Reverend Canon Simon Stevenette, a well-known figure in Old Town, became unwell earlier this month.
Initially experiencing non-specific symptoms, his condition quickly worsened and developed into sepsis, a potentially life-threatening reaction to infection.
He is currently being treated in hospital and remains under medical supervision.
In 2023, he celebrated 25 years in ministry in the parish. He is widely known across the Swindon community for his dedication to the church and his involvement in local life.
As well as his church leadership, he is chaplain to Swindon Town Football Club, a governor at a local academy, a member of the Rotary Club, and an avid sportsman.
In a message from his hospital bed, Reverend Stevenette said: “I never expected that I’d find myself fighting like this.
“It’s strange to be on the other side – the one needing prayers rather than giving them.
“But God’s hand has been with me, and I’m holding on to hope and faith more strongly than ever.”
His family say he is showing great courage during his recovery.
His 21-year-old son, Hugo, said:
“Dad has always been the person running to help others, serving our church, serving the community.
“It’s tough to see him so poorly now, but I know he won’t give up.
“And neither will we. We’re behind him, and we’ll keep praying for him every day.”
Despite his illness, Reverend Stevenette has launched a fundraising appeal from his hospital bed to support Sepsis Research FEAT.
He hopes to raise awareness of the condition and support efforts to improve care for others affected by sepsis.
His parish is asking people to pray for his recovery and for the medical team involved in his care.
They are also encouraging those who can to support the fundraising effort via their JustGiving page.
Sepsis, often referred to as the “hidden killer”, can develop quickly and be difficult to detect in its early stages.
Reverend Stevenette says he remains hopeful about the future and is committed to continuing his work with the local church.
“When I return – Lord willing – I hope we will emerge stronger as a church community, more compassionate, more connected, more alive than ever,” he said.
“This is not the end, but a new beginning.”
