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.
"A sepsis changes life. Sometimes a person looks different afterward, moves differently, or needs help. But the person remains the same -- lovable, brave, and full of dreams," said Astrid Wendlik, chairwoman of Deutsche Sepsis-Hilfe e. V.
The project was funded by Germany's Federal Ministry of Health
The book was created as part of the #DeutschlandErkenntSepsis campaign and received support from the Bundesministerium für Gesundheit.
Families can request a free printed copy or download the PDF
Deutsche Sepsis-Hilfe is distributing the book at no cost to affected families. To fund production, the organization is running a sponsorship campaign under the slogan "2 coffees for you, 1 book for 1 child" -- noting that a donation of 7 euros covers the printing and shipping of one copy.