Tragic Loss of 13-Year-Old Esra Haynes: A Wake-Up Call About ‘Chroming’

• 2025-04-12
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In a heart-wrenching incident that has shaken the community, 13-year-old Esra Haynes lost her life after a sleepover with friends. The cause was later identified as 'chroming'—a hazardous practice involving inhaling household chemicals for recreational purposes. Esra's story serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking in seemingly innocent social gatherings.​

On March 31, Esra attended a sleepover at a friend's house. During the gathering, she and her friends engaged in 'chroming,' inhaling aerosol deodorant to achieve a high. This activity led to Esra going into cardiac arrest. Initially, her friends mistook her condition for a panic attack. However, upon arrival, paramedics informed Esra's mother, Andrea, that her daughter had been 'chroming,' a term she was unfamiliar with at the time.

Esra was rushed to the hospital and placed on life support. Despite medical efforts, eight hours later, doctors informed Andrea and her husband, Paul, that Esra's brain had suffered irreversible damage. Faced with this devastating news, the family made the agonizing decision to turn off life support. Paul described the experience as "the most difficult, traumatic time any parent could go through."

'Chroming' refers to the inhalation of volatile substances found in common household products like deodorants, paints, and markers to achieve a quick high. This practice is particularly prevalent among teenagers due to the easy accessibility of these products. However, the risks are severe, including:​

• Seizures​

• Heart attacks​

• Suffocation​

• Sudden sniffing death

• Coma​

• Organ failure​

Since 2009, 'chroming' has been responsible for multiple youth fatalities worldwide.

Esra's parents, devastated by their loss, are now committed to raising awareness about the dangers of 'chroming.' They emphasize the importance of open discussions between parents and children regarding the risks associated with inhalant abuse. Paul urges, "We need to get this information out so kids hear it first-hand, not through friends or social media."

The tragic death of Esra Haynes highlights the critical need for awareness and education about the dangers of inhalant abuse. By understanding the risks and maintaining open dialogues with our children, we can work towards preventing such senseless losses in the future.​

Share Esra's story with friends and family to spread awareness about the dangers of 'chroming.' Engage in conversations with your children about the risks associated with inhalant abuse and encourage them to make safe, informed choices.​