Men’s Health Month: Sepsis, survival and strength with Rob Forkan and Louis Rickman

In episode 16 of Sepsis Voices with Dr Ron, UKST’s Founder & Chief Medical Officer speaks with two inspiring guests for Men’s Health Month. Rob Forkan shares his extraordinary journey of resilience after surviving the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami and later battling sepsis. He offers powerful insights into finding purpose and strength through unimaginable challenges.

Devoted father Louis Rickman recounts his wife Louise’s recent battle with sepsis following the birth of their first child, Rex, as well as the devastating loss of his brother to sepsis in 1999. Together, Rob and Louis explore the profound physical and emotional toll of sepsis and the critical importance of community and mental health support in recovery. 

This episode covers: 

• Rob’s incredible story of mental resilience after surviving the Boxing Day tsunami and sepsis 
• The lasting impact of Louise’s sepsis experience on Louis’ family unit 
• The mental health challenges faced by men and carers in the aftermath of trauma
• The importance of timely recognition of sepsis symptoms, and men accessing healthcare  
• Practical advice for finding resilience, building support networks, and promoting recovery

Tune in to this special episode, released in honour of Men’s Mental Health Month during November 2024, to hear two extraordinary men reflect on their experiences with honesty and hope. 

Of course, if you’re struggling with your mental health at any time, you can also access free nurse-led sepsis support services via our website: https://sepsistrust.org/get-support 

You can also learn more about sepsis and UKST’s mission at sepsistrust.org 

Find out about Rob’s work with Gandys at gandys.com and Preveo at thinkpreveo.com