Tributes paid to young Irish woman dies after suspected allergic reaction from drinking coffee in Japan
TRIBUTES have been paid to a young Irish woman who died after suffering a suspected allergic reaction from drinking a coffee.
Aika Doheny, who is in her 20s, had travelled to Japan on holiday and to visit relatives when she became seriously ill.
It is understood the student, the daughter of an Irish father and Japanese mother, consumed a soya-based coffee and had an adverse reaction.
Immediate efforts were made to ease the allergic reaction with the use of an Epipen, with Aika then rushed to a nearby hospital in Tokyo.
The Kilkenny woman spent several weeks in ICU in Japan before being repatriated back to Ireland.
After being flown home to St James’s Hospital in Dublin for further treatment, it has now emerged Aika passed away last Thursday.
Ms Doheny was remembered as “a bubbly” former student of Presentation College in Kilkenny.
The young woman was studying at the National University of Ireland Galway to become a research assistant.
Tragic Aika, of Greensbridge Street, Kilkenny city, was also described as a talented swimmer
As throngs of tributes poured in, Kilkenny Swimming Club said: “So very sorry to learn of the passing of Aika.
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“She was a member of Kilkenny Swim Team for many years and is fondly remembered by her teammates and coaches. Sincere condolences to her family at this very difficult time.”
Shattered pals who were part of Aika’s swim team told of her “bright energy.”
One said: “She was a wonderful friend and had such a bright energy, she made swimming training on the darkest of mornings seem easy.”
Another said: “It is with a heavy heart that we write this message. So saddened to hear of the passing of Aika.
“A beautiful young girl, taken too soon. Praying for you all, especially Mayumi, Takuya and Paul at this awful time.
“May Aika rest in peace. Never to be forgotten, from old swimming friends.”
Aika’s funeral will take place on Saturday at 10.30am in St John’s Church in Kilkenny and will be followed by a private cremation.
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The Department of Foreign Affairs had previously been liaising with the family in Ireland after Aika fell ill.
A Department spokesperson said: “As with all consular cases, the Department does not comment on the details of any specific case.”