Renée Cable, Manitoba’s Advanced Education and Training Minister, recently told the story of her narrow escape from sepsis. That tragic, life-threatening encounter happened all the way back in April. For one 46-year-old mother of two, it became a devastating reality. She required emergency intervention and was hospitalized in St. Boniface Hospital in Winnipeg. In her struggle home, Cable battled confusion and had difficulty communicating. As she slipped into and out of consciousness, it awoke latent worries for her life.
Having served as the NDP Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Southdale, Cable’s experience sheds light on the critical importance of listening to one’s body when confronted with illness. After the removal of an infected gallbladder, she spent weeks healing from the aftermath caused by her sepsis. Even with the seriousness of her condition, she went back to work in the Manitoba Legislature in early June.
A Life-Altering Experience
Cable’s health scare started with a few worrisome symptoms that quickly turned into a dangerous medical situation. At first brushing off her unease, she quickly became confused and unable to speak.
“The experience was a stark reminder that no matter how much you schedule or how much you have going on, when life interrupts, you just have to listen and do what your body tells you,” Cable stated. Her reflections illuminate those sometimes-overlooked cues that one’s body gives you when it is in crisis mode.
The invasive surgery to remove her gallbladder began her sepsis fight. After the surgery, she had significant complications and required many months of recovery. This time to focus on what was essential made her revisit her priorities and what health meant to her.
Returning to Work with Renewed Perspective
After several weeks out of commission, Cable was finally able to return to the Manitoba Legislature. She thanked all those who helped support her through her trial and reminded everyone about listening to their body and always putting health first.
I’m grateful for the experience of being able to really think about how I want the rest of this life to go, she shared. “It has made me appreciate the people I have around me and think a little bit more about how I want to make a difference.”
Her lessons echo well outside the realm of individual trauma and recovery. They draw attention to her robust defense of healthcare providers who work around the clock in tough environments.
“Give the people on the front lines all of the love and respect,” Cable urged. She also recognized that healthcare professionals only encounter patients at their most vulnerable moments and face an emotional toll.
A Call to Action for Health Awareness
Cable’s journey is an excellent reminder for all of us to heed our bodies’ calls when something feels wrong. As a coach she inspires people to make their health a priority even when it’s not easy day-to-day.
“Prioritize your health, which I know is easier said than done,” she advised. “Take care of things when it’s time to take care of them.” Her call to action focuses on taking control of your health and highlights the importance of listening to your body.
