Mannin Sepsis will shortly be winding down all activity before officially closing its doors in March 2021.

The charity was established in 2016 by John and Dee Struthers after their daughter, Ann, died after developing sepsis in 2013.

Sepsis survivor and friend Ali Thomas was also involved in its founding.

The trio had realised that knowledge around the signs of sepsis and the risks and complications it can cause was lacking in the island, and founded the charity with the intention to raise awareness and support those either directly or indirectly affected by the illness.

A selection of the charity’s achievements since its inception included: A support committee of eight, the printing of a sepsis information sign on four island ambulances, the purchase of a film array machine for the Department of Health and Social Care laboratory and a lactate monitor for the Manx Emergency Doctors Service.

In addition to this, the charity formed support groups, raised awareness with talks and presentations, offered training sessions to key health workers on the risks and how to spot the early signs of sepsis, and organised advertising campaigns and events.

Mrs Struthers, director of Mannin Sepsis, says the charity has been overwhelmed with the support it has received from the Manx community over the past four years.

She said: ’It is truly humbling to look back at how far Mannin Sepsis has come and reflect on what we have been able to achieve.

Quite simply, we couldn’t have done it without the support of the wonderful people around us.

’I’m sure you can understand the emotional and physical toll that managing the charity has on our families and should not be underestimated.

’Although Mannin Sepsis has given us a sense of purpose and great fulfilment over the past four years, the time has come to take a step back.

’Knowing that more people are now aware of sepsis and the symptoms associated with the devastating illness than when we began and that real lives have been saved because of our work, is truly humbling, and provides us with great comfort.’

She added: ’We’d like to say a heartfelt thanks to every single person who has supported us in some way, perhaps by donating, attending one of our events, presentations or sessions or even liked our Facebook page.

’Every little helps and we are truly thankful for the support we have received.’