For Those Who Have Lost A Loved One

What is sepsis?

Sepsis is the body’s life-threatening response to an infection. To learn more, click here. 

What tests are used to help diagnose sepsis?

There is no one test that can diagnose sepsis. Instead, doctors use a combination of blood tests to look for signs of infection and inflammation in the body, and to rule out other illnesses that could be causing their patient to be ill. To learn more, click here.

What does sepsis have to do with other health conditions?

To learn about how sepsis and other conditions may be related, click here.

Where can I find practical information regarding what to do after a loved one dies?

AARP offers a helpful checklist of steps to take.

Where can I share my loved one’s story or read those of others?

Faces of Sepsis™  allows those affected by sepsis to share their experiences of illness, treatment, recovery, and loss. You can read about the experience of sepsis survivors and those who lost a loved one to sepsis. You can also share your experience, here.

What support resources does Sepsis Alliance offer?

Sepsis Alliance Connect is a free virtual support community for everyone affected by sepsis- including those who have lost a loved one. Register to access peer support conversations and informative presentations and panel discussions.

Where do I find professional counseling?

Psychology Today and the American Psychological Association offer online search tools to help find the right counselor for you. Your primary care physician may also be able to recommend somebody in your network to speak with.

Who do I reach out to if I’m in crisis?

In the U.S., dial 988 to reach crisis support resources 24 hours a day.

I want to raise awareness in honor of my loved one. How can I get involved in sepsis awareness and advocacy efforts?

Sepsis Alliance offers resources to get involved including the Sepsis 911 community education presentation and Sepsis Alliance Voices advocacy platform. You can also create a fundraising page in memory of your loved one to support Sepsis Alliance awareness and education programs. Learn more about these resources, and other ways to raise awareness at Sepsis.org. You can also sign up for our newsletter for up-to-date information and offerings, here.