Stirling woman raising funds to fight sepsis

Lea Haney is taking part in the Kiltwalk fundraising event later this month, in memory of her sister who died from sepsis in 2021.

Lea Haney, along with her aunt Babs McCartney, is taking part in the Scotland's Kiltwalk event in memory of her sister Elaine who passed away from sepsis in May 2021 at the age of 37. 

Lea and Babs are among a number of supporters who are joining Sepsis Research FEAT in the event.

Approximately 5 people in the UK are killed every hour in the UK from Sepsis. 

Sepsis is caused by the body’s response to an infection. Your immune system protects you from illnesses and infections but sometimes it can overreact, triggering widespread inflammation which can lead to shock, multiple organ failure and death. The biological processes that cause sepsis are not understood, and this is why we need more research.

Sepsis is a medical emergency. Around 250,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with sepsis every year, of which around 50,000 die. Sepsis is the primary cause of preventable death in the world.

Key symptoms include: 

• Confusion 

• Not passing as much urine as normal

• Very high or low temperature

• Uncontrolled shivering

• Cold or blotchy arms and legs

Colin Graham, Chief Operating Officer at Sepsis Research FEAT, said:

“A huge thank you to Lea and Babs for so generously raising money to help Sepsis Research FEAT’s work. Fundraising events like the Kiltwalk play a vital role in the fight against sepsis. As Sepsis Research FEAT marks its 10th anniversary this year, we’re asking you to consider joining Lea and Babs in being part of our birthday celebrations and raising money to support an important cause."