Bay Ridge girl advocates for EpiPen accessibility and gets law passed 2 years later
John Zaremba, 13, says it's not easy living with an allergy.
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A Bay Ridge boy’s life was saved by an EpiPen after going into anaphylactic shock 6 years ago.
John Zaremba, 13, says it's not easy living with an allergy.
"I have to really think about everything that I eat. There's nothing I can just eat without caution," he says.
His sister, Lucia Zaremba, 17, turned the medical emergency into advocacy, for improved access to EpiPens for all.
"It just felt like the perfect opportunity to take something bad that happened and make it good," she said.
The CDC reports that one in four children have some form of allergy, and allergic reactions can be unpredictable.
The Zaremba family says everyone should have access to an EpiPen, especially in public spaces.
Sen. Andrew Gounardes worked closely with the family to draft legislation that would ensure EpiPens are accessible in public spaces, potentially saving lives during allergic reactions.
“Working on the bill, drafting it together, and hearing her story—hearing the family’s story—was really special,” Gounardes said. “It helped push the bill across the finish line.”
Lucia’s efforts have not only made an impact in New York, but she’s also received messages from people in other states hoping to bring similar legislation to their areas.
"A girl DMed me the other day, saying she saw my story and wants to make this happen in Jersey," Lucia said. "The fact that this is impacting people outside of New York too; I just feel really lucky."
The Zaremba family hopes this new law will not only save lives but also provide a vital lifeline to those living with allergies.
