Approximately 50,000 people die from sepsis every year in the UK. Worldwide, sepsis takes more lives per year than breast, bowel and prostate cancer combined. The charity Sepsis Research FEAT is asking people to help them change this.

Sepsis Research FEAT is the only UK charity fundraising to support research to help find improved treatments for sepsis, while also working to raise awareness. It was founded by Craig Stobo in memory of his wife, Dr Fiona Agnew, and their unborn daughter, Isla, who died from sepsis in 2012.

Sepsis occurs when the body’s response to an infection spirals rapidly out of control, injuring its own tissues and organs which can result in multiple organ failure and death. The biological processes that cause sepsis are not understood and that is why more research is needed. The primary research Sepsis Research FEAT funds is the world-leading GenOMICC study at the University of Edinburgh’s Roslin Institute which researches how our genes can influence the body’s response to serious conditions such as sepsis.

The charity is also working to raise awareness so that more people can recognise these 5 key symptoms of sepsis and know when to seek urgent medical attention:

1. High/Low temperature
2. Uncontrolled shivering
3. Confusion
4. Passing little urine
5. Blotchy or cold arms and legs

A huge part of Sepsis Research FEAT’s awareness raising work happens thanks to the sepsis stories of people who have been affected by the condition. Anyone with experience of sepsis who wants to share their story is invited to do so by getting in touch with the charity or sharing their story online using the hashtag #SepsisResearchFEAT

Those who have not been personally affected by sepsis can also help save lives by talking to friends and family about sepsis and the symptoms to look out for. Fundraising is another great way to spread the word about this condition while also supporting vital research.

Colin Graham, Chief Operating Officer at Sepsis Research FEAT, said: “It seems unthinkable that in 2021 there still exists a condition that can kill a previously healthy adult in hours. Please get involved in any way you can by raising funds for sepsis research and spreading the word about this deadly condition to help save lives. Whatever support you can give will be greatly appreciated and will play an important part in our fight against sepsis.”

For more information about Sepsis Research FEAT and how to get involved, visit www.sepsisresearch.org.uk

 

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