Did you know that you have the power to stop sepsis and save lives? Knowledge is power! Just knowing that sepsis can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time can get a person to lifesaving treatment within the golden hours. The longer antibiotics are not used, the higher the possibility of disability, amputations, and death.
So, because literally anything can cause a septic reaction, it is difficult to diagnose. In fact, I was misdiagnosed for my first two infections. My trifecta included a ruptured appendix, a medical procedure, and the good ole basic flu.
I have been disabled by sepsis since 2011. 14 years from my 1st infection, and 6 years from my last, I am now healthy enough to consider returning to work. However, employers aren’t keen to take a chance on a candidate with a 14-year gap on their resume.
That was the inspiration for this blog. I wanted to subsidize my disability payments by becoming an Amazon Associate. For every purchase made through my links, I receive a small commission. It doesn’t increase any costs to you; it just helps a middle-aged lady on disability.
Here’s the list geared to survivors of any critical illness:
shannonmckenney.com/buy-now-on-amazon-essentials-for-post-sepsis-recovery/
I write about my recovery journey, the effects of being chronically ill on self-esteem, and intimate relationships.
Light it up Pink!!!
Now I celebrate Sepsis Awareness like I used to celebrate my birthday; for the entire month of September. On September 13th, you’re going to see landmarks around the world lit up pink to raise awareness for this unpredictable syndrome that still has a mortality rate of 20% worldwide!!!
What is Sepsis?
My Why
I was not prepared for the psychological recovery that follows any critical illness. I’ve been in therapy, had a mental health crisis, and am just finding my confidence again. It’s no wonder, because every time I would recover, I would get sick again. I would just reach the sunlit surface of the ocean only to be dragged to the bottom again. This is what’s behind the imagery I use on my website. It’s hopeful that you break the surface or find the light at the end of the tunnel.
I started this blog as a side hustle, but I am finding it’s more healing that I needed. I don’t know if you’re like me, but I thought I’d get sick, I’ll recover, and life goes on. Sepsis wasn’t like that for me. Now, I write my blog posts based on whatever I need to release from my soul.
Being hospitalized is traumatic, so many survivors suffer from PTSD. We were too busy surviving to fully acknowledge the fear as to what was happening to us. Unfortunately, those emotions don’t evaporate; they still live in your body. Every piece that I write acknowledges my pain and helps to release it. It makes me lighter.
Meet my Sepsis Heroes
Finding your flock is key. I don’t even socialize anymore with toxic people. My body physically and psychologically can’t handle it.
I guard my peace like it’s oxygen; it’s required for survival. – Shannon McKenney
Many nights, I would be awake, talking to Dr. Google, trying to figure out why I was still in so much pain, and I found something more valuable than gold! A community!
Because sepsis is so tricky, I’ve met people all over the world with stories so different from mine. My 1st discovery, Christine Caron, I met on Instagram and instantly knew I could learn so much from her. Now she’s my friend! Not only is she brilliant, but she also uses her time, personal experience, and knowledge to further sepsis awareness. Along with several other survivors like Angie Nickel, they peer sepsis survivors through their Facebook page, Sepsis Patient Alliance Canada. Because the nature of our conversations is so personal, you must be a sepsis survivor or caregiver to join. We talk about all the things!
Another sleepless night, I met Jackie Duda. She’s another sepsis awareness powerhouse! From changing health policy on the Hill, writing for several publications, and facilitating a support group for sepsis survivors with invisible disabilities with the Sepsis Alliance, I found another kindred spirit! Her latest venture is The 1:20 Podcast. The importance of the title is that she had 1 hour and 20 minutes to live while en route to a hospital that could save her life. I was so happy to be a guest on her show. I’ll let you know when my episode goes live.
Part of my survival therapy is to learn as much as possible about sepsis, so I attend the Sepsis Alliance Summit. Last year, I was riveted by this presenter, Katy Grainger. She just joined the Board of Directors of the Sepsis Alliance, has a podcast, and is TikTok famous. An absolute sepsis warrior that I hope to meet in person someday soon!
Barbara Doljanski is a Patient Partner Researcher like me. We met in the 1st cohort of the Sepsis Canada LiFTING Training Program and graduated in 2024. I don’t know how she has the energy to be a music educator, public speaker, and a Patient Scientist. We will be presenting together at the upcoming 17th World Congress of Intensive & Critical Care and perform during the conference closing ceremony.
This young lady is the epitome of resilience. Her courage in sharing her story from a young adult point of view on TikTok has garnered a lot of attention, and she knows how to go viral. I can’t wait to meet Amalie Henze as we’re both on the same research study.
Sepsis Sisters
There’s something uniting about having a similar survival story. As you can see, Post-Sepsis recovery is different for all of us. I have found that being online, in support groups, and in person at events fills my cup. I am surrounded by people who understand the journey and I can be real with. The power of being seen, heard, and accepted makes us sepsis sisters for life!!!
