A father from Turriff, Aberdeenshire, who initially dismissed his symptoms as a common cold, ended up having both legs amputated due to a severe case of sepsis. Mathew Hicks sought help after experiencing a fever and was rushed to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary where doctors diagnosed him with sepsis, Strep A, and pneumonia in his lung.
Mathew was placed in a medically induced coma as his condition deteriorated, leading to the loss of circulation in his feet. Upon waking up two weeks later, he was informed that his legs needed to be amputated below the knee.
Reflecting on the situation, Mathew expressed his shock upon seeing the condition of his feet and his willingness to undergo the necessary amputations. His wife Rachael highlighted the emotional toll of not being able to have their daughter visit him during the critical period.
After spending 12 weeks in the hospital, Mathew was finally discharged and returned home. However, the ordeal left him with a heart condition, reducing his heart’s functionality to 34%. The long-term effects of his health remain uncertain.
Despite the challenges ahead, Mathew and his family remain hopeful about the future. He emphasized the change in his perspective on life, prioritizing family time and enjoyment over work following his illness.