Harry Redknapp has spoken movingly about the moment his wife Sandra nearly died from sepsis, as he launches a powerful new awareness drive with the UK Sepsis Trust.
The 78-year-old former Tottenham Hotspur manager and I’m A Celebrity winner revealed that in 2018, Sandra developed sepsis from a kidney infection. He recalled: “It was terrifying – but we were lucky. She survived; 48,000 families across the UK aren’t as fortunate. That’s why I’ve teamed up with the UK Sepsis Trust to get lifesaving information in front of as many people as possible.”
Redknapp is now fronting the campaign “It’s Game On For Sepsis”, which includes an online football challenge called the Sepsis Savvy Shootout. Participants who play will be entered into a draw to meet Harry himself.
Dr Ron Daniels, founder and chief medical officer of the UK Sepsis Trust, explained the importance of the campaign, saying that sports communities have a unique power to rally around those in need. “The likelihood is that someone in your community has already been impacted by sepsis,” he said. “Our goal is to empower every community to become sepsis savvy. We’re delighted to have Harry supporting us.”
Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that kills 48,000 people every year in the UK, with 245,000 affected annually. It occurs when the body overreacts to an infection, causing its own tissues and organs to be damaged. Symptoms can resemble flu or chest infections, making it hard to spot. The NHS urges anyone who suspects sepsis to call 999 or go to A&E immediately.
The campaign’s prize draw runs until September 30, but the game will remain on the UK Sepsis Trust’s website as an educational tool.
Redknapp, whose career has spanned nearly 60 years, managed clubs including West Ham, Southampton, and Portsmouth, where he famously guided the team to FA Cup glory in 2008. He and Sandra share two sons, including former England footballer Jamie Redknapp. Harry is also uncle to Coventry City manager Frank Lampard.
