Paul Braithwaite, 20, who was known as the world’s most allergic boy, has passed away.
The only known instance of eosinophilic gastroenteropathy in Britain and the only case to be documented since 1906 was Braithwaite, who was just a newborn at the time of his initial diagnosis with the rare and debilitating type of the ailment.
He began to throw up and break out in rashes when exposed to sunlight, grass, fabric, dust, and animals during this difficult condition. He also had a variety of food allergies as well.
However, his courage garnered him a legion of fans, including former England manager Fabio Capello and snooker legends Jimmy White and John Parrott.
Kelly, Paul’s grieving mother, speaking of her son after his death to his most recent cancer struggle, said, “He had every allergy there was, his skin was red raw and he suffered on an almost daily basis.
“His growth was stunted because of the medication he was on. At the age of 20, he was still wearing clothes for 10 to 11-year-olds.
“He had a set of very complex needs and had battles at every turn. He’d been in air ambulances, resus and intensive care but nothing phased him at all.
“He faced all of it with the greatest attitude and joked about everything. Whatever was thrown at him he just got on with it.”
Paul’s dad also spoke of him, saying, “He loved Manchester United and we went to a match together as part of the Make a Wish charity. He was in his own little world.
“He was very lonely but he was happy that way. Life is just too short. All he ever wanted was to be normal.”
