A doctor is set to take on the challenge of a 300 kilometre solo challenge across the Highlands in support of a sepsis charity.

Dr Susanna Hocking, 47, a mum of four from Worcestershire, is will embark on a three-day journey across the Hebridean Way to increase awareness of the life-threatening condition, which is responsible for 48,000 deaths in the UK each year.

She has collaborated with Bike Worcester, a community charity promoting safe and accessible cycling in the city, while training for the charity ride.

 

 

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Dr Hocking, who works as the Medical Lead within Practice Plus Group’s integrated urgent care division in Gloucestershire, said: "By taking on this huge challenge, I hope that the total raised will help prevent hundreds of deaths and unnecessary suffering through knowledge and awareness of the symptoms of sepsis – which can present a bit like the flu at first.

"It also funds vital support work, public awareness campaigns, education for health professionals, and helps people adjust to life after sepsis through accessing Support Group networks."

The challenge will begin today (March 23), and will end on Monday (March 25).

Dr Hocking will traverse 10 islands, two ferries, and six causeways to the UK’s northernmost point on the map.

This is not a challenge for the faint-hearted; with unpredictable weather in Scotland anticipated to present strong winds and heavy rain.

Dr Hocking's journey has been thoroughly planned, carrying all her items on her bike and having arranged overnight accommodation along the route.

The tragic death of 13-year old Martha Mills from sepsis in 2021 at Kings College Hospital, London, following a cycling accident, has led to increased awareness of the condition.

Still, Dr Hocking believes there is more work to be done to educate people on the symptoms and when they should seek medical attention.

She has also used her training and the challenge to manage her peri-menopause symptoms as motivation.

Dr Hocking said: "Whilst my primary goal is to raise awareness for UK Sepsis Trust, if I can inspire women with peri-menopausal symptoms to ask for support from their GP, or up their fitness goals, I’m all for it."