What began as a way to cope with post-lockdown anxiety has turned into a lifelong health challenge for 17-year-old Brianne Cullen. Like many teens, Brianne turned to vaping at just 14, using a $25 vape each month in secret. Her mother, Christie Martin, had no idea — until Brianne’s health began to noticeably deteriorate. Persistent coughs, sore throats, and recurring illnesses were warning signs that something wasn’t right. Then came the terrifying phone call: Brianne was gasping for air, unable to breathe. Rushed to the ER, she was diagnosed with bronchiolitis obliterans, more commonly known as “popcorn lung” — a rare and irreversible lung condition
“Popcorn lung” damages the smallest airways in the lungs, leading to symptoms like chronic coughing, wheezing, fatigue, and shortness of breath. The condition gained notoriety after workers in a microwave popcorn factory developed it from inhaling diacetyl — a chemical used for artificial butter flavoring, which has also been found in some vape liquids. While doctors told Martin the disease was caught early, the long-term outlook remains uncertain. Brianne has been prescribed an inhaler and is now adjusting to life with a permanent condition caused by what many still perceive as a harmless habit.
Now, four months after her diagnosis, Brianne has quit vaping — and her mom is speaking out. Christie Martin is urging other parents not to turn a blind eye or judge those in similar situations. “Shaming moms won’t save kids,” she insists. “Awareness will.” Drawing parallels to how cigarettes were once marketed as healthy, she warns that vaping’s true risks are still being uncovered. Her plea is simple but urgent: don’t assume your child is immune, and don’t wait for a diagnosis to start asking questions.
