Caleb Chabolla, a 9-year-old boy, experienced severe injuries after attempting a dangerous viral trend involving a gel-based toy, the NeeDoh Nice Cube, according to his mother. The incident occurred on January 20, when Caleb, inspired by a friend’s suggestion, tried to microwave the toy to make it more pliable before heading to school. His mother, Whitney Grubb, was unaware of his actions as she warmed up her car in the garage.
Suddenly, she was alarmed by a scream from the kitchen. Upon investigating, she found that the toy had exploded when Caleb opened the microwave, resulting in second-degree burns on one side of his face and on his hands. Grubb initially attempted to rinse the substance off in the shower but soon realized it wasn’t effective and rushed her son to the emergency room. Caleb was later transferred to Loyola Medicine’s Burn Center, where he received treatment. Thankfully, he saw an ophthalmologist for his swollen eye, but fortunately, his vision remained unaffected.
The NeeDoh Nice Cube, marketed as a sensory toy for stretching and squishing, clearly comes with a safety warning on its website advising against heating, freezing, or microwaving. Despite the serious burns Caleb endured, he is reported to be recovering at home and is expected to return to school later this week.
Health professionals have raised alarms about such trends, emphasizing their dangers to children who may not fully grasp the potential harm. Paula Petersen, a nurse at the burn center, noted that Caleb is fortunate not to have sustained more severe injuries. This incident marks him as the fourth child seen at the facility due to similar circumstances linked to this particular trend, highlighting a troubling pattern.
Experts urge parents to closely monitor household items that may pose risks, including certain toys and commonly used kitchen items such as hot liquids. As the alarming trend continues, it is crucial for families to remain vigilant to prevent such preventable injuries in the future.