In December 2022, toddler Ryan Lines from Broken Hill fell critically ill with sepsis following a Strep A infection. Within days, he was in cardiac arrest and urgently flown to Adelaide for life-saving treatment. Ryan survived—but the impact was profound. He underwent multiple surgeries, including the amputation of both lower legs and several fingers. His recovery has been long and complex, but his resilience continues to inspire everyone around him.
In 2024, Ryan’s story became the heart of Broken Hill’s World Sepsis Day campaign. Led by his incredible parents, Jess and Sam, the community united to raise awareness about the signs of sepsis and the importance of early intervention. Schools, local businesses, and health services joined forces, raising close to $15,000 for sepsis awareness and research.
Posters filled shop windows, the Broken Hill Times ran a special feature, and Ryan’s journey was shared widely—reminding families to trust their instincts and seek help early.
Ryan is now a spirited toddler learning to adapt to life after sepsis, surrounded by a community that will always stand beside him. His story has sparked real change, and Broken Hill has shown what’s possible when compassion, advocacy, and local pride come together.
