Fighting for dignity: Evan Francis on life with Fowler’s Syndrome, urosepsis and patient power

In episode 19 of Sepsis Voices with Dr Ron, UKST’s Founder & Chief Medical Officer is joined by Evan Francis, a disability campaigner and survivor of urosepsis, to mark Catheter Awareness Week in June.

Evan lives with Fowler’s Syndrome – a rare condition affecting the bladder that led to her long-term catheterisation and a life-threatening sepsis episode. In this frank and informative conversation, she shares the realities of navigating daily life with a suprapubic catheter, the challenge of being heard by healthcare professionals, and why self-advocacy is vital in managing long-term conditions like hers.

This episode builds on our previous conversation with Kidney Care UK, highlighting the increased risk of infection and sepsis associated with in-dwelling devices, and the need for greater public and clinical understanding.

The episode covers:

• Evan’s experience of Fowler’s Syndrome and the onset of urosepsis
• The role of long-term catheter use in increasing sepsis risk
• Antibiotic resistance, and the importance of symptom tracking
• Stigma and misunderstanding around hidden disabilities
• The need for compassionate, joined-up care across the health system

Tune in for a compelling conversation on lived experience, dignity in care, and how listening to patients can lead to better outcomes for all.

If you’ve been affected by sepsis and would like free support, reach out today: https://sepsistrust.org/get-support/