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Sepsis Survivor Loses Legs After Cold Symptoms
14 Feb
Summary
- A father's common cold led to sepsis, pneumonia, and organ failure.
- He underwent double leg amputation below the knee due to blood loss.
- A fundraising campaign supports his garden accessibility after recovery.

Mathew Hicks, initially experiencing symptoms of a common cold with a fever in March of last year, tragically faced a life-altering battle with sepsis. His condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to pneumonia and organ failure, which required him to be placed in a medically induced coma.
Upon waking two weeks later, Mathew learned that sepsis had caused his blood flow to cease to his feet, necessitating the amputation of both legs below the knee. His wife, Rachael, described the intense fear and disbelief the family experienced as Mathew fought for his life.
Mathew's recovery involved a 12-week hospital stay. He has since been diagnosed with a heart condition stemming from the severe sepsis, with his heart now functioning at only 34%. The family acknowledges a challenging road ahead but remains positive, with their daughter Evie now calling her father her "superhero."
A fundraising campaign has been initiated to adapt their garden for Mathew's needs, having already raised over £16,000. Mathew's perspective on life has shifted, prioritizing family time and life enjoyment over constant work.




