From Sepsis Survivor to Awareness Advocate

Meet Robin Shuckburgh, a courageous Bampton resident who transformed his frightening battle with sepsis into a mission to save lives. In mere hours, this healthy man faced the brink of death in 2023, plunging into septic shock after experiencing a sudden decline in his health.

A Life-Changing Experience

Describing the episode as a nightmare, Robin recalled, "I went from feeling groggy to my body shutting down. My temperature skyrocketed to 41°C (105.8°F), my blood pressure disappeared, and I was in serious trouble." Thanks to his son’s quick thinking, he reached a hospital in Oxford, where he endured a grueling treatment regime battling the deadly condition.

Walking for a Cause

Fast forward to today, Robin is embracing life fully again and is committed to raising awareness about sepsis by hiking the breathtaking Cotswold Way—a 102-mile (164 km) trail—on September 13, coinciding with World Sepsis Day. He is documenting this trek on his YouTube channel, The Cotswolds Explorer!

The Stark Reality of Sepsis

Despite Robin’s fortunate recovery, sepsis remains a silent killer in the UK, claiming around 50,000 lives annually—more than the combined toll of breast, bowel, and prostate cancer. "Sepsis isn’t just about infection; it can lead to drastic consequences, including amputations and lifelong disabilities," he warns.

A Journey through History and Nature

Joined by producer Ross Arrowsmith, Robin is savoring the stunning vistas of the Cotswolds while sharing meaningful conversations about sepsis along the way. Their journey not only celebrates survival but also unearths the hidden gems of the region—picturesque villages and historic monuments.

Support from Fellow Survivors

Joining them is former RAF Warrant Officer Al Sylvester MBE, another survivor of sepsis. Together, they stand united in amplifying the message about the disease, proving that awareness can lead to early detection and potentially save lives.

The Call for Awareness

As they approach the conclusion of their challenge—also marking the ninth anniversary of their YouTube channel—Robin shares a passionate plea: "We need to educate ourselves on the symptoms of sepsis. The earlier it is recognized, the better the chances of survival. Let’s spread the word!"