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Sassy

@Sassy

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Joined about two months ago

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Members' Corner, Feb-March '25: Teach us about something that's close to your heart

in Just

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Being Sepsis Savvy

In 2019, my life changed forever when I developed sepsis in my leg. I came dangerously close to losing my life, and the aftermath left me with lasting disabilities. However, this experience ignited my passion for raising awareness about sepsis. As a content creator and streamer, I use my platform to educate people about this life-threatening condition, helping them become more "sepsis savvy." I also raise funds for charity to support vital research and those affected by sepsis.

Sepsis is often difficult to detect because its symptoms can be vague and easily mistaken for the flu or other common illnesses. However, sepsis is a medical emergency, and early recognition is critical. If you or someone you know experiences any of the following symptoms, ask yourself: Could it be sepsis? and seek urgent medical attention immediately.

Symptoms of Sepsis:

  • Slurred speech or confusion

  • Extreme shivering or muscle pain

  • Passing no urine (in a day)

  • Severe breathlessness

  • It feels like you’re going to die

  • Skin mottled or discoloured

What is Sepsis?

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to an infection, causing widespread inflammation that can lead to organ failure and death. While our immune system usually helps us fight infections, in cases of sepsis, it turns against us, attacking the body's own tissues and organs.

Sepsis can affect anyone, regardless of age, health, or fitness level. It is not contagious, meaning you cannot catch it from someone else, but it can develop rapidly in response to an infection. Immediate medical treatment is essential, as untreated sepsis is fatal. The sooner sepsis is identified, the better the chances of survival. In many cases, a simple blood test can confirm the presence of sepsis. Globally, this condition claims approximately 11 million lives per year, making awareness crucial.

What Can Cause Sepsis?

Not every infection leads to sepsis, but any infection has the potential to trigger it. This is why understanding the condition and recognising its symptoms are so important. Sepsis most commonly develops from bacterial infections, but it can also result from viral and fungal infections. Some of the most frequent infections that can lead to sepsis include:

  • Chest infections (pneumonia)

  • Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

  • Abdominal infections (such as appendicitis or gallbladder infections)

  • Skin and soft tissue infections (including cellulitis and wound infections)

Why Awareness Matters

Sepsis is a race against time. Every minute counts when it comes to diagnosing and treating this condition. If you or someone you know displays symptoms, don’t hesitate—ask the question: Could it be sepsis? Seeking medical help immediately could mean the difference between life and death.

By reading this, you’ve taken an important step in becoming more sepsis savvy. One day, this knowledge could help save your life or the life of someone you love. Spread awareness, stay informed, and help fight sepsis together.

Suggest tips for new streamers!

in Content Creators

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5 Years of Streaming: What I've Learned and What You Should Know

Streaming is an exciting, ever-evolving space, but after five years in the game, I’ve learned a few hard truths and valuable lessons. Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your approach, these insights will help you navigate the world of streaming.

1. Choose Your Content Wisely

It’s tempting to jump into the latest trending game or follow what the biggest streamers are doing, but that’s not always the best strategy. Play a game or engage in content you genuinely enjoy. Why? Because passion is contagious. However, be mindful of the audience size for that content on Twitch.

  • If a game has too few viewers, it will be tough to grow.

  • If a game is oversaturated, your stream may get buried beneath thousands of others.

  • Find the sweet spot—use Twitch tracker sites to analyze the most viewed games over the past 30-90 days and choose something you love that also has a solid audience.

2. Have Fun—Seriously

If you’re not enjoying yourself, why should your viewers? Whether you're gaming, making music, creating art, or just chatting, your enthusiasm is what draws people in. Two things to keep in mind:

  • If no one is watching, at least you’re still doing something you love.

  • If you’re genuinely engaged, people will naturally want to stick around.

3. Engage with Your Chat

Your chat is the heart of your community. Whether you have three viewers or three hundred, take the time to acknowledge them. A simple “Hey [username], welcome in!” can make all the difference. People come to Twitch not just to watch, but to connect. Share your thoughts on the game you’re playing, your art techniques, or just what’s going on in your day.

4. Be Yourself—Not a Copy of Someone Else

Trying to mimic top streamers by using their catchphrases, alerts, or style won’t make you stand out—it’ll just make you blend in. What makes your stream unique is YOU.

  • Develop your own intro and outro.

  • Show off your personality.

  • Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own groove.

5. Don’t Feed the Trolls

Unfortunately, trolls are part of the streaming landscape. They might target your appearance, your skills, or anything else to get a reaction. The key? Don’t engage.

Twitch provides great moderation tools:

  • Delete offensive messages

  • Time out or warn disruptive users

  • Ban repeat offenders

Your stream is your space—keep it safe and positive. The viewers who truly support you will always treat you with kindness and respect.

6. Be Realistic About Money

Let’s be clear: streaming won’t make you rich in 2025. During the pandemic, many streamers saw massive growth and revenue spikes, but that was an anomaly. Disposable income and ad revenue have decreased significantly.

If you're streaming solely to make money, you’ll likely be disappointed. Instead, do it for fun, for the connections, and for the experience. If you happen to make some money along the way? Great! But don’t bank on it replacing your job.

Streaming is a journey, and like any journey, it comes with highs and lows. Stay authentic, engage with your audience, and most importantly—enjoy the process. Success, whether measured in followers, friendships, or financial gains, comes from consistency, passion, and patience. Happy streaming you got this!