Órla Baxendale, a talented performer from the UK who competed in Irish dance, died from anaphylactic shock after eating mislabeled cookies on January 11, just days after her 25th birthday.
Órla, who had moved to New York in 2018, was in New Milford, Connecticut preparing to star in the MOMIX dance company's adaptation of "Alice in Wonderland" when the tragedy occurred, the Lancashire Telegraph reports.
The performer's life was "cut short due to anaphylactic shock resulting from a severe allergic reaction," the New York personal injury law firm Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf said in a statement on January 24.
"Órla’s passing stemmed from an unfortunate incident involving the consumption of a cookie manufactured by Cookies United and sold by Stew Leonard’s, which contained undisclosed peanuts.
"This tragic oversight has led to the recall of the Vanilla Florentine Cookies from Stew Leonard’s stores in Danbury and Newington, CT, for the period of November 6 – December 31, 2023.
"Preliminary investigation has revealed that Órla’s death occurred due to the gross negligence and reckless conduct of the manufacturer and/or sellers who failed to properly identify the contents of the cookie on the packaging.
"This failure in proper disclosure has led to this devastating yet preventable outcome."
Attorney Marijo D. Adminey said in a statement to the New York Post on Thursday that an EpiPen was used, but Órla's allergy was so severe that it was not effective.
Órla's family is requesting donations for the Kevin Bell Trust Foundation, which the family says "will be founding Órla's repatriation to Ireland and then to her family's home in the United Kingdom."
More than $4,800 had been raised for the Newry-based charity as of Thursday evening.
The NYC dance studio Steps on Broadway is also hosting a spotlight class in memory of Órla on Saturday, with 100% of the proceeds going to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust.
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In 2022, Órla, a former Irish dancer with Phoenix Academy of Irish Dancing, told the Lancashire Telegraph that she had moved to New York in 2018 after being awarded a scholarship by the prestigious Ailey School of American Dance Theatre.
After graduating in 2021, Órla's career began to blossom when she featured in New York Fashion Week as well as Vogue Magazine's September 2021 edition.
In her obituary, Órla is described by her family as a "bright soul" who "made the most of her time with us on this earth, living each day as a celebration."
"Órla Baxendale was an embodiment of enthusiasm, strength, and beauty. Known for her quirky character and boundless love for those around her, she was a source of joy and inspiration to everyone. Her presence was a constant reminder to live life to its fullest, a lesson she embraced wholeheartedly and urged others to adopt.
"A woman of many talents, Órla's charisma and vibrant spirit came to life through her work with The Alvin Ailey School, Nemacolin Holiday Village, Steps on Broadway, The Ride, Club Pilates, English with an Accent, MOMIX, and many others.
"Her passion for dance extended well beyond a single discipline as she was an exquisite ballet, contemporary, and Irish step dancer. Each endeavor she undertook became a testament to her dedication and passion, leaving a lasting impact on many lives.
"Her legacy is one of magic and artistry, a unique blend that she brought into everything she did. The memories she bestowed upon us will continue to sparkle with her infectious zest for life and the beautiful art she created."
Órla's siblings Niamh, Ciara, and Rowan said in a statement on social media: "May you continue to dance among the stars our little star."
The Baxendale family has requested that those wishing to honor Órla's memory contribute to the "Celebration of Life Fundraiser" to benefit the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust.
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