A father is sharing his family’s painful story in hopes it spares others the same heartbreak. Gary Dunion, 41, says his four-year-old daughter, Sienna, is now in a coma after a rare flu-related complication left her with suspected brain damage.

Until recently, Sienna was a healthy, playful child. She had a mild fever and seemed tired. Nothing more. Her parents treated it like a common cold. Then everything changed.

One afternoon, Sienna fell asleep on the sofa. She did not wake up the same. Doctors rushed her to hospital and discovered severe swelling in her brain. Specialists later diagnosed acute necrotising encephalitis, a rare condition triggered when the immune system overreacts to a virus such as the flu.

Now, Sienna lies unconscious. Doctors cannot say when she will wake or what abilities she may regain. Her father fears she may never walk, talk, or laugh as she once did.

Gary now speaks openly about his regret. He admits vaccine hesitancy stopped him from giving Sienna the flu shot. He says that decision haunts him daily. While vaccination cannot prevent every case, he believes it may reduce risk.

Today, Gary focuses on two things. First, he stays by his daughter’s side. Second, he urges parents to vaccinate and stay alert to sudden changes in their children’s health.

His message is simple and heartfelt. Rare does not mean impossible. And awareness can save lives.