the dangers of water beads.
Target, which sold the water beads, has removed the products from its shelves as it investigates with the manufacturer.
In a statement to Daily Mail, the retailer said: “We’re aware of this tragic situation and send our heartfelt sympathy to this child and her family.
“Target requires our vendors to comply with all product safety standards, and all state, federal and local laws.”
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