Cassie Sutton was just five years old — full of life, starting school, and thriving. But what began as a simple sore tDespite multiple doctor visits, Cassie was told she only had a cold and was sent home. The truth was far more dangerous, and a quick, simple test could have saved her life.

It all started like so many other childhood illnesses: a sore throat and hoarse voice.But within three days, 5-year-old Cassie had completely lost her voice, leaving her mother Jasmine and stepfather Justin deeply worried. Cassie wasn’t acting like herself, Jasmine recalled.

Concerned, the Australian parents took Cassie to a local doctor. The diagnosis was quick and seemingly straightforward — a viral infection. The family was told to simply wait it out, believing rest and time would heal their little girl.

But Cassie’s condition didn’t improve. Instead, it worsened.

Breathing became a fight for survival
As the days passed, Cassie’s breathing grew more labored, resembling what Justin described as “an asthma attack or the labored breath of someone with emphysema.” Alarmed, the family rushed her to the emergency room.hroat quickly spiraled into a heartbreaking tragedy that could have been avoided.