A Massachusetts family is grieving an unimaginable loss after 22-year-old Timothy Howard died from a severe allergic reaction to peanuts just days after celebrating his college graduation.

Timothy, a recent graduate from the University of Rhode Island with a degree in Communication Studies, suffered a fatal anaphylactic reaction on May 24. His parents, Tim and Patty Howard, said the reaction came on suddenly in the middle of the night.

“He came in and woke us up and said that he couldn’t breathe,” his father recalled in a heartbreaking interview with NBC affiliate TurnTo10. “At that point, it unfolded very quickly.”

Despite immediately administering his EpiPen and calling 911, Timothy’s parents were unable to save him. The allergen had already triggered a full-blown crisis.

Patty later shared the devastating news on Facebook: “It is with heavy hearts we share the loss of our son Timmy to a severe anaphylactic reaction to peanuts. We just celebrated his college graduation and he had his whole life ahead of him. Our hearts are broken and we now have joined a club no one wants to be a part of.”

She urged others to “hug your children a little tighter today, don’t sweat the small stuff, and spread kindness to this world.”

Credit: Give A Hand.

In the wake of his tragic passing, Timothy’s fraternity brothers launched a fundraiser in his name to support Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE). The Give A Hand campaign aims to raise awareness about life-threatening food allergies and help fund research into anaphylaxis treatment.

The fundraiser has already surpassed its $25,000 goal, with over $27,000 donated at the time of writing.

A tribute on the page, written by Timothy’s friend Kourosh Emami, paints a picture of a young man deeply loved by all who knew him: “Timmy was just beginning what promised to be a remarkable journey. He was driven, kind, and deeply loved… He made people feel safe and seen… He didn’t complain, even when things were hard. His positivity was quiet but powerful, and his heart was as genuine as they come.”

It continued: “He truly was one of the good ones; gentle, thoughtful, and full of love for others. His unexpected passing has left a profound void, but we are committed to honoring his memory in a way that brings purpose and change.”

At just 22, Timothy had already left a powerful impression on the world around him. Now, through the efforts of his loved ones, his legacy will continue, spreading kindness, awareness, and hope in his name.