In 2016, Jackie Fedro’s daughter Gabbie, then 13, experienced a harrowing incident that serves as a stark reminder of hidden dangers associated with everyday technology. Although the event happened years ago, its message remains relevant today.
That year, Jackie decided it was time for Gabbie to have her first cellphone. For Christmas, Gabbie received an LG d500, a gift intended to help the family stay connected amidst her busy schedule of extracurricular activities.
“We finally gave in and bought her a cellphone so we could keep in touch during her hectic practice schedule,” Jackie told BuzzFeed.
However, what was meant to be a convenience turned into a nightmare. One day, while using her phone in her room, Gabbie screamed suddenly, alarming her family.
“She came running downstairs clutching her neck,” Jackie recalled. “She was in so much pain, screaming hysterically. As a mother, it’s the worst feeling to see your child in such agony and not know how to help. It took several minutes before she could even explain what had happened.”
Gabbie revealed that she had been using her phone while it was plugged into its charger. Somehow, an electrical current traveled from the charger, through the phone, and into her metal necklace, which burned her neck.
“She suffered painful second-degree burns and now has a scar encircling her neck,” Jackie told BuzzFeed.
In the aftermath of the terrifying ordeal, Jackie issued a heartfelt warning to other parents. She highlighted the little-known dangers of using phones while charging, especially for children.
“With so many kids using phones these days, parents need to be aware of the potential harm they can cause,” she urged.
This alarming incident underscores the importance of safety precautions when using electronics. Have you ever encountered or heard about something similar? Such stories are sobering reminders of the hidden risks in our everyday lives.