Clwyd West AM Darren Millar supported World Sepsis Awareness Day last week when he met with a local sepsis survivor to learn more about the potentially life threatening condition.
Sepsis, also known as septicaemia is when the body responds to an infection in a way that injures its own tissues and organs. The dangerous condition can be lethal, killing over 1,800 people in Wales each year.
Andrew Roberts, Head teacher of St George School, near Abergele, contracted sepsis in January this year and fell seriously ill. Mr Roberts has only just returned to full time work at the school after many months of recovery. He told Darren how, despite the risks, awareness, quick diagnosis and simple treatments can counter the worst effects of sepsis and save lives.
Darren, who is also Shadow Health Minister, said:
"It's great to see Andrew Roberts back at the helm in St George School, he's an incredibly good head teacher and was sorely missed by pupils, staff and parents while he was recovering from his encounter with sepsis.
"I fully support Mr Roberts in his efforts to improve awareness of sepsis in Wales. It is clear that the earlier sepsis is diagnosed and treatment started, then the better the outcomes for patients and their families.
"It is vital that the Welsh Government does more to increase awareness across all parts of the Welsh NHS."
Andrew Roberts added:
"It's a delight to be back in the school full-time and I am really grateful for the messages of goodwill which I received while I was away.
"I'm fortunate to be alive after my brush with Sepsis so I'm pleased that Darren took time to listen to my story and that he has agreed to do what he can to raise awareness of the condition."
Notes:
1. World Sepsis Awareness Day took place on Thursday, 13th September. For more information on sepsis visit http://sepsistrust.org/
2. The photograph shows Darren Millar AM with Andrew Roberts, Head Teacher of St George School, nr Abergele.