A 19-year-old has died after participating in a dangerous social media trend known as "dusting," where chemicals in canned air dusting spray are inhaled for a brief and potentially fatal high.
Renna O'Rourke died after just one instance of inhaling the gas, AZ Family reported. Doctors say she succumbed to sudden sniffing death syndrome — a fatal cardiac arrest triggered by inhalant abuse.
"She was vivacious and caring and loyal," said her mother, Dana O'Rourke.
"She always said, 'I'm going to be famous, Dad. Just you watch,'" recalled her father, Aaron O'Rourke. "Unfortunately, this is not under the most optimal of circumstances."
Dusting — also known as chroming or huffing — has gained traction on TikTok, with teens often unaware of its deadly risks. According to Dr. Randy Weisman, head of the ICU at HonorHealth Scottsdale Osborn, the chemicals in dusting sprays can displace oxygen in the body, leading to organ failure, brain damage, or death.
"This is extremely concerning," Weisman warned.
Renna was hospitalized and remained unconscious for seven days before passing. Her family has since vowed to spread awareness in her honor. "We don't have children to bury them," Dana said.
Renna's legacy lives on through organ donation, which her parents say reflects her generous spirit. A GoFundMe has been launched to help cover medical and funeral expenses.
The O'Rourkes are urging parents to stay vigilant. "Don't take your kids' word for it. Dig deep. Search their rooms," Dana pleaded. "Don't trust — and that sounds horrible, but it could save their life."
