A four-year-old girl in Corby, Northamptonshire, is currently fighting for her life after developing a rare and serious brain condition linked to the flu. Sienna Dunion was admitted to the hospital following a rapid decline in her health, culminating in a diagnosis of Acute Necrotising Encephalitis (ANE). This aggressive condition is extremely rare and can be triggered by viral infections such as the flu or COVID-19.
In November, Sienna first complained of feeling unusually cold. Her parents, Gary and Angelina Dunion, initially dismissed these concerns as typical childhood complaints. However, after noticing a mild fever, they decided to keep her home from school. Just days later, Gary found Sienna unresponsive, prompting an urgent rush to the hospital.
Upon arrival, doctors placed Sienna in an induced coma after her condition worsened. An MRI scan revealed the devastating diagnosis of ANE. This condition leads to severe inflammation in the brain and can result in significant neurological damage. Medics indicated that the flu was a contributing factor, highlighting the strain the NHS has faced in recent weeks due to rising flu cases.
On November 22, 2023, Sienna underwent emergency surgery after tests showed dangerously high lactate levels in her blood. To save her life, doctors removed approximately 60 percent of her intestines. Gary, 41, expressed his heartbreak, fearing that he may never again hear her “infectious belly laugh” or see her play as she once did.
“I can’t comprehend how a really funny, caring, and healthy four-year-old just three weeks ago is now fighting for her life,” Gary said. He is grappling with guilt over the decision not to vaccinate Sienna against the flu.
In an effort to raise awareness about ANE and cover the extensive costs associated with Sienna’s treatment, Gary has set up a GoFundMe page. He emphasized the importance of flu vaccinations for children, urging other parents to prioritize immunization.
Gary shared, “There needs to be serious medical studies around what triggers ANE and what the treatment options are. We didn’t give her the flu jab due to concerns we heard, and now we are left with this guilt.”
Sienna has begun plasma exchange treatment, a procedure aimed at cleansing her blood, but her journey remains uncertain. Medical experts estimate it may take three to six months for her to leave the hospital, where she will require extensive rehabilitation.
Gary revealed, “When Sienna wakes up, she may not be the same girl we knew. She could have permanent disabilities.” Despite the grim prognosis, he remains determined to advocate for his daughter and ensure she receives the best care possible.
He concluded, “Raising awareness and funds for her treatment is my way of trying to do something for her. This is a message all parents need to hear—no one is immune from such rare conditions, and vaccinations are critical.”
