On Sunday 10 April 2022, I will be running the Brighton Marathon (my first) to raise money for the UK Sepsis Trust, a cause very close to my heart.

In England, sepsis: 

• has a mortality rate of over 20% (septic shock, over 50%); 
• is on the rise - in 2019 sepsis hospital admissions had doubled in three years;
• kills annually, on average, more than breast, bowel and prostate cancer combined;
• is the biggest direct cause of death in pregnancy;
• patients are five times more likely to die than someone who has a heart attack; and
• survivors have a 40% chance of suffering permanent life-changing physical and/or mental after effects.

The UK Sepsis Trust has a mission to save lives and improve outcomes for survivors of sepsis by raising public awareness, instigating political change, educating healthcare professionals and providing support for those affected. Early detection and treatment of sepsis greatly increases the chance of a patient surviving (by up to 50%) - it is truly a no brainer. 

A missed sepsis diagnosis has turned my family's life upside down for the last two years and by raising money and awareness for the UK Sepsis Trust I hope that even one other family can avoid this pain. Any donations are hugely appreciated - just £5 can pay for 10 families with a relative in ICU to receive an information support pack and my goal of £1000 can provide a hospital with staff training and educational resources.

If you fancy a day trip to the seaside, I'd also be incredibly grateful for any support on the day - most of you will know that I'm not a natural runner!

Thank you,

Al x

HOW TO SPOT SEPSIS IN ADULTS

Slurred speech or confusion

Extreme shivering or muscle pain

Passing no urine

Severe breathlessness

It feels like you're going to die

Skin mottled or discoloured