Uniting Against Sepsis: SCIRC Highlights from an Impactful Awareness Month
As September comes to a close, we reflect on a successful Sepsis Awareness Month. This month was dedicated to raising awareness about sepsis, a life-threatening condition that affects 1.7 million people and claims 350,000 adult lives annually in the U.S. Healthcare professionals, survivors, and advocates united to emphasize the importance of early detection and treatment.
The Role of the UF Sepsis and Critical Illness Research Center (SCIRC)
The UF Sepsis and Critical Illness Research Center (SCIRC) played a pivotal role in this campaign. As the first center of its kind in the nation, SCIRC focuses on long-term outcomes for sepsis patients. Our innovative research initiatives include immune function testing, studies on gut dysbiosis, temporal changes in immunity, transcriptomic differences, and precision medicine.
Our passion lies in discovering new models, therapies, and advancements that transform sepsis treatments and improve patient outcomes. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of medical research, developing innovative solutions, and ultimately changing the landscape of sepsis care. These advancements are paving the way for more effective and personalized approaches to sepsis care, ultimately aiming to improve patient outcomes and save lives.
Our goal is to ensure that every patient has access to the best possible treatments and a brighter, healthier future.
Community Involvement and Events
Community involvement was a cornerstone of the campaign. Highlights included the SCIRC 5K Fun Run & Walk and the World Sepsis Day Atrium Table event at Shands North Tower, where we celebrated our research and engaged with the public. As a team, we came together to spread awareness and educate the public about sepsis. Additionally, the campaign encouraged public education, support for research, and participation in global events like the Sepsis Superhero Challenge.
How You Can Continue to Help
Sepsis Awareness Month may be over, but the fight against sepsis continues all year long. Here are some ways you can stay involved:
- Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the signs and symptoms of sepsis and share this information with your community. To learn more about sepsis, please listen to our CME Podcast: : https://innovation.ufhealth.org/podcasts/?segitem=63094. : https://innovation.ufhealth.org/podcasts/?segitem=63094 or review our Health & Healing Blog: https://ufhealth.org/stories/2024/neonatal-sepsis-understanding-and-preventing-risks-for-your-newborn.
- Support Research: Consider donating or becoming involved with organizations like SCIRC that are dedicated to finding solutions for sepsis. Supporting research inquiries can be sent to Amanda Reifenrath, SCIRC Program Manager, at Amanda.Reifenrath@surgery.ufl.edu.
- Participate in Local Events: Join us for future events and activities that support sepsis awareness and research.
- Get Involved with Our Research as a Healthy Control Participant: To learn more about participating in research, please visit SCIRC’s website at https://scirc.med.ufl.edu/2024/07/01/get-involved-participate-in-research-healthy-control-recruitment/ or email us at SRG-SCRIC@ad.ufl.edu.
- Participate in Global Events: Join events like the Sepsis Superhero Challenge to raise awareness and honor those affected by sepsis.
Acknowledgments
We extend our gratitude to our community partners, including Depot Park Fun Run, the UF Health Communications Team, Shands Hospital, UF College of Medicine, and the UF Department of Surgery, for their support. Together, we have made significant strides in the fight against sepsis. Thank you for joining us in this important cause and your continued support of our program!
Looking ahead
Continue to join us in this mission and help make a difference in the fight against sepsis. Together, we can save lives and create a healthier tomorrow. Your support, whether through education, participation in events, or contributions to research, is crucial. Let’s continue this journey not only in September but all year long.