A two-year-old boy from Georgia is in critical condition after being stung more than 150 times by yellow jackets, resulting in multiple organ failure.
Beckham Reed was riding an electric toy vehicle outside with his cousins when he accidentally disturbed a yellow jacket nest, according to WJXT and a GoFundMe page set up by his family. The aggressive swarm attacked Beckham, leaving him with over 150 stings.
Initially, doctors at the emergency room treated him with morphine and Benadryl and sent him home. But less than 24 hours later, Beckham’s condition worsened—his skin turned yellow, prompting a rushed return to the hospital.
Doctors soon discovered the toddler, who was born with only one functioning kidney, was experiencing multi-organ failure affecting his heart, liver, and kidney. He was quickly transferred to the ICU at Memorial Savannah, where he was placed on a ventilator, dialysis, and administered life-saving IV medications.
Because of his young age, small size, and the overwhelming number of stings, Beckham’s body struggled to cope with the massive load of venom. There is no antivenom for yellow jacket stings, meaning the medical team can only support his organs as they work to filter out the toxins.
“This is not a common medical situation,” the GoFundMe page reads. “We are praying for healing and strength. All the doctors can do now is support his body while the toxins clear.”
Beckham’s father, Peyton, has had to step away from work to be by his son’s side full-time.
As of Wednesday, there was a hopeful update: Beckham’s kidney and liver numbers had begun to improve, and he was waking up more frequently.
“He’s strong—and he’s fighting,” the update said. “He’s our little kicker, and we know he’s working hard to get better.”Tools
