Teen who survived sepsis says relearning everyday tasks

In December 2022, a 16-year-old girl named Sophie Lanigan from Blanchardstown, Dublin, contracted a life-threatening case of sepsis. Her mother noticed she had a high temperature and took her to the doctor for an examination. The GP became worried and called an ambulance as Sophie's condition rapidly worsened. She was transported to Temple Street Children's Hospital where she was diagnosed with sepsis due to a bacterial infection.

Following this, she was administered blood transfusions and placed on a ventilator, which ultimately led to the amputation of all four of her limbs in January 2023. Sophie had to undergo extensive physiotherapy to relearn basic daily tasks such as walking, writing, and other everyday activities. She emphasized the importance of recognizing the symptoms of sepsis and seeking prompt medical attention, as the condition claims around 3,000 lives in Ireland annually.

The HSE has recently launched a five-year strategy aimed at improving sepsis detection, treatment, and support for survivors. Key symptoms of sepsis include slurred speech, confusion, drowsiness, extreme shivering, muscle aches, and fever. The strategy focuses on reducing avoidable cases, particularly among high-risk groups such as the young, elderly, immunosuppressed individuals, and pregnant women. It also plans to implement vaccination programs and public awareness campaigns.