Australia’s Ally Langdon fought back tears while speaking with grieving parents Andrea and Paul Haynes, who shared the heartbreaking story of their 13-year-old daughter Esra, who died after trying a viral social media trend called chroming.
Chroming involves inhaling toxic chemicals to get high and led to Esra suffering cardiac arrest at a sleepover after sniffing aerosol deodorant. Despite paramedics’ efforts and eight days on life support, her brain was declared irreparably damaged.
Described as “determined, fun, cheeky and talented,” Esra was a promising athlete and co-captain of her netball team. Her devastated parents recalled receiving the call no parent wants: “Come get your daughter.” They made the painful decision to say goodbye surrounded by family.
Langdon, a mother herself, was visibly emotional during the interview. Esra’s siblings, friends, and wider community are shattered by the loss.
The Haynes family had never heard of chroming before Esra’s death. Now, they’re determined to raise awareness about its dangers and urge parents to talk to their children.
“Had we known, we would’ve had that conversation at the kitchen table,” Paul said. “It’s not just about saving your child—it’s about saving someone else’s too.”
Chroming has claimed multiple young lives across Australia and worldwide. The Hayneses hope sharing Esra’s story will prevent others from suffering the same fate.