Historic White House Event Raises Sepsis Awareness as Staunton Family Leads Charge

In a significant advancement for sepsis awareness and prevention, Mayo natives Ciaran and Orlaith Staunton played pivotal roles in a historic event at the White House on December 15. This marked the first occasion that the U.S. government has hosted a dedicated event focusing solely on sepsis, a condition that claims the lives of approximately 350,000 Americans each year and leaves many survivors with severe disabilities. The Stauntons have been at the forefront of the fight against sepsis since the tragic loss of their son, Rory, in 2012. Rory died from undiagnosed and untreated sepsis at just 12 years old, prompting his parents to channel their grief into advocacy. They co-founded End Sepsis, an organization dedicated to raising awareness and pushing for systemic changes that would prevent similar tragedies. At the White House event, Orlaith Staunton, the executive director of End Sepsis, delivered heartfelt opening remarks that resonated with the audience, representing the voices of countless families affected by this public health crisis. The event convened a diverse group of stakeholders including health leaders from state health departments, advocates, physicians, researchers, and various government officials, all united in a commitment to address the sepsis epidemic. "This event is a major victory for the sepsis families who have campaigned to have the White House become more proactive on an issue that kills 350,000 Americans annually," Ciaran Staunton remarked. He expressed gratitude for the recognition and action finally taken by the current administration, highlighting the extensive lobbying efforts that had aimed to bring sepsis awareness to the highest levels of government. The event not only highlighted the urgent need for improved awareness and treatment of sepsis but also showcased successful initiatives such as Rory's Regulations in New York. This landmark policy, named in memory of their son, mandates specific protocols for the early recognition and treatment of sepsis in hospital settings. Since its implementation in 2013, Rory's Regulations have been credited with saving 16,000 lives within just four years. End Sepsis aims to eliminate preventable deaths and disabilities caused by sepsis by enhancing public awareness, education, and advocacy. The organization's vision is to create a world where sepsis is recognized as a medical emergency, where healthcare providers are well-equipped to identify and treat it promptly, and where individuals are empowered to recognize its symptoms and advocate for timely care. As the Stauntons continue their mission, the recent White House event stands as a testament to their tireless efforts and the growing recognition of sepsis as a critical healthcare issue that demands immediate attention and action. For more information on their work and ongoing initiatives, visit End Sepsis at www.endsepsis.org.