Coroner reveals what killed eight-year-old Sydney Weston who suddenly fell ill on a flight to Chicago
A coroner has revealed what killed an eight-year-old US girl who suddenly fell ill on a flight to Chicago.
Sydney Weston became “ill and unresponsive” on June 13 on a SkyWest flight, which then made an emergency landing in Peoria, Illinois.
Sydney was rushed to a local hospital but was pronounced dead soon after.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Peoria County coroner’s office on Thursday revealed Sydney died from complications associated with an underlying, undiagnosed autoimmune disorder.
A post-mortem examination had found her death was caused by “complications of chronic primary adrenalitis in the setting of multiple infections, including strep and enterovirus”.
“Infections can be associated with precipitating an acute adrenal insufficiency crisis in the presence of chronic adrenal disease,” the coroner’s office said.
Adrenal insufficiency occurs when the body does not make enough of certain hormones.
The coroner’s office also said Sydney had duodenitis, which is inflammation in the first part of the small intestine, and thyroiditis, which is inflammation of the thyroid gland.
“The associated diagnoses of chronic adrenalitis, duodenitis, and thyroiditis are suggestive of an underlying autoimmune disorder,” it said.
“Our continued thoughts and prayers are with the Weston family during this difficult time.”
Sydney, from Carl Junction in Missouri, was travelling with her family on holiday when she became sick soon after the flight left Joplin, Missouri.
By the time the plane made an emergency landing in Peoria, Sydney was not breathing and had no pulse.
She was rushed to hospital where medical staff tied to save her but were unsuccessful.
In an obituary, Sydney’s family said she had been looking forward to celebrating her ninth birthday on June 21 — just a week after her death.
They described her as a “ray of sunshine” who had a love of the water.
“The pool was her place to be – we called her the fish,” they wrote.
“Armed with her flippers and goggles, she could swim underwater better than anyone else. Her favourite was being tossed through the air by daddy.”
Her family said Sydney would be remembered for bringing joy to everyone she met.
“Our hearts are heavy. She was our baby girl and we celebrate her beautiful life,” they said.
Originally published on 7NEWS
