Coroner Investigates Death of Toddler; Parents Demand Change in Regional Healthcare

Cowra Hospital Under Investigation Following Death of Two-Year-Old from Sepsis A coroner's investigation is underway in Cowra, Australia, following the death of two-year-old Pippa White from septic shock in June 2022. Pippa's parents, Anna and Brock White, are seeking answers and changes to regional healthcare after their daughter was assessed and sent home from the emergency department at Cowra Hospital just one day before her death. "We have such a beautiful rhythm as a family. It's completely just shattered us." Anna White shared in an interview, expressing the devastating impact of their loss. Pippa's mother took her to the hospital with a fever, vomiting, and a heart rate of 171 beats per minute—a potential indicator of sepsis. Despite these symptoms, Pippa was sent home, where her condition worsened. By the time doctors realized she needed urgent treatment in Sydney, it was too late. The coroner's investigation will examine the care Pippa received at Cowra Hospital and determine if her death was preventable. The family hopes this investigation will lead to improvements in regional healthcare to prevent similar tragedies in the future.