The Reverend Simon Stevenette, Vicar of Christ Church with St Mary’s in Old Town, is now back walking daily after undergoing major open-heart surgery, following a critical period in his ongoing recovery from sepsis.
As previously reported by Swindon24, Simon, who has served the people of Old Town for 27 years, was admitted to hospital after developing sepsis. While doctors were able to contain the sepsis itself, the infection later spread to his heart, leaving him in urgent need of specialist treatment in London.
In a further serious complication, Simon suffered a seizure shortly before his heart surgery was due to begin. Crucially, this happened before the operation, allowing medical teams to stabilise him. Once he had recovered sufficiently from the seizure, surgeons proceeded with the planned operation to replace his Aortic Valve and strengthen his heart.
Following surgery, Simon spent two weeks in intensive care, closely monitored by specialist cardiac and critical care teams. His family have now confirmed that he has made encouraging progress and is alert, speaking, and beginning to walk again, marking a significant milestone in his recovery.
Throughout his illness, Simon has been deeply moved by the response from across Swindon. As highlighted in earlier coverage, hundreds of messages, prayers, and personal stories have been shared by residents whose lives he has touched over the past quarter century. His family say Simon has read every message sent to him and has drawn real strength from the scale of support.
Alongside the messages of encouragement, the fundraising appeal launched in Simon’s name has now raised over £2,500 for Sepsis Research FEAT, helping to fund vital research into the condition that nearly claimed his life. The family say Simon has been humbled that his experience has already helped raise awareness and support for others.
Simon is widely known not only for his leadership at Christ Church since 1998, but also for his wider contribution to schools, charities, Swindon Town football club and community life across Old Town, where he is regarded as a calm, compassionate, and consistent presence.
Speaking on behalf of the family, his son Hugo said:
“Seeing how many people have been praying for Dad has meant everything to us. There were moments when things were really frightening, especially before the surgery, but knowing the whole community was behind him gave us strength. Dad has felt those prayers every step of the way, and we are so grateful for the love Swindon has shown our family.”
The family have asked that their thanks be passed on to everyone who has prayed, sent messages, or supported the fundraising for Sepsis Research FEAT.
While Simon’s recovery remains ongoing, his progress so far has been described as very hopeful. The family have asked people across Swindon to continue praying for his healing, strength, and peace as he continues the next stages of his recovery.
You can donate to the Sepsis charity on this JustGiving page.
