Neglect and Misguided Healing: Tragedy Strikes Texas Family

In a heartbreaking incident in Texas, a 12-year-old girl lost her life due to her parents’ failure to seek timely medical attention for severe injuries. Instead, they attempted to nurse her back to health with smoothies.

Tragic Neglect

Miranda Sipps, an active cheerleader, suffered life-threatening injuries on Thursday. However, for the next four days, her mother and stepfather failed to provide her with medical assistance, despite her unconscious state.

According to Sheriff David Soward, Sipps was “not talking” and could only flutter her eyes and move her hands slightly. They chose to leave her on a pallet in their home.

Misguided Treatment

In an attempt to heal Sipps’s injuries, her parents gave her smoothies with vitamins. However, Soward emphasized that “somebody who is unconscious is not able to swallow.”

As Sipps’s condition worsened, her mother finally called 911 on Monday evening. However, she chose to meet emergency responders on the highway, outside her home.

Legal Consequences

Sipps’s mother, Denise Balbaneda, and stepfather, Gerald Gonzales, were arrested and charged with a first-degree felony for injury to a child by omission.

Investigators believe the couple avoided seeking medical attention to prevent law enforcement from discovering other issues in their home.

Investigation and Aftermath

The exact cause of Sipps’s injuries remains under investigation. The final autopsy report is pending.

Sipps would have turned 13 later this month. Her tragic death has shocked the community and highlighted the importance of seeking professional medical help in times of crisis.

Conclusion

This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the potentially devastating consequences of neglect and misguided attempts at healing. It emphasizes the crucial role of seeking timely medical attention, especially when dealing with life-threatening injuries.