Gwalia United is proud to announce its partnership with ‘Rachel’s Day’ which was set up in memory of Rachel Day — a vibrant and much-loved young woman who tragically lost her life to sepsis at the age of 29. ‘Rachel’s Day’ was formed by her family and friends who are affectionately known as #Rachel’sArmy. They have been fundraising tirelessly to raise awareness of Sepsis and funded significant and crucial campaigns to improve public awareness of Sepsis and help the healthcare community recognise the signs and improve clinical practise. They work in partnership with the UK Sepsis Trust Head of Regional Engagement Wales, Terence Canning.
This weekend’s home fixture against Tottenham Hotspur will see the club supporting Rachel’s Day with a collection and awareness campaign aimed at helping fans and supporters understand the symptoms of sepsis and the importance of acting fast.
Rachel was a fit and healthy young woman whose beauty, humour and infectious personality lit up every room she entered. Her passing inspired a lasting mission to save lives through greater awareness.
Karen Jones MBE, Club Secretary at Gwalia United, said the team is honoured to support Rachel’s Day and its life-saving work:
“Rachel’s story is incredibly powerful and it reminds us how vital awareness can be. As an elite football team, we take as much pride in serving the community as we do in performing on the pitch. Football gives us a platform, and we want to use it to make a difference. By supporting Rachel’s Day at this weekend’s game, we hope to help save lives through awareness and education.”
Chairperson Michele Adams MBE highlighted how important partnerships like this are to the club’s wider mission:
“Football brings people together, and that gives us a real opportunity to shine a light on issues that matter. Sepsis can affect anyone, at any time. If just one person recognises the symptoms because of what we do this weekend, then we’ve made an impact. We’re proud to stand alongside Rachel’s family and to spread this lifesaving message.”
For Rachel’s mum, Bernie Day, this campaign is about turning personal loss into positive change:
“Rachel had an amazing energy that touched everyone who knew her. Our family’s hope is that by sharing her story, we can help others. If more people know the signs of sepsis and act quickly, lives can be saved. We’re so thankful to Gwalia United for supporting us and helping spread this message far and wide.”
Supporters attending this weekend’s match at the club’s home ground will be able to donate to the Rachel’s Day.
And in the build-up to the match, Gwalia United players will be sharing their own messages of support and awareness across social media to help spread the word even further.
To find out more about Rachel’s story and the signs of sepsis, visit Rachel’s Day and follow the club’s channels to join the conversation.
