My name is Cathriona Flanagan and just over six months ago myself and three other fantastic ladies set up NESA (North East Sepsis Awareness).

I lost my beautiful mother Angela in 2018 from sepsis and not a day goes by that I dont think about her. There is a huge void in our lives. She was only 60 years old and died suddenly (24 hours) from this awful condition which continues to kill people, this is such a preventable condition once the signs and symptoms are recognised early. TIME is key when it comes to Sepsis, it does not discriminate. You have to have an infection to develop Sepsis. "Sepsis is a serious condition that happens when the body's immune system has an extreme response to an infection. The body's reaction causes damage to its own tissues and organs."

Sinead also lost her beautiful sister in law Sarah to Sepsis she was only 34 years old.

11 weeks prior to her death she had given birth to two beautiful twin babies Lilly and Pj. This was very preventable if she had recieved early intervention she would be still with her husband Patrick and much loved children.

Hannah's daughter developed sepsis from pyelonephritis and was very ill. Thankfully Sophie got through this however she has Post Sepsis Syndrome which is not recognised by the WHO (world health organisation)

There is no care available to people who are dealing with PSS.

Our goal is to ensure this is recognised and liase with the minister for health to introduce post sepsis clinics.

We have come togather to educate the people in the North East Region about the signs and symptoms of sepsis. We have received incredible feedback from our talks and it is already having an impact.

We want to continue our good work in our communities.

This is why I decided to complete the "Sea to Summit" which takes place in Westport on the 8th of November 2025. It consists of a total distance of 31km, 4km Run, 8km cycle, 4km mountain run (Croagh Patrick), 11km cycle and finally a 4km run to the finish line.

All funds raised will ensure we can continue our good work of providing information and financially support those who have been affected by Sepsis.

Thank you for your support.

NESA

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