Preston 8-year-old raises funds for sepsis by climbing hills in tribute to grandmother

Arthur, an 8-year-old from Preston, is on a mission to raise funds for The UK Sepsis Trust by climbing eight hills and mountains, remembering his grandmother Hazel, who died from sepsis last year.

Arthur, alongside his mother Jessica Pryce and family, has already completed several challenging routes across Lancashire and the Lake District, raising £515.

Their next venture is set for 3rd May, with Arthur and Jessica aiming to climb Pendle Hill in East Lancashire.

Sepsis claims the lives of five people in the UK every hour, affecting 245,000 people annually.

Hazel, originally from Preston, battled the illness before passing in her early sixties after complications arising from pneumonia and a kidney infection led to sepsis.

Arthur shared his motivation: “I’m doing this challenge because I don’t want other children to be sad like I am, missing someone because of sepsis."

Jessica expressed pride in her son's courage: “Arthur is a true superstar! It means so much to us as a family to help in even a small way.”

Dr Ron Daniels BEM, Founder of the UK Sepsis Trust, praised Arthur's efforts: “Taking on such a challenge at a young age in memory of his grandmother is truly inspiring."

The UK Sepsis Trust, established in 2012, works to end preventable deaths from sepsis, raising awareness and providing support through recovery and bereavement.

Sepsis can be difficult to identify, with symptoms spelling 'sepsis': slurred speech, extreme pain, passing no urine, severe breathlessness, "it feels like I'm going to die," and mottled skin.

Arthur’s efforts aim to bring attention to the condition and encourage prompt action when symptoms are recognised.

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