Cassie was five—bright, energetic, and just starting school—when she developed mild symptoms of what doctors called a common virus. A sore throat turned into a hoarse voice, and within days, she couldn’t speak at all. Her parents, Jasmine and Justin, were told to wait it out.

Despite growing concerns, Cassie was sent home twice. No tests were run. No antibiotics prescribed. What doctors missed was a treatable bacterial infection: Group A Streptococcus, or strep A.

As Cassie’s breathing worsened, her parents rushed her to the ER again. Even then, the focus remained on viruses. Only after Cassie collapsed at home and was airlifted to Westmead Children’s Hospital did doctors perform a throat swab. By then, it was too late.

On August 28, 2023, Cassie was pronounced brain dead. The infection—easily treatable with antibiotics—had gone undiagnosed. Her story is tragically common: Strep A affects hundreds of millions each year and can escalate quickly in children.

Cassie’s family chose to donate her organs on Jersey Day, saving three other young lives. While grieving, her parents are now raising awareness: Trust your instincts. Ask for tests. Push for answers.

A simple swab could have saved Cassie. Her loss is a painful reminder that preventable doesn’t always mean prevented.