'I thought I was going to die' - Burnley boss on sepsis scare
Burnley’s Jackie Bachteler Returns to the Dugout After a Life‐Threatening Sepsis Battle
Return to the Dugout
Jackie Bachteler will sit in the Burnley dugout at Turf Moor on Sunday for the first time since joining the club, according to BBC Sport. The appointment coincides with Burnley’s Women’s Super League 2 clash against Sunderland at 14:00 BST. Her presence marks a stark contrast to the harrowing experience she endured nine months earlier when she was fighting for her life.
The Sepsis Episode
The American coach arrived from San Diego in December 2025 to work with Burnley’s women’s first team and the men’s academy, “full of excitement for the next step in her coaching career,” BBC Sport reported. Within three weeks, Bachteler’s health took a dramatic turn. She woke up on the training ground feeling that “the whole room spun” and, suspecting a common cold caused by jet lag and a busy schedule, called for the club doctor. She was rushed to accident and emergency and diagnosed with sepsis, a life‐threatening infection that left her bedridden for several days, BBC Sport noted.
Recovery and Ongoing Effects
Months of rehabilitation followed the hospital stay. Bachteler, now 37, still experiences regular post‐sepsis symptoms, but she says the ordeal gave her “a new perspective on life,” BBC Sport quoted. The coach’s recovery timeline, from emergency admission to returning to the dugout, spans roughly nine months, highlighting the long‐term impact of severe sepsis.
Match Against Sunderland and World Sepsis Day
Burnley’s upcoming fixture against Sunderland aligns with World Sepsis Day, providing a platform for Bachteler to share her story publicly. She hopes the visibility will raise awareness of a condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. The match, scheduled for Sunday at 14:00 BST, will be the first time she steps onto the pitch side since her illness, BBC Sport confirmed.
Why the Story Matters
Bachteler’s experience underscores the hidden dangers of sepsis in high‐performance environments. By returning to a coaching role at a professional club, she demonstrates resilience and the importance of early medical intervention. Her willingness to speak openly about the illness aims to educate teammates, staff, and supporters about recognizing symptoms before they become critical.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Jackie Bachteler say about her sepsis scare? She described the moment she realized something was seriously wrong with the words, “I thought I was going to die,” as reported by BBC Sport.
When did Bachteler join Burnley and how soon did the illness occur? She joined the club in December 2025 and was rushed to A&E with sepsis three weeks later, according to BBC Sport.
What is the significance of the upcoming match for Bachteler? The Sunday game against Sunderland coincides with World Sepsis Day, giving her a chance to reflect on her journey and raise awareness, BBC Sport explained.
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