Australia’s Ally Langdon was visibly emotional as she shared the heartbreaking story of a young family forced to make the devastating decision to end their daughter’s life after a tragic incident linked to a dangerous viral trend. Andrea and Paul Haynes, parents of 13-year-old Esra Haynes, bravely opened up on A Current Affair about the unimaginable pain they endured following the loss of their beloved daughter.
Esra’s death was the tragic result of “chroming,” a hazardous activity involving inhaling toxic chemicals from everyday household products such as deodorant sprays, paint, hairspray, or permanent markers to achieve a brief euphoric high. This dangerous behavior, often glamorized or spread through social media, has been responsible for numerous cases of serious injury and death, especially among vulnerable teenagers.
Described by her local community and teammates as “determined, fun, cheeky, and talented,” Esra was an active young athlete. She co-captained the Montrose Football Netball Club and competed in BMX racing alongside her brothers. Her dedication and leadership helped her team secure a national aerobics championship in Queensland. She was a vibrant, spirited girl full of promise and joy.
On the evening of March 31, what was supposed to be a typical sleepover at a friend’s house turned into a nightmare. Esra, like many teens caught up in the viral trend, inhaled aerosol deodorant in an attempt to experience the high. The act quickly turned fatal as Esra went into cardiac arrest, causing severe brain damage that would prove irreversible.