From Near-Fatal Allergy Attack in Brazil to Global Advocacy: Shanna Van Der Burght's Inspiring Journey

Shanna Van Der Burght, a renowned Belgian travel influencer, has captivated audiences with her breathtaking adventures across the globe. Yet, beneath the veneer of stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures lies a harrowing tale of survival and an inspiring commitment to advocacy. Her journey took a terrifying turn during a trip to Brazil, transforming her into a passionate voice for allergy awareness worldwide.

The ordeal began innocently enough.

Shanna, who lives with a severe, life-threatening peanut allergy, had meticulously planned her precautions. Dining at a seemingly reputable restaurant in Brazil, she communicated her allergy clearly and repeatedly, ensuring the staff understood the gravity of her condition. Despite her diligent efforts, a moment of cross-contamination proved almost fatal.

A dish, explicitly ordered to be free of peanuts, triggered a catastrophic allergic reaction that rapidly escalated.

Recounting the terrifying experience, Shanna describes the swift onset of anaphylaxis: her throat closing, difficulty breathing, and an overwhelming sense of dread. Frantic, she administered her Epipen, a vital auto-injector containing adrenaline, but the severity of the reaction required immediate medical intervention.

She was rushed to a local hospital, where doctors fought to stabilize her as she teetered on the brink of death. The incident served as a stark, horrifying reminder of the silent dangers that lurk for those with severe allergies, even when every precaution seems to have been taken.

Emerging from this near-fatal encounter, Shanna could have easily retreated from her passion for travel.

Instead, she chose to channel her trauma into a powerful mission. She transformed her personal nightmare into a global platform, dedicated to raising awareness about the critical importance of understanding and accommodating food allergies, especially within the travel and hospitality sectors. Her advocacy stresses the need for stringent protocols, thorough staff training, and a universal appreciation of how a minor oversight can have life-ending consequences.

Today, Shanna continues her intrepid travels, currently exploring the diverse landscapes and vibrant heritage of India.

Her ongoing adventures are a testament to her resilience and unwavering love for discovering new places, but they are also a powerful statement. She travels not just for herself, but for every individual who lives with a severe allergy, demonstrating that with careful planning and increased global awareness, the world can still be explored safely.

Her story is a beacon of hope and a call to action, reminding us all that vigilance, empathy, and education are paramount in creating a safer world for travelers with allergies.