Tributes have poured in after a Melbourne Year 8 student died in a chroming incident.
Lilydale High School student Esra Haynes, 13, suffered from a cardiac arrest and died on Saturday after inhaling dangerous chemicals.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Thirteen-year-old dies in tragic chroming incident.
Watch the latest news and stream for free on 7plus >>
She was co-captain of the under-14 girls team at the Montrose Football Netball Club, a dancer and a BMX rider.
Chroming is also called huffing and involves inhaling metallic paints, solvents, petrol, aerosol cans and other similar household chemicals which then act as depressants, slowing down messages between the body and brain and creating the sense of a short-lived “high”.
However, there are myriad side effects and the dangerous act can cause an irregular heart beat and chest pains, and longer term it can lead to brain, liver and kidney damage, among other problems, the federal government’s healthdirect website warns.
Following her death, Esra’s parents Paul and Andrea Haynes warned of the dangers of chroming and committed to raising awareness of the issue.
“We want to help other children not fall into the silly trap of doing this silly thing,” Paul told The Herald Sun.
“It’s unquestionable that this will be our crusade.
“No matter how much you lead a horse to water, anyone can drag them away.
“It’s not something she would have done on her own.
“We will be living for our daughter for the rest of our lives.”
Others also mourned for Esra and paid their own tributes to the teen.
“Esra Murray Haynes. My best friend,” friend Abbey Passick wrote on Facebook.
“The one girl who could put a smile on anyone’s face no matter what. There wasn’t one day in the past three years you’ve not made my day by your contagious laugh and gorgeous smile.
“My heart aches and it doesn’t feel real knowing I’ll have to say goodbye to you, Esra. (You’re) so young. You (were) gone (too) soon.
“I’ll stay trying to make you proud. And continue doing the things that made you happy. I endlessly love and miss you, Esra.”
“Rest In Paradise my love. Forever 13.”
The Montrose Football Netball Club also posted an emotional message following news of Esra’s death.
“(The club) is heartbroken at the news of the passing of one of our own, Esra Haynes,” the Montrose Football Netball Club wrote on its Facebook page.
“Esra came to our club last year, she played in the under-12 girls team where she fitted in seamlessly.
“In her short time at the club, Esra went from strength to strength as a leader on the field, and at training.
“Esra was named as one of the co-captains for the under-14 girls team for 2023.
“Esra was determined, fun, cheeky and talented, she will be greatly missed by her teammates, coaches, and the wider community of our Club.
“Our sincere sympathy and heartfelt condolences to Esra’s family, our support and love are with you all.
“Rest easy and fly high angel.”
Liberal MP Jason Wood wrote: “Tributes are flowing for Esra Haynes, 13, who attended Lilydale High School following her tragic death over the weekend.”
“The community is mourning the loss of a determined and kind year 8 student.
“My thoughts and prayers are with her friends, family and wider community during this very difficult time.”
French bulldogs with severe genetic deformities rescued from living in squalor at WA property.
Source: 7news.com.au
