Tragedy as 12yo dies from gastro two days after being sent home from hospital

“You don't think that gastro can potentially kill - especially someone so young and so healthy,” says South Australian step-mum Phoebe. 

The parents of a 12-year-old girl are in mourning after their daughter was discharged from a hospital with a stomach ache, only to die a couple of days later. 

Milla Foster attended Kapunda Hospital in South Australia on October 17, complaining of a sore tummy and other mild symptoms. 

She and her parents were seen by a doctor for roughly 90 minutes before she was diagnosed with gastroenteritis, better known as gastro, and sent home with medication. 

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The 12yo was sent home from the hospital with gastro medication, but died two days later. Source: GoFundMe

12yo died two days after being treated for gastro at SA hospital

Her condition appeared to be improving after she visited the hospital, giving her parents a sense of relief. 

But two days later, things took a tragic turn for the worse, and Milla died. 

“You don't think that gastro can potentially kill - especially someone so young and so healthy,” Phoebe, Milla’s step-mum, told 9News. 

Milla is remembered as a “beautiful” and a free spirit who loved Taylor Swift. “She was a really, really good girl,” dad Shannon said. “I’m waiting to wake up and just see her.” 

The grieving family have set up a GoFundMe page to raise funds in need for Milla’s funeral. 

“We have been deeply impacted by her loss and are reaching out to anyone within our community to help us with the unexpected funds we will be facing within the next week or so,” the family said. 

“We miss you so much Milla and love you always and forever.” 

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Milla was a "really, really good girl." Source: 9News

“Listen to your gut … even if doctors say you might be paranoid”

Gastro is a common condition that usually leaves people with diarrhoea, cramps, and nausea, sometimes resulting in dehydration, vomiting and a fever. 

Typically, gastro symptoms will last for one to three days and are usually treatable with hydration and rest.

But Milla’s parents are now urging others to pay attention to the symptoms and to trust their instincts if something doesn’t feel right. 

“Even if the doctors say you might be paranoid or if you’re just over-cautious — just listen to (your gut) because it’s there for a reason,” step-mum Phoebe said. 

South Australian Health Minister Chris Picton said his “heartfelt sympathies go out to Milla’s family”.” 

“I will ensure that [Kapunda] hospital and SA Health staff fully cooperate with a coronial investigation,” he said.

Originally published as Tragedy as 12yo dies from gastro two days after being sent home from hospital