New Children's Book Helps Kids Understand a Parent's Sepsis Diagnosis
Berlin – September 10, 2026 -- The Deutsche Sepsis-Hilfe e. V. has released a free children's book, "Papas kleiner Gemeinling," to help families explain sepsis to kids when a parent is suddenly hospitalized.
Sepsis, commonly known as blood poisoning, is the most severe form of an infection and ranks among the leading causes of death in Germany. At least 230,000 people in the country are diagnosed with sepsis each year, and at least 85,000 die from its effects.
The book follows a girl named Hannah as her father battles sepsis
Written by children's author Saskia Heinl and illustrated by Julia Hannes, the story explains in age-appropriate terms what happens during treatment and rehabilitation. It aims to acknowledge children's fears while offering reassurance during a frightening time.