A father from Aberdeenshire, Mathew Hicks, faced a life-threatening battle with sepsis after initially mistaking it for a common cold. He ended up having both of his legs amputated below the knee. Hicks, who was taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, was diagnosed with sepsis, Strep A, and pneumonia in his right lung.
After being induced into a coma due to organ failure, Hicks woke up to the heartbreaking news of the need for amputation. His wife, Rachael, described the tough seven weeks without their daughter being able to visit him as the most challenging part of their ordeal.
The family endured a harrowing experience as Mathew fought for his life with the help of an ECMO machine, a life-support system that aids heart and lung functions. Despite the setbacks, Mathew’s positive attitude and focus on his daughter, Evie, have been sources of strength for him.
After spending 12 weeks in the hospital, Mathew was finally discharged and returned home. However, the severe sepsis has left him with a heart condition, with uncertain long-term effects. Despite the challenges ahead, the family remains hopeful and optimistic about the future.
Mathew expressed relief at being back home and shared how his perspective on life has shifted, emphasizing the importance of enjoying life and spending more time with loved ones over work.