Presence Health Brings Public Attention to Sepsis Danger through Primary Sponsorship of 3rd Annual Sepsis Challenge Illinois

Presence Health announced today it’s proud to be the “Primary Sponsor” for the annual Sepsis Challenge Illinois Run and Walk on July 30, 2015. This will be the third time Presence Health has been a sponsor of this important event intended to raise public awareness of the cause for more than 258,000 U.S. deaths every year.

Presence Health continues to support the Annual Sepsis Challenge as a sponsor in order to raise inform the public regarding the health dangers brought on by sepsis, sometimes called blood poisoning. Sepsis is the body’s often deadly response to infection of virtually any kind.

“Sepsis is the third leading cause of death in the U.S. Every 2.5 minutes someone dies of sepsis,” said Presence Health TeleHealth Strategy and Development System Director Laura Messineo RN, BS, MHA. “No one is immune and sepsis can strike anyone regardless of age, race or color. The Illinois Sepsis Challenge is committed to increasing community and health care clinician awareness of the signs, symptoms and treatment of sepsis so more survive.” Two years ago, Messineo spearheaded the inaugural Illinois Sepsis Challenge 5K Fun Run and Walk raising funds and awareness throughout Illinois communities.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Sepsis Alliance , the leading nonprofit patient advocacy organization in the U.S. promoting sepsis awareness.

The race event will held 9a.m., Saturday, July 30, 2016 at Centennial Park 10401 W. 153rd, Orland Park, IL.

Event Honorary Chair

This year’s Honorary Chair for the Sepsis Challenge Illinois Run and Walk will be Liz and Tony Galbo of Monticello. The Galbo’s are parents of Gabby Galbo, a 5-year-old girl who died from sepsis four years ago. The Galbo’s are responsible for continuing to bring the causes and impact of Sepsis to the attention of the state government. Their activism has led to the Illinois House voting 115-0 for House Bill 2403, or “Gabby’s Law” as it is more commonly called. “Gabby’s Law” will require Illinois hospitals to adopt, implement and periodically update protocols for the early recognition and treatment of patients with sepsis or septic shock. “Gabby’s Law” is currently awaiting Governor Rauner signature.

For more information about Sepsis Challenge Illinois Run and Walk or if you wish to participate in the race as a volunteer please Illinois Sepsis Challenge or contact Laura Messineo by email at Laura.Messineo@PresenceHealth.org.