A Celebration Turns to Tragedy
On September 10, 2022, 20-year-old Faith Waterman Batistich was celebrating her daughter’s first birthday in Te Puke when a lighthearted moment turned fatal. Guests began inhaling helium from a canister to make their voices sound funny. Though initially reluctant, Faith joined in. “It went too fast and kind of shot her in the back of the neck,” her twin sister Eden recalled. Faith collapsed instantly and could not be revived, despite CPR and 45 minutes of medical efforts.
The Hidden Dangers of Helium
Helium, though non-toxic, displaces oxygen in the lungs. Inhaling it under pressure can cause immediate hypoxia and death. In Faith’s case, the powerful stream of gas was fatal within seconds.
A Family’s Mission
Faith’s grieving family is raising awareness about helium dangers. “It’s like you lost yourself as well,” Eden said. They urge for tighter helium regulations, including banning individual sales and improving warning labels.
Calls for Change
Coroner Louella Dunn emphasized the need for clearer warnings: “The warning relevant to dangers of inhalation is the last warning of five.” She recommended placing bold safety notices on canister tops to help prevent future tragedies.
