A family hoping for a miracle is now planning a funeral.
A father who refused to give up says his 15-year-old daughter has died after a viral internet challenge turned deadly.
WHAT HAPPENED
Leah Presson, 15, died after taking part in the so-called "Benadryl challenge," according to her father, Richard Presson.
Her family says Leah took a dangerous amount of the over-the-counter allergy medicine in an attempt to experience hallucinations. She soon suffered seizures and was rushed to the hospital.
Doctors later said Leah had no brain activity and declared her brain dead on June 14. Her father has now confirmed that she has died from her injuries.
The "Benadryl challenge" first spread on social media in 2020. It encourages people to take large amounts of diphenhydramine, the active ingredient in Benadryl, despite repeated warnings from doctors that it can cause seizures, heart problems, coma, or death.
WHAT THE EVIDENCE SHOWS
Leah Presson was 15 years old.
- She reportedly suffered seizures after taking a large dose of Benadryl.
- Doctors declared her brain dead on June 14.
- Her father later confirmed she died from her injuries.
- Medical experts warn high doses of diphenhydramine can be fatal.
THE BIGGER QUESTION
Social media trends can spread much faster than safety warnings.
Health experts have spent years warning that viral challenges can make dangerous behavior look harmless, especially to young people. Families are now asking what more schools, parents, platforms, and companies can do before another child is lost.
WHAT HAPPENS NOW
Leah's family is mourning her loss while sharing her story in hopes of warning others about the risks of viral online challenges.
Doctors continue urging parents to talk with children about the dangers of misusing over-the-counter medicines, even those that can be bought without a prescription.
WHAT WE STILL DON'T KNOW
How much Benadryl did Leah take?
- Which social media platform, if any, influenced her actions?
- Will investigators release more details about the case?
Transparency notes
Published: Jun 29, 2026. No major post-publication update has been logged.
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Sources
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