‘I vaped for one year and almost died’

Petrea Mckeithen, a 26-year-old woman from Pennsylvania, recently shared her harrowing experience with vaping that led to a life-threatening situation. Mckeithen started vaping at the age of 21 and quickly became addicted to it, drawn in by the flavors and the appeal of rebellion associated with the habit.

Despite warnings from others about the potential dangers of vaping, Mckeithen continued with the habit until one day, about a year later, she found herself struggling to breathe. Initially thinking it was asthma, she soon discovered that both of her lungs had collapsed, a condition known as pneumothorax.

Pneumothorax occurs when air enters the chest cavity and puts pressure on the lung, causing it to partially or fully collapse. In Mckeithen’s case, vaping had contributed to the development of this condition, along with deep and forceful inhalations that put stress on her lungs.

After being rushed to the hospital, Mckeithen was placed in a medically induced coma and put on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) to support her heart and lung function. Despite being given just a 3% chance of survival, she managed to pull through and survive the ordeal.

However, Mckeithen’s battle was far from over. She now lives with chronic asthma and a respiratory condition known as “vaper’s lung,” which requires her to take daily medication and be cautious about her environment to avoid respiratory infections.

Despite the challenges she faces, Mckeithen considers herself fortunate to be alive and cherishes her role as a mother to her 18-month-old son. She is determined to raise awareness about the dangers of vaping, especially among young people who may be lured in by the false perception of it being safer than smoking.

Mckeithen’s message is clear: vaping is not worth the risk. She warns others about the potential consequences of the habit and urges them to think twice before picking up a vape pen. Her own experience serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the very real and life-threatening dangers associated with vaping.

As Mckeithen continues to navigate life with the lingering effects of her vaping-related health issues, she remains grateful for the second chance she has been given and hopes that her story will inspire others to make informed choices about their health and well-being.