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Waterloo infant hospitalized in critical condition after inhaling tiki torch oil

Aaron Calvin
The Des Moines Register

Casual summer fun ended in every parent's worst nightmare last weekend when an Iowa couple's young son accidentally inhaled a life-threatening amount of citronella oil.

Ashley and Nick Fairchild of Waterloo were finishing a day of poolside relaxation last Sunday when the two found Barrett, their infant son, appearing to be "drinking" citronella oil used to power backyard tiki torches.

Barrett Fairchild of Waterloo has been diagnosed with acute respiratory distress after inhaling citronella fluid.

According to Ashley Fairchild, Barrett stopped breathing and was rushed to a local hospital. Doctors learned the boy had not ingested the oil, but instead aspirated it.

Barrett was later intubated and flown to University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital in Iowa City, where he remains in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.

"We are very overwhelmed with the amount of support and prayer we have received," she told the Register. "We would love to spread awareness on just how quickly something so tragic can happen and how the importance of safety plays a huge role in children's lives."

Ashley Fairfield said Barrett was diagnosed with acute respiratory distress and has been treated with a ventilator and chest tube. The couple expects their son's recovery to ebb and flow as doctors treat the condition.

The Fairchilds created a GoFundMe to assist with medical and incidental expenses as they travel back and forth from Waterloo and Iowa City to see Barrett and care for their six other children, including one that's only three weeks old.

The family also started a Facebook group dedicated to Barrett's recovery so those concerned can receive updates and track the boy's progress.
