Sepsis Alliance Receives Grant from Edwards Lifesciences Foundation for Sepsis Prevention and Awareness

Global medical technology firm has been funding sepsis awareness efforts since 2009.

SAN DIEGO (March 1, 2016) – Sepsis Alliance announced today that it is the recipient of a $50,000 grant from the Edwards Lifesciences Foundation. The unrestricted grant will be used to raise awareness of sepsis, the third leading cause of death in the United States, and fund prevention and education programs.

“This grant from the Edwards Lifesciences Foundation will allow Sepsis Alliance to create critical resources and support for sepsis patients, family members, health providers, and the general public,” said Thomas Heymann, Executive Director of Sepsis Alliance. “Their continued support, particularly during the formative years of our organization, has been absolutely critical to fulfilling our mission, and we are very thankful.”

In 2004, Edwards Lifesciences created the Edwards Lifesciences Foundation to support advancements in knowledge and improvements in quality of life. The Foundation makes grants to community programs, as well as health-focused programs in communities where Edwards Lifesciences’ employees live and work.

“The mission of Sepsis Alliance is to save lives by raising awareness of sepsis as a medical emergency,” said Amanda Fowler, Executive Director, Global Corporate Giving at Edwards Lifesciences. “We are honored to support Sepsis Alliance in their mission, and look forward to helping them further their educational and awareness outreach.” According to a 2015 survey, commissioned by Sepsis Alliance and conducted by Harris Poll, only 44 percent of American adults have ever of sepsis, yet it is the third leading cause of death in the country. It is also the most expensive healthcare expense, costing over $20 billion dollars a year for acute hospital care alone and is the leading cause of death in hospitals. Studies have shown that early recognition and prompt treatment of sepsis can reduce mortality, as well as lasting effects, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), limb amputations, chronic pain, and more.

“As the numbers demonstrate, we still have much work to do,” added Heymann, “but we are truly grateful that Edwards recognizes the importance and effectiveness of our efforts in raising sepsis awareness, and is helping us move the needle forward.”

About Sepsis Alliance

Sepsis Alliance is the leading authority on sepsis, promoting patient well-being and sepsis awareness. A recipient of Guidestar’s Gold Rating, Sepsis Alliance’s mission is to save lives by raising awareness of sepsis as a medical emergency. The organization tracks awareness levels, hosts national and community events, educates patients and healthcare providers, and supports survivors and family members impacted by this devastating disease. Sepsis Alliance also works with hospitals and healthcare organizations to improve sepsis diagnosis and response times, and provide support to patients with post sepsis syndrome. For more information, please visit www.sepsis.org.