The family of a 13-year-old girl who died after inhaling helium from a birthday balloon has issued a stark warning about the dangers of the gas. Jordan McDowell, from Newtownabbey, was found dead by her mother last Sunday after inhaling helium from a balloon bought for her birthday.
Jordan's parents, Karen and Gareth McDowell, said they wanted to prevent other families from experiencing a similar tragedy. 'We just don't want anyone else to go through this, it's been like a living nightmare,' they said.
Jordan's grandfather, Ronnie Hamilton, called for helium to be banned or restricted. 'I don't want anyone to go through what we've been through and it's about time legislation was brought in,' he said. He urged parents to avoid buying helium balloons, describing them as 'death'.
Karen McDowell said she still cannot believe her daughter is gone. 'I keep saying to people it's like she's gone on holiday, but she'll be coming back soon, but she won't; she'll never be back.'
The family hopes that raising awareness of the dangers will save lives. 'Helium is marketed as an inert gas, which makes it sound like a 'safe' substance, it's not and we don't want people to inhale it,' Mr Hamilton said.
Jordan's parents said they are determined to stay strong for their other two children. 'Jordan brought us joy for 13 short years and we will treasure those,' Mr McDowell added.
