Colleagues across DHU will soon be taking part in the Sepsis Savvy Walk organised by the UK Sepsis Trust, as we rally together for a cause that strikes close to home – the battle against sepsis.
This national initiative, taking place on the weekends of 16th/17th March and 23rd/24th March 2024, aims to not only raise vital funds but also to spread sepsis awareness across various locations in the UK.
We spoke to Non-Clinical Pathways Trainer Gemma Jesson, who bravely shared her heartbreaking story with us about the devasting impact Sepsis can have on people’s lives.
"I'm participating in the Birmingham Sepsis Savvy Walk this year, and for me, fundraising is more than just a task – it's at the heart of our fight against sepsis.
This cause hits incredibly close to home for me. Earlier this year, we tragically lost the head of our family, our beloved mother and Nan, Jill, to sepsis. It was a devastating blow that left us reeling with grief. Now, as a family, we're determined to raise awareness and honour her memory by completing this walk in her name.
“For those who have experienced sepsis firsthand, you know just how swiftly it can escalate. Its symptoms can mimic those of common illnesses, but the reality is far more serious. By raising awareness, we hope to spare others from the pain and suffering our family has endured.
“Our journey with sepsis began like any other. Over Christmas, we all felt under the weather with what seemed like a seasonal cough and cold. My mother, despite being 73 and typically healthy, seemed to hang onto her cough a bit longer than the rest of us. However, she assured us she was on the mend. We spent time together as a family on Friday, January 5th, with no alarming signs. She was her usual self, chatting with her grandchildren and going about her day.
“Then, suddenly, on January 6th, everything changed. She woke the family up in the early hours with severe respiratory distress and slurred speech. Within hours, her condition deteriorated rapidly, and by 8:15 a.m., she was gone. It was later confirmed that a lower respiratory tract infection had triggered the sepsis.
“In memory of my incredible mother, I've set up a fundraising page. If you feel moved to contribute, every donation brings us closer to preventing another family from experiencing this heartache. Together, let's make a difference in the fight against sepsis.”