How sepsis 'silent killer' made Mick O'Dowd a quadruple amputee | Australian Story

On Christmas Day father-of-two Mick O’Dowd was experiencing muscle pain. By Boxing Day, he was fighting for his life in intensive care.
Mick was diagnosed with sepsis, a little known but life-threatening illness that occurs when the body’s response to an infection damages its own tissues and organs.
To save his life, doctors were forced to amputate all of Mick’s limbs.
This is the incredible story of determination and love in the face of an incomprehensible situation.
#AustralianStory #Sepsis
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About Australian Story: Putting the "real" back into reality television, Australian Story is an award-winning documentary series with no narrator and no agendas - just authentic stories told entirely in people's own words. Take 30 minutes to immerse yourself in the life of an extraordinary Australian. They're sometimes high profile, sometimes controversial, but always compelling. It’s television guaranteed to make you think and feel. New episodes are available every Monday.

[@sowhatwearedoomed]

I had sepsis . I was very sick and passed out . The EMT said you probably just stood up too quick . You still want to go to the hospital . I almost said no but then I knew how sick I was . Don’t let anyone talk you out of seeking medical help.

[@Foxor83]

I don’t know how this woman had the strength and fortitude to talk so calmly to her husband during such a grim and dark time.

[@watchgoose]

for better or for worse, in sickness and in health (etc)...

[@randomshuffle6399]

Extremely strong and wonderful lady.

[@courtneyjackson7181]

When you have no option all you can do is be strong and positive for the closest to you. Just like you would want someone to talk to you. Supportive, strong and positive.

[@xo7499]

She had to calm him down.

[@bobduvar]

Because she knows how important are the words she pronounces ! Straight to the aim : his soul ! His heart ! His life !!!

[@sarahgiselle918]

I fell ill in this same exact way. Nov 7 2019 was the day I finally came to the ER and within 4 hours I was on life support with multiple organ failure and a 30% chance of survival. I'm fortunate to have not had amputations but I became paralyzed and am wheelchair bound. This journey has changed me in the best way. The amount of insight, patience and humility you obtain from surviving septic shock is baffling.

[@Teenywing]

Oh no! I hope you are happy and feeling ok now! ♥️♥️

[@Justicia007]

So glad you're still here and thanks for sharing that!! You're an amazing inspiration just like this man! All the best to you.

[@sparkstudies1675]

Is it avoidable?

[@jenniferbassett3001]

God bless you Sarah 💖🇺🇸 from America

[@rmilkyswife]

I understand I'm recovering thank God I didn't lose any limbs either but I was given a zero chance to live. I lost a organ out of it and I had to learn to walk, dress myself, feed myself again after five months in a feeding tube. It has been one of the hardest things mentally for me. I almost have up Thank God I didnt ! I would not dish this illness on anybody.

[@BOLLOCKS1968]

My sister in law just passed on July the 10th from this. She had been telling nurses and doctors she was not feeling well for days before they finally did some tests that revealed she was in septic shock. From the time they diagnosed her ... she didn't even last 24 hours. Hospitals are so over crowded and under staffed these days that people are not getting the proper care.

[@valbain209]

I'm so sorry for your loss. 😔🙏

[@barbarakauppi9915]

I am so sorry for your terrible, tragic loss. Our hearts go out to you and your family.

[@carolhewett3756]

It seems that as we progress technologically that the diagnostic skills of doctors begin to suffer. I'm so sorry for your loss.

[@maguisolares9268]

Que es septic? No entiendo ...yo pensaba que habia Sido culpa de una bacteria...

[@sarahm.5356]

Sepsis es cuando una infección de cualquier tipo entre en la sangre y viaje por el cuerpo. Puedo ser de bacteria, virus, aún fungal.

[@gabe-po9yi]

How much it must have meant to him when she looked lovingly into his eyes and said It’s going to pretty different, but we’ll get through it and smiled.

[@reinildasantiagomerlo8526]

This lady is true at heart and an angel to her husband. Best of wishes, blessings, love and specially health.

[@ahmadovasvlog5028]

Strong woman

[@B6east]

Yes she is a solid rock. I wish for them all the best !!!

[@reginadaniels9363]

❤ that was love❤

[@Didenne]

I cried when you could see him try to smile after that

[@MrEmreWawa]

he couldn’t have survived without his wife. she was so calm and logical about everything. he’s a lucky man to have her.

[@linanicolia1363]

He is not a lucky man. Not my version, anyway.

[@joanknotts2764]

He is very much a lucky man because in the eyes of his maker and his family he is a hero USA 0f America 🇺🇸

[@thewildetyme1112]

@@joanknotts2764 his ain’t american he’s australian

[@laurenanderson7330]

@@joanknotts2764 “United States of America of America”

[@tmfromdenmark9158]

❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@davido3395]

I could not watch this until the end. My friend of over 45 years died from Sepsis and her funeral was on the 12th of August 2022. It is still too soon to tell her whole story as I am still in shock. All I can say is that something must be done to save any more patients, families and friends from this shocking condition.

[@user-vg6pj2my2n]

Sending you a big hug David. So sorry for your loss. These are early days yet. It takes many YEARS to get over sudden deaths like this. Keep on keeping on. It does ease with time, though you will always miss your friend.

[@mh-tb9lu]

So sorry for your loss. Remember all the moments with your friend that matter most.

[@christinekelly7769]

My deepest Condolences.

[@wolfwillet431]

So sorry for your loss. Your friend obviously had a great friend in you.

[@sally628]

Hats off to this true loving wife! Sepsis is an enemy disease and under-rated. She is a “the ride or die wife” and “till death do us apart” God bless her heart and Mick and bless their family 💜 🙏

[@maryshanley329]

This beautiful couple are what wedding vows are all about. You both are lucky to have loving spouses. I am sure happiness will fully return as you learn to adjust and thrive. God bless. Nick, you look like the Irish men who have graced my life, my dad, my brother and my late and beloved husband. They were all handsome and all had the same name, John. Actually we are US of Irish heritage. We went to Ireland in 2000, and I felt so much at home. Take good care.❤☘️🙏🇦🇺🇦🇺

[@brody6334]

Never take life for granted. It can change within half a second and turn upside down in an instant.

[@mekit.mariam3198]

Very True! But we humans always forget

[@ZaxTheAl1en]

aynen. bir anda ulke ekonomisi bir anda yok olabilir.

[@vinylking7912]

clearly.

[@inspiretoawaken3641]

It’s in our nature to forget we need reminders all the time.😢

[@ionaworld7034]

I lost one of my school bff to this. R.i.p lindsay miss you tonnes ❤❤

[@dalebrown2469]

Wonderful wife that took her vows serious. This I s what I did with my husband. I stood by him till he passed

[@southernforestgypsy]

So many stories of loss, I'm so sorry you lost your husband Dale, God bless x

[@leelunk8235]

DALE+ MILLENIALS DON'T THINK LIKE YOU THAT'S WHY I WILL NEVER MARRY AGAIN

[@drea409]

I'm so sorry for your loss

[@browneyedmay]

@@leelunk8235 it’s sad isn’t it, that those vows mean nothing anymore. I would love to to grow old with my partner, still holding hands and so on like we did from the very beginning x

[@leelunk8235]

@@browneyedmay YEA IT IS ..MY MOM WAS MARRIED 26YRS AND THEN DIVORCED..PEOPLE THINK THAT MARRIAGE CERTIFICATES IS THE END ALL BE ALL..AND REALITY IS..ITS JUST A BENEFIT PACKAGE IN A CUTE ENVELOPE

[@emmashuffle6457]

My son was born premature at 23 weeks and ended up with sepsis 2 weeks later. Doctors told us he had maybe 24 hours if we’re lucky. He’s now 5 years old and thriving. Strong spirits can go so far in life!

[@donnacain9692]

🙏😊

[@erikawindt529]

Hi I am so dirty you had to go thru such an incredibly difficult time with your tiny baby. I’m glad things worked out snd he’s fine. My little brother was born at 26 weeks before the advent of humidy cribs or neonatal units for his care. He was extremely fragile and developed asthma due to his lungs hadn’t developed sufficiently yet. However we were very fortunate as when he was three days old the very first humudy crib arrived at the hospital and the drs decided to give it to my little brother. He survived and thrived. The youngest preemie to have survived in our generation. He turned 64 this year and he’s been mostly healthy most of his life. Tho we almost lost him twice in the very early years to his asthma it didn’t seem to slow him down in his life. So there’s hope now that your little will continue to thrive. Blessings 🙏🙏

[@animalrescuer80]

My baby also born at 23 week. Same exact issue. Now, thriving and goofy. The most loving child. It's my honor and privilege to serve my baby❤

[@heidipeters7174]

With every hour left with an untreated sepsis your recovery diminishes by 8%. It’s harrowing. My dad was having a stent procedure ( A Thursday)but because he had had a bypass a few years previously the doctors decided to keep him in under observation overnight which would have been fine if he’d been monitored properly. Unbeknown to them, They had torn his vein and it had pooled and sepsis had set in during the night. By the morning he critical and they rushed him into the ICU. He was induced into a coma and by Tuesday after multiple organ failure he had gone. It’s hard not to feel anger and resentment especially as my mum and dad were inseparable and she took it so hard. This was 7 years ago now yet so little is being publicized about this terrible condition.

[@Ilse-qp3mb]

My mom also,just Horrible

[@sandysouthward3635]

I am so sorry for your family's loss.

[@Bloem777]

His wife...she has something special. What a very very sweet strong lady. God bless this fam.

[@xxboonisbadfortnitexx1549]

Yelp

[@xxboonisbadfortnitexx1549]

10-4 good buddy remember keep on trucking and keep the rubber side truck driver

[@marilynvallance]

Definitely needs to be more awareness of this deadly condition.

[@luciaconn6788]

I had this, took an ambulance in as I wanted to be admitted, hallucinating, couldn't walk for the pain. 106 temp. Big antibiotic infusion sent my BP down to undetectable levels. Dead white blood cells gummed up the works. Vaso-constrictors & 20 lbs of IV fluid had me going home in 3 days. I'm elderly and so studied up. Massive douses of vitamin C & lots of fluids on the onset helps. Example B was another attack... took C, also cider vinegar, sun light, got better. Do not take any medication. I question vaso-constrictors. Hope a new therapy is developed soon. PS If you've had this once your chances of getting it again increase over the general population. No immune suppressors for allergies, no steroids

[@marilynvallance]

@Megi Dora 👍

[@marilynvallance]

@Megi Dora I know. I was agreeing with you but iris under reported and many are ignorant of it’s devastating effects.

[@catherinereynolds8061]

Yes, but if the hospital didnt pick it up what chance has the ordinary joe soap got of diagnosing this

[@marilynvallance]

@@catherinereynolds8061 I think that’s why he agreed to the documentary. To raise awareness. Parents know what to look for with meningitis and it’s the sepsis developed from that that causes the amputations.

[@jannwebb]

Same thing happened to my grandson when he was 11 months old. He had chicken pox and strep throat at the same time. The strep went everywhere in his body, even INSIDE his eyeballs! He had only one amputated leg, so he is blessed. He’s 29 now.

[@christinep5684]

My beloved sister and her unborn baby got sepsis and the hospital didn’t catch it at the beginning. She came into the hospital 5am with an uncontrollable chill and they thought she had a miscarriage ( no baby heartbeat). By noon her condition deteriorated. 3pm they took the baby out of the womb. She never woke up. I am glad a miracle happens with your family. Embrace your loved ones🙏💕

[@donnacain9692]

Heart breaking, so very sorry for your loss 🙏💐

[@susanbennett9062]

The way she smiles at him when he is asking her the questions....what woman. What a wife. ❤

[@chin_chiller]

I am seriously overwhelmed. What a brave man! Nothing but respect for him and his amazing wife!

[@sandramanton4036]

My 23year old son died from pneumonia/septicaemia.His death was so sudden! This happened in December 1998 and even after all these years, it feels like yesterday!!! The sadness and pain of his passing is today, no different then it was back in 1998! I am so glad that you survived and have a loving wife and kiddies who love and care about you. God bless.

[@blueseptember2174]

Sandra I'm heartbroken to hear about your son. So sorry. It's unreal how quickly things can go wrong. Hopefully all these shared experiences just might save someone's life going forward.

[@donnacain9692]

🙏💐

[@user-vg6pj2my2n]

A big hug from one bereaved mom to another. I am so sorry the pain is still so intense. You probably have PTSD as well. It must have been huge torture to witness you child suffering so much. Have you heard of The Compassionate Friends? It is a by and for bereaved parents support group. It is international so there is probably a chapter in your area. And it is free and there is no weird underlying agenda to it. Just bereaved parents supoorting each other. If you don't already go, I suggest you try it. No one understands how deep the pain is except other bereaved parents. We share coping skills with each other and survive the anniversaries knowing we have friends who get it. All of the best to you in your grief journey. ❤

[@Ilse-qp3mb]

My mom, Accute Respiratory Disease, ARDS due to septicemia

[@hannahchristine2709]

He is so lucky to have such a loving family there to support him through this. All my best wishes to him and his family!

[@richardlawson6787]

But terribly unlucky to get this

[@TitanTubs]

So very lucky.. imagine if he was abandoned.

[@cindibarton1167]

I'm lucky also after my surgery my leg was never right again and my daughter's been a rock for me

[@cindibarton1167]

@@TitanTubs oh I know I lived on my own until my daughter found an apartment for me here about a mile away from her which before I lived about 250 mi from her and I was on my own and I couldn't drive I couldn't take care of myself

[@lesiGayle]

Still an amazing family! Still strong! I survived sepsis when I was in my 20's and am currently fifty- six. I had all of the symptoms and was lucky enough to have a doctor who immediately realized I needed hospital. I was fortunate to make a full recovery without catastrophic results. Bless you all!

[@amandaadkins3524]

I also had sepsis in 2016 at age 40yo. I thought I had the flu..body aches, fever, stayed in bed. Unbeknownst to me, my husband was unable to keep me awake and was attempting to give me capfuls of water as my fever was close to 103°F. About 1am, my teenage daughter urged him to call an ambulance and I almost declined to go to the hospital, yet the paramedics said better to go since they were there. I was shocked when I heard I was being admitted for sepsis due to an undetected kidney infection. My blood work came back as someone who had just had a heart attack (my organs were starting to shut down). My daughter saved my life. I suffer from several autoimmune disorders and had been hospitalized several times before (gran mal seizures, encephalopathy) and I am grateful my infection was caught and treated. My heart goes out to this family and this strong woman and mother!!

[@johanna2690]

@@amandaadkins3524 Bless your daughter!

[@olivia6063]

My mother survided sepsis twice. She was 59 the first time, then 66 the second time. She also survived a horrible car crash in Thailand, broke her collar bone, ribs and a leg. She got better ran a marathon when she was 73. So healthy. Then mum got cancer. She was so fit, healthy, just some stomach problems. She was diagnosed in february and passed away in may. We thought she would live to be 100 years old, at least. Sepsis and cancer scares me.

[@gloriamaryhaywood2217]

@@olivia6063 Sepsis scares me even more than cancer, and that's saying a Lot considering I've had Both. I survived Stage 3 triple negative breast cancer, but the aggressive chemo which caused my Sepsis almost did me in!! Never, ever have I been so sick in my entire Life!!😷😱

[@realcanadiangirl64]

@@amandaadkins3524 A kidney infection is what prompted mine as well. I'm from Canada and I was down in New Jersey celebrating American Thanksgiving with my partners family. I had to be admitted into the hospital and placed on a heart machine as well as antibiotics. The hospital bill was over $100 K. It's a good thing that I had purchased travel insurance before I left. I'm so happy to hear that you're better

[@debbiecrothers416]

I know how sepsis is. I had it 4 yrs ago. I had a kidney stone, didnt know it. Died in my moms living room. 5 days in icu life support and survived . Praying for this man and his family every day

[@itriedtoeatmyphone7619]

I had sepsis after my first round of chemo and was in the ICU for 10 days. I was so fortunate to make it out. One of my coworkers had sepsis two years ago and is a quadruple amputee. She is an amazing person and is doing so well now.

[@user-vg6pj2my2n]

My first round of chemo hospitalized me too. I don't think I got sepsis though. But boy was I sick. Emergency reception didn't listen to me and were rude. I waited with the general population for ages, which is very dangerous for chemo patients. Things changed once the doctors saw me. They'd given me too strong a dose of chemo. Once I recovered, they resumed with a lower dose.

[@EllieM_Travels]

I had a blood bacterial infection shutting down my organs until they discovered what it was and gave me Ceftriaxone through a picc line, then open heart surgery. I was in the hospital 3 months. You have my full empathy, and I’m so glad you’re still alive and enjoying your family!

[@noellebaroman1091]

damn i’m a medical student and knowing that most of these patients go into depression and ultimately suicide, the amount of strength he has to go through all the pain and frustrations of not being able to do things like before. i applaud you. i hope for the best for you and your family

[@doctordiscord8063]

Normally in medicine his state is where we put the patient on comfort care, remove the live support and let them die peacefully, his chance of actually surviving were about let's say 5% and even if he survives (like he did) He aint gonna have a too good quality of live scince as a quadrouple amputee that constantly struggles with illnesses and generally doing things you don't have that much fun or happiness

[@ritaholland1549]

@@doctordiscord8063 íjjùjjjjjjùùù8⁷

[@janedoex1398]

@ Boelle Baroman And the almost "ironic" thing is that often the pressors if not DIC or the Meningitis ( which lead to Sepsis) itself will lead to amputation . To keep the heart pumping and the BP high enough, you are basically slicing an inch off with every 0.05 mg of Epi / Supra over a certain dose , that you might even have to raise to keep the BP and HR stable... I've seen TBI patients react if someone touched the line from the Pressor - pump and have it swing 5 cm back and forth slightly during re- positioning ( even during Minimal Handling allowed) and their BP went from 75/ 100 to 200 to 100 , back to 80/ 115 within 30 seconds. Without anyone moving the pump, the line etc. But that 10 seconds during 200/ 100 were scary AF for a nursing student. But you HAVE to touch patients even at " MINIMAL HANDLING", you have to do certain things so it was unavoidable. All while the whole 30- 45 degree head elevation angle depending on the stage was in place, vitals could change in an instant and the Pt. was still being cooled down by the "bear hugger" to 35,4 - 35.5 degrees ( Celsius) or 35.8 - 36.5 degrees [core temp] or wherever they were on their process, to maybe hopefully being able to be put the head - end of the bed down 5 degrees or the artificial breathing is switched to where it registers shallow breaths and synchs them to the patient's unsufficient, unsteady but noticable rythm, and maybe in a day let us try to reduce the pressors 0.001 mg at the Doc's notice, every change communicated immediately. I never was so happy or devastated at some tiny changes - as an EEG revealing the swelling now shifted the left ventricles 1/2 over the middle line or whatever. Spaces for.... everything seem to be so "narrowed down" at the ICU.

[@Justicia007]

@@doctordiscord8063 No. This is a disturbing comment, both inaccurate and very discouraging. Loss of limbs is not a reason to put a patient on comfort measures! With love and support people that have catastrophic illnesses and resulting loss of limbs can lead a full life and be happy. They're an inspiration!

[@doctordiscord8063]

@@Justicia007 it's not the limbs part it's the severe septic shock that caused severe organ damage that led to his limbs having to be amputated

[@seanmc4789]

What a strong women and wife. He is a really lucky guy.

[@cincoy3679]

There million of people that live there man.

[@user-bw3fl7fj9w]

He obviously felt the same way about her, especially when she told him that surgery was the only option to stay with her and the kids!

[@Idaliasantana68]

That’s trade we women exercise more often than men do.

[@user-be9eb7gs6o]

@@Idaliasantana68 Where I live, women wouldn't do such thing. So it depends where you live.

[@vinayrao863]

He is not lucky but cursed. His wife too

[@philipmason3218]

I can't begin to imagine what that poor man went through. His bravery and determination is unbelievable. I salute you Mick.

[@Jnanabase]

Wow to have TWO people go through the same circumstance, and both recovered well mentally and physically, good to see!

[@Sock_Puppet_Muppet_Slots]

I just got out of the hospital from having sepsis, I got lucky, they caught early. I still spent a month in hospital. Good luck my friend with your new journey!

[@amyk9813]

How did you catch it?

[@Sock_Puppet_Muppet_Slots]

@@amyk9813 doctors had no idea. They said I could have got it from clipping my toenails.

[@flxmkr]

Sliver Fox was it caused from a compromised immune system? Are some people more prone to it than others? My first reaction was "I'm tossing my nail clippers!", but it's just as dangerous not to clip. I could stab my husband in the leg with my overgrown toenail and then he could get it. This is so scary!

[@Sock_Puppet_Muppet_Slots]

@@flxmkr no, my immune system is great. The bug that caused my sepsis was staphylococcus which lives on your skin, sometimes it gets into the blood through cuts/scrapes and can cause an infection in the blood(sepsis). It’s something that took me by surprise. I never expected it. Went to emergency, they did a whole lot of blood tests, hooked me up to I.V antibiotics said come back tommorow at noon. By 7:45am the next day I got a feverish call to get back to the hospital ASAP. That’s when they told me the bloodwork came back as sepsis at this point and it was found in my heart. Vet, very close call, but just for what I thought was a bad flu, turned out to being a month in the hospital. I was as the doctors said incredibly lucky and actually said I must have a good immune system to have gotten away with it. Just pulled from the jaws of death.

[@Sock_Puppet_Muppet_Slots]

@@flxmkr or you could just keep your toenails clipped. :)

[@v0idk1tty]

When he asked what the other option was, my heart broke. You can tell he doesn't want to, who would? But man that.. he's got such a lovely wife and kids. I couldn't imagine.

[@mooney9046]

Yes. Heartbreaking. It looks like he did so many activities before he got sick too...God Bless this couple.

[@LivingDeadGurlXXX]

I'm very fortunate to still be here. I've had Sepsis 13 times. I almost bit the bullet in 2018...it was frightening that one. Had bacterial meningitis. I knew immediately it was Sepsis from all the previous times I had it. Tremors, chills, tachycardia, fever, rapid breathing and feeling off. I remember the neck stiffness and taking care of my toddler. Taking him to his GI appointment I felt even more ill as time went on. My watch kept alerting me to seek emergency care. My resting heart rate was 208. My fever 104 and I'm there with my toddler alone. I remember the fear of what to do...I thank God his grandmother was able to pick him up and she took me to the ER. I felt all my organs hurting terribly. I went into septic shock. Rapid response attended me, administered levophed, my blood pressure kept dropping and dropping....I was soo close. I thank God I made it. Developed post Sepsis syndrome and had to relearn how to do things. But I survived thank God...just praying I keep living.

[@harismohammad2005]

13 times are you not under a specialist? Do you have a care plan? That’s a lot of times.

[@LivingDeadGurlXXX]

@@harismohammad2005 I have specialists, the hospital I go to is not the best. I'm very immunocompromised and have severe crohns disease i have a lot of other comorbidities that dont help my situation. I tend to get infections a lot that unfortunately progress to Sepsis. It doesn't help that I'm allergic to soo many antibiotics either. Allergic to amoxicillin, Levaquin, cipro, vancomycin, gentamycin, cephalosporins. It's not easy treating me. My Sepsis has come from abscesses from my crohns, from group B Staph, from meningitis, from an RSV that turned into a bronchial pneumonia and then into Sepsis, A LOT of picc line infections because I'm highly allergic to the tegaderm and it turns into an Infectious dermatitis that then creeps into the site (I have a port now thank God) and alot of complicated UTIs because I have severe urinary retention from nerve damage due to intrathecal chemo and now need a pacemaker for my bladder to rely on emptying. I've been through hell and continue to live through hell. I'm soo young and have been through the ringer. Just grateful to be here and grateful to not have had anything amputated. I just live with nerve damage, pain, parasthesias and neuropathy. I thank the lord every day I'm still breathing despite the circumstances. I'm very grateful for what I have even if it's a lot going on...I still have my limbs and am alive. Hope it continues that way. I'd love to see my kids grow up it's my reason to keep on going. 🙏

[@bluebutterflywoman]

I’m so sorry for all you’re going through. I pray you also live a long life and can be there for your children. My son almost died of sepsis earlier this year, he’s only 26.

[@harismohammad2005]

@@LivingDeadGurlXXX It’s sounds like a very difficult life and something I couldn’t begin to understand, but I see that a lot of the issues regarding infections arise from you being immune compromised due to the immunosuppressants you take for Crohn’s. It doesn’t help either that you’re allergic to so many antibiotics. If you haven’t already got a care plan for suspected infections you should discuss it with your specialists usually care plans can allow you to have personalised care much faster as compared to being in an ED for example and they can tell doctors what you need for symptoms you might experience. I truly do wish the best for you hopefully you do live to see your children become adults and see their children become adults as well and the name does suit.

[@nicole4659]

What causes septic

[@loriwhinery3210]

My husband got sick thinking it was the flu that progressed to hospitalization and almost 106 temp and failing kidneys with a diagnosis of sepsis, we still don’t know how it started but I’m so thankful to our Lord he’s ok. My husband was stubborn and kept saying I’ll be ok but we finally made him go. I’m so thankful your husband is alive and with his family.

[@somethingkindawonderful3034]

When someone is that sick .. they have no idea how sick they are. Confused

[@a.azazagoth5413]

This man should be held up as what all men should aspire to. Kind, brave, strong, understanding and someone you’d love to have a beer with. God bless the entire family!

[@Bambotb]

This is what lack of vitamin D and minerals like magnesium can do to you

[@shimmer8289]

My mom died of sepsis. You are right that it's often missed. I noticed a big change in her when I visited she'd lost orientation and her breathing was rapid and shallow. I called two of her carers in and said I think my mom is sick. They said noooo she's fine. Sadly she died that night after being transported to hospital. People if you see your loved one markedly sick raise all hell, visit another hospital, request a second opinion. I will always feel sad I didn't call 911. Lesson learned. Great to see you fought through Mick.

[@lilyjones86]

I would absolutely love an update on this beautiful family and how he’s doing after trialing the prosthetic legs. And I have to say everyone in this story are so amazing. They have personalities made of gold. Thank you for sharing your story & spreading awareness! It is so important to see a doctor and to make sure your concerns are addressed. ❤

[@biscuitbuilder27]

There is an update now!! ❤

[@Jes-Lynne]

What a strong woman and wife - so confident, supportive, logical, clear headed. I mean, it is what you do - when the going gets tough, the tough get going - but still, to think of how many people would've just been an unstable, unhelpful mess - she's the type of person you'd want at your side in a situation like this ❤

[@IwasBlueb4]

iM unstable and suffer from PTSD, BUT I am a calm lioness, when my loved ones need help

[@cecileroy557]

@@IwasBlueb4 Me too!!!

[@CanadianBisdak]

I almost died of sepsis too. I can imagine how hard this family is going through.

[@zellanutellaa]

How did you get it?

[@TheLadybughug]

As did I. Kidney stones went septic. It was a wild ride.

[@maggieboo8142]

I had sepsis several years ago I had a fall and cut my leg and developed sepsis I was given 48 hours to live if I didn't have treatment straight away,thank the Lord I made it, I was in hospital for nearly 6weeks in that time I had a out of body experience my life was never the same again I appreciate life and my love ones more and more each day ❤ God bless this dear man, my prayers are with him and his dear family, love to them all 💞🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@gonzaloarvietti7189]

what the fuq is sepsis how you got it?

[@Melenanbarbie]

@@maggieboo8142 how long after your fall did you receive treatment?

[@nickio.5513]

The one nurse wiped tears from her eyes while saying goodbye, that’s an exceptional nurse.

[@oddanneout]

Editing

[@liamdubalmusic]

@@oddanneout it's called having heart

[@tatianaschoenfield9819]

I am sure they were all exceptional nurses, not be measured just by the tears they shed.

[@wordscaninspire114]

My dad was actually let out of a NHS hospital vomiting with sepsis! So the following day the ambulance got him back in, and into ICU, and wasn't expected to make it through the night. But thankfully he did. I am so grateful he survived. But many hours were spent at home with him delirious and weak, with me wondering what to do, as he'd just been let out of hospital. I'm grateful the NHS saved his life, but he was discharged with this and it was admitted by the hospital. Sepsis is fast to develop. Too often overlooked.

[@IwasBlueb4]

damn hospital....who could let someone go home, VOMITTING with Sepsis...They RE the ones to blame for many losing their lives...NEGLIGENCE

[@zie9171]

My God. I sm dumbfounded. I would go beserk.

[@PBMS123]

What pure pure absolute love. I'd be so lucky to find someone to find someone with even 25% the love for me and she had for him.

[@consuelom6691]

This story is a very moving example of the love and courage of Mick and his family. His new friend Matthew, who encouraged Mick to keep going is also a wonderful example for all of us.

[@jennag4541]

Well said 😁

[@Earthlybell]

I almost lost my husband to sepsis right after we had our first daughter. I’ve never seen him so sick in that hospital bed, and we thought there was nothing out of the ordinary too until he was in too much pain to talk. I’m grateful I have him everyday, because we really came so close to losing him. Bless these families. Hopefully the next person who watches this will go to the hospital ASAP no matter the monetary cost.

[@zellanutellaa]

I am extremely sorry for your loss I hope you and your daughter are doing okay to this day How did he get sepsis?

[@mydjmode]

@@zellanutellaa She almost lost her husband! Meaning he made it through! Hope that clears it up for you friend!

[@zumurudlilit]

In normal countries you don’t worry about costs bc people know sth like that can happen to anybody at anytime and health care is for everybody thanks to state insurance.

[@valdeneteal5166]

Not me. No medical insurance at the moment!

[@mihaiduma4179]

They are such a strong and beautiful family! Much respect for the family and doctors who were giving everything they had to keep this man alive.

[@valoriekenney743]

This should have 600,000,000 likes and more! Congratulations on your survival. My friend is a quadriplegic and is a shining light in his community. He works and shares his wisdom with friends and family. This family is such an inspiration. So strong!

[@tokkiedenbakker9138]

ÀQÀQQÀ

[@dianakate5808]

One sign of sepsis is constantly being cold and nothing will make you warm. You have to fight for your care in the ER. They just want you out of there. (I'm a nurse and had septic shock)

[@helloyall4355]

I believe it. I went in the ER in severe pain, throwing up and diarrhea. They said i went septic. Thank God my daughter who is an ER nurse from a different hospital, started drilling the on staff nurses and doctors. She told them "you need 4 burses putting in IV'S, a one hr window and a doctor in her room." She stayed on the. Like stink on shit. She saved my life by being my advocate.

[@nomdeplume2213]

You have to fight in the drs office as well. Drs want you in and out even more there... drs and nurses just dont listen... its infuriating. I died giving birth to my oldest for 19 mins due to my dr refusing to believe me. I kmew i had pre eclampsia and she kepts saying it was my diet making me gain 20 lbs a week.... turned into full blown eclampsia, seizures and no heart rate for 19 mins, i hadan emergency csection with no anesthesia or pain meds AT ALL. was completely awake, felt everything.... its been 16 yrs and im still in therapy trying to overcome it.

[@rukmaniramaswamy2546]

Ijplkvnfgg I will try it and let

[@karinahall4915]

It happened to me too. Nurses wanted me out of ICU, only surgeon was on my side. I survived, still can't believe how close it was to not being here today.

[@noobie7719]

You are absolutely correct, if you or a friend or family member are unable to advocate for you, it’s not UNFAIR to say, you’re in trouble! And that includes inpatient status…I too am an RN.

[@brettwimmer5011]

I'm really upset that the doctor sent him home on Christmas without diagnosing him with strep. God bless this family. Its so inspiring that they have such a positive outlook on such a negative situation.

[@desertflower3895]

Did he receive the covid injection 💉?

[@tracygaluszynski1868]

Socialized medicine.

[@flowergirlabc123]

Most men WON'T go to the Dr or hospital unless they are extremely ill or think they are dying. It's stubbornness and a fear of being ill or incapacitated. When a man tells me they are sick and WANT to get to the Dr., I know things are serious! Follow through with all the testing.

[@linanicolia1363]

He would have had to do a culture and the lab was likely closed.

[@Scratchingforcash]

Anyone getting married deserves a wife like this. Wow! What an amazing woman! I hope Mick and the family are doing better and I truly am praying for your whole family. Mick has amazing parents too, both his and her parents.

[@KiwikimNZ]

Well done mick your a legend! As a nurse of 25 years I can appreciate what you have been through. A bloody rough road mate. Good to see you and the family smiling and making the most of everyday! Best of luck you guys your all amazing x

[@t.g.7180]

If the ER hadn't sent him home, would he have gotten better?

[@KiwikimNZ]

@@t.g.7180 totally inadequate care …. They should be ashamed of themselves. Sciatic diagnoses ??The fact that he had a sore throat should be red flags. You would still consider DVT (blood clot ) due to the pain in that one leg, and they should have done routine bloods straight away and those bloods should have been directly sent to the lab. How can an emergency dept not have a lab on site ?? Not good enough. If he had of got iv antibiotics the first night he would have had a far better outcome!

[@t.g.7180]

@@KiwikimNZ right. That’s what I was thinking. I went to the ER last summer & they did all sorts of test on me including blood work. So sad for this guy

[@MaraStephenson]

The big problem is people do not believe when someone is complaining with pain. They think is nothing, or the illness go away easily. We just need to have more empathy when someone is suffering.

[@Ginny71166]

OR they assume a pt is drug-seeking.

[@sallyjohnson5985]

@@Ginny71166 yep the scourge of drug addiction has jaded the medical profession of any one who needs opioids for pain. And some of these addicts have been created by incompetent medical practitioners!

[@DR-nh6oo]

Mooonchild711 Or they know you are, or have been, a drug user and deem you unworthy of dignity or even life.

[@DR-nh6oo]

Nice Guy Only a psychopath would not help someone in pain with a likely deadly condition, no excuse.

[@kristimcgowandarkoscellard3126]

Oh you are so right about that!! I spent 15 years in and out of doctors offices and ER’s in excruciating pain which no one could figure out, so it must be in my head, right 😡 My intestines finally exploded and a wonderful ER surgeon saved my life!!! No one can tell me exactly what caused this, but obviously something was wrong all along! I am so grateful to the ER surgeon who saved my life and I have not been back to a doctor in 3 years!! The problem is how they are trained! They are trained if certain tests come back negative then there isn’t anything wrong with you, when nothing could be further from the truth! Doctors need to LISTEN TO THEIR PATIENTS! Cheers

[@lexiechainey5375]

His wife is an AMAZING person. She loves him more than anything

[@charlenefriesen8286]

I am so happy to see this story! I was a victim of sepsis also! I was having awful periods after I had my twins c section. They were about 2years old and every time they would run up to me and hit my stomach and it would hurt. When I had my period I would flare up with a burnt itchy vagina. I went to my gynecologist in November of 2000 for my first flare up he did not know what was going on so he gave me some cream to use. Once my period was over it sorta was clearing up so I thought. I was miserable still but better. Come December 29 I had my period and it completely burnt and my vagina was so swollen and burnt. Doctor sent me to a cancer surgeon to do a biopsy of my uterus because now my uterus was enlarged. They ruled out me being pregnant right away then he did a biopsy of my uterus. I had the biopsy at 11 am and went back to my very busy job. The next day was New Year’s Eve and I was having a big part so I was going to go to shop after work. By 5pm I was feeling so bad, no fever, back ache and diarrhea. Since it was flu season I thought oh why me now that I was expecting 40 people over for the part. I finally called my husband to tell him im so sick I can’t go to the store he said come home and we would deal with the grocery’s the next day. When I got home I was then throwing up. I went to sleep for a while but at 1 am my heart was racing so bad I told my husband that he needed to call an ambulance because I thought I was having a heart attack at 41 with 3 little children and a crazy busy job I was sick and I knew my body was telling me something was wrong. When the ambulance got there I was in shock and couldn’t open my eyes but I could hear and talk. He asked me if I was in a suntan bed that day because I had a pattern on my chest which I did notice but I thought it was because I was throwing up. As soon as I got to the hospital emergency the infectious disease doctor said she has sepsis but they did not know were it was at. The only thing that they could think of was my uterus based on what I had told them. My organs were shutting down and they raced me upstairs to stick antibiotics directly in my heart and neck and once I was stable in two days they did exploratory surgery and everything but the uterus being enlarged so they did a full hysterectomy and I immediately stRted getting better. The pathologist came in y room a few days later and said that it was my uterus it was so torn up by the twins a bacteria set in and was contained in my uterus and ovaries and once the doctor did the biopsy on my uterus it opened the line of bacteria into my blood stream. If I would have waited 1”2 more hour I would have been to far gone to live. I had to share my story because the infectious desires doctor had never seen a case like mine. I ran into him about 15 years later and he actually remembered me because he said he had to go home and read up on toxic shock sepsis because he had never had a case like mine. I was only in ICU for 4 days and in the hospital for 12. My only side affect now is my blood pressure is high all the time due to my pressure bottoming out it just recouped to high so I’m on 3 types of medicines for high blood pressure. I’m so glad you shared this because I thought mine was a flu bug not a dangerous disease!! I’m glad this gentleman lived so his kids would remember er him and I triple happy I lived for my 3 girls.

[@sapnabhargava2865]

God bless u dear soul...

[@razzledazzle561]

Thank you sharing this story!! So informative 🙏🏽 so happy you survived and able to recover

[@MM-vb9ze]

Thank you for sharing. 😢

[@user-vg6pj2my2n]

All the best to you and your's. I am so glad your survived. And yes, it is an important story to share. I can tell by the way you write you are still traumatized. And no wonder. Thank goodness you made it and your family still has you. ❤

[@user-oe7pn5hw2t]

..

[@eilenekellogg-ki2br]

My daughter had sepsis. She was running a high fever, her body was swelling up in some parts. The doctors wanted to release her. But thank God the Rn. That was in charge told the Dr. No that she wasnt well enough. They had her on two different antibiotics, and other meds. After 3 days she was able to go home.

[@elizabethcurcio9044]

Thank God they listen to that nurse !!!

[@rebeccamichelturner]

My Dad had a septic infection a few years ago that grew vegetation on his heart valve and broke off, traveling to his brain causing mini-strokes. Thankfully, he survived (though he needed a valve replacement) and is doing well today

[@professionalcommenter]

Bacterial Endocarditis?

[@davidtryon1205]

I had this in 2015 thankfully no strokes. Then again in 2019. No strokes. But still have the vegetation on my tricuspid valve. All their tests say I'm right on the border of replacing valve now, or take chances and wait. Because of my age, the valve would have to be replaced again. Got out of hospital in Dec 19 from 2nd infection. Finally they were starting to lean towards replacement, then covid hit. And its been put off again. I've gone to 3 different hospitals and gotten different opinions each time. I'm scared of open heart surgery, but I'm scared of strokes too. So idk.

[@rebeccamichelturner]

@@davidtryon1205 makes sense. There's risks either way. Best of luck sorting it out with your doctor. And never be afraid to get a second opinion as well

[@davidtryon1205]

I also have a ventricular septal defect, I was born with. The 2015 infection I was septic the first night. I had waited so long, I had peticahe on my feet and legs and was sick and had chills daily for a few weeks before going. That first night, they made me sign all this paperwork in case I didn't make it. Then around 3am I was shivering cold, they couldn't get a temperature anywhere normal. Finally they got it at 93.7f, nurses started running around calling different things out, put some machine on me blowing hot air. Scariest time ever. The 2nd infection in 19 I had gone as soon as I felt something wrong, short of breath, they did blood work found nothing, sent me home, called me back 8 hours later to tell me the blood cultures were positive again and I needed to get there right away. So another almost 3 months with a picc line. But never wait is the truth. If something isnt right, check on it.

[@davidtryon1205]

@@rebeccamichelturner thank u. Yea I've gotten 3 opinions now after 5.5 years. And finally they may act. Its freaky when even they disagree with each other. The 1 that's gonna move forward is a big city hospital. The other 2 were suburban hospitals, but good ones well as far as I know after 30+ years. Thank u for advice and care.

[@dotty1220]

1.22 minutes in when Catherine said "I love you" and he faintly smiled is all you need to know! With love, someone can get through anything ❤

[@Suffragent]

What an incredible family. He’s an inspiration. His wife is also an absolute star. I’m humbled.

[@cplmpcocptcl6306]

Me too. Well said.

[@jamesstreet228]

I've heard skin grafts are more painful than a bone graft and I've had a bone graft from my side to my left forearm and it was the worst pain I have ever felt. A cough was excruciating, a sneeze, I don't even wanna think about that. Without a doubt Mick has been through pure hell. He's very lucky to have a loving family for support and a friend who has been through it himself. I know a woman who cut her leg and it led to sepsis and she died from it. Sepsis is SERIOUS.

[@wintergirl8]

Yeah, I had bone taken from my iliac crest to help fix my tibia and the pain afterwards was horrific. Way worse than the initial trauma, and that was bad.

[@Marcia.Marcia.Marcia]

My daughter survived sepsis, thank God with everything intact. She had a UTI and put off going to the Dr due to her workload. Mick and his family are so inspiring!

[@texastea5686]

Thank goodness she didn't get any amputations. !

[@Michelle-zz7no]

Wow!! I tell people UTI’s are nothing to mess with! Get it treated!!

[@rosiej9231]

@@Michelle-zz7no many people don’t realize that UTIs are serious business. Untreated can lead to kidney infections and sepsis. My friend with metastatic cancer had a UTI which led to sepsis, then pneumonia, which she succumbed to.

[@Marcia.Marcia.Marcia]

@@rosiej9231 so sorry for your loss.

[@Marcia.Marcia.Marcia]

@@Michelle-zz7no right! Me too!

[@alissatyau849]

Very scary! I get mad at doctors all the time when I'm sent home from a hospital visit, screaming in pain, and they say go see someone else, and not give you anything for the horrific pain! I did that for 2 years, and then finally was diagnosed with BOTH HIPS FRACTURED! Our Healthcare has gone down the tube, especially for pain patients!

[@xxboonisbadfortnitexx1549]

Yelp

[@xxboonisbadfortnitexx1549]

I agree

[@circusofsix]

females (cis and trans) are especially dismissed for their legitimate pain.

[@wokenmillennial]

Yep! In UK i had two wisdom tooth removes during the lockdown so i had be awake and only had injected anaesthetic whilst awake and had them hammered and pulled out - sent home with nothing - i fell asleep and woke up and all the temporary surgical anaesthetic had worn off i was screaming and writhing in pain my face had swollen massively i was sweating and faint my mum rushed me back to the hospital where i had it removed - i had fainted at this point - i woke up on a drip and was given morphine via drip aswell as a host of painkillers and was discharged three hours later with appropriate medication - awful conduct.

[@TubeSurfer10]

I agree and cannot thumbs up this situation, you can blame the drug addicts for that. After breaking bones through no fault of my own, I was gobsmacked at the fact it was difficult to obtain pain killers that were effective to cope with the level of pain that comes from dual surgery.

[@paulklem9249]

My sister died from this. It took 3.5 days for them to figure it out. I think they were in denial. She lost her scalp and ears and her kidneys were shutting down. The family decided to let her go. She would not have made it. I am grateful to see these amazing people coming through this. Amazing. I so wish they had the diagnostic tools. One thing that made the people in the hospital dismissive of my sister was that she was a recovering alcoholic who had a relapse and needed stitches because she fell while intoxicated . The next day she collapsed from weakness, upset stomach, shivering and was rushed back to emergency . They failed to recognize the seriousness of her condition dismissing her like she needed to sleep it off and that she did this to herself. Days later in ICU they confirmed the worst fears. She was kept in a coma due to the pain. She was a wonderful woman who made others shine. She was a drug and alcohol counselor who was weeks away from retirement with a large family who adored her.

[@skygazer6898]

I am blown away by the positivity, love and attitude of Mick and his family. I hope the sun always shines brightly on each and everyone of them

[@m4rv3lla69]

I honestly hope they sued the first hospital. Those hours between their first visit and the second could have saved his limbs. Truly heartbreaking. Katherine is a very strong woman supporting and keeping her whole family together in these trying times.

[@harismohammad2005]

You can’t necessarily sue the hospital for the fact he got sepsis. He never had sepsis at the time he was in the hospital on his first visits rather he presented with muscular pain, it’s strange that they discharged him when his pain had not improved but ultimately because they did not discharge him when he had obvious signs of sepsis it’s not actually their fault, if he had been as unwell as he was on the second visit and they discharged him that would be a case for both suing and and a serious incident investigation. Doctors can only work with what they have not what’s to come; if a child presents with minor breathing difficulty and is discharged with an inhaler then later falls into respiratory distress and dies, it’s not necessarily the hospitals fault because it’s expected the inhaler would have worked.

[@cindibarton1167]

Yeah but it doesn't really work like that-I had a total hip replacement and the doctor messed up my sciatic nerve so now I have fat palsy from up above my knee all down my leg which is irreversible and I went to tons of lawyers they said they wouldn't take my case cuz it wasn't solid

[@KittraKittra]

A simple blood test should have been done.

[@margotmargot4426]

@@harismohammad2005 he was discharded when he was not well, so they should have kept him for monitoring. Yes, it's their faults, too many superficial people and too many mistakes in the lifeordeath-system, let's not make them gods that are always right. If a technician makes a mistakes your tv might not work, but if a doctors does you can die, so we, the people, should demand more meritocracy and high quality for something that is not free of charge and may kill us.

[@margotmargot4426]

@@KittraKittra exactly, why they say it's not easy to diagnose, you do the VES and the Protein C reactive.. very common tests to see infections, also the white cells count .. I'm perplexed by what this doctor said in the video.

[@proudlakerfan]

Fourteen years ago, I had a small bump in my gum which I ignored cause it didn't really hurt. A few days later I started feeling sick with fever and night shivers. I thought at that time that maybe I had the flu but my condition got worse and I started vomiting and my vision got so blurry. My family rushed me to the ER where they found out that I had low BP and rapid heart rate. It turned out that I was already suffering from sepsis and if my family hadn't taken me to the hospital sooner the doctor said that I could've had a stroke and probably never made it. This is how fast and serious sepsis is. Immediate medical attention is key to the patient's survival. The bump in my gum turned out to be an abscess from an old root canal and the infection had gotten into my bloodstream. I feel so thankful and fortunate that my family acted with urgency which saved my life.

[@HeyItsFrankie]

Devastatingly we lost my younger brother 3 years ago after he developed MRSA and became Septic. Seven weeks prior he had had open heart surgery. He was diabetic but wasn’t placed on antibiotics as a precaution upon leaving the hospital (we were later told that antibiotics aren’t normally prescribed after open heart surgery). At his 6 week check up, though he was tired, the incision sight looked fine and he was released to go back to work. If bloodwork had been routine at the follow up, a simple CBC would have shown an elevated white blood cell count indicating infection. By the end of the 7th week he was so tired that almost collapsed walking ½ a block and we got him to the ER (at this time me and 2 of my sisters were working full time and providing round the clock care for our terminally ill mother). The infection was all through his body and had weakened the right ventricle wall in his heart and it ruptured. He was rushed to the ER but the massive loss of blood placed him in a vegetative state. My mom was devastated and we lost her in January. He never awoke and we lost him in February. Just like that I lost two of the most important people in my life. Gone. Forever. My heart goes out to these families and anyone that has experienced this. I know you have a true appreciation for life after going through this. Please, everyone look out for each other. May your life be filled with love and laughter.

[@dianetandy1757]

Two amazingly strong men who gave it their all to get back to their families This is such a scary illness and there’s so many times illnesses like this are past over as something else I wish them all they very best for their futures. Truly an inspiration

[@elsie3724]

My grandma had skin grafting done and it was only a “small” patch on her arm. I NEVER knew wtf that would look like but it was 10000x worse than I ever pictured the harvest site would look like. Absolutely so brutal I cannot imagine what this man went through having to lose all of his limbs and then go through all the grafting. Unbelievable. I imagine that was a very, very dark and difficult time for him. I am so glad he has so much support from his wife and family and hope he is doing well.

[@sunnysiderisesup4252]

We must cherish every minute we have on this earth because the next minute in life is promised to no one

[@xxboonisbadfortnitexx1549]

Yelp

[@xxboonisbadfortnitexx1549]

10-4 good buddy remember keep on trucking and keep the rubber side truck driver

[@user-fh7wm3ol5m]

@@xxboonisbadfortnitexx1549 ты

[@cannabis1490]

Thank you!

[@jamiemackenzie5390]

I’ve had sepsis and didn’t even know until now how lucky I am to have been in a hospital when I got it. I was pregnant and lost my baby. But seeing this I realize my husband and daughter could have been left without their wife and mother. It’s inspiring how hard these 2 people have worked to overcome this incredible obstacle.

[@annied1827]

So very sorry for your loss. I know anything I say can't make the loss of your child any easier, I hope you and your family are all doing well

[@Buttersausage]

What were your symptoms?

[@mariaelena1067]

@@Buttersausage ❤ cree

[@mariaelena1067]

Life is not easy, but you need your faith in God. God Bless your family!

[@mariaelena1067]

Amén!

[@dawndyer582]

I have no words that come close to describing how courageous Mick and his mentor are!!! Mick’s wife, thank you for being such an extraordinary person. The support you gave Mick and the passion and dedication you had for your family was the key to getting your family back together. God Bless your family.💕🤗

[@CatCmdr]

I feel for you all. It took me a while to work up to watching this. I had severe sepsis. The last thing I remember was my Daughter and little Grandson at my bedroom door. She called for ambulance, and the next thing I knew, I woke up in hospital, days later. I had been on a ventilator for days. I was very lucky….thanks to some great doctors and nurses! I did end up with a kidney injured from it, but other than loss of a gallbladder & stones blocking my bile ducts, not much else. God Bless you and your Family. YOU are still there! We are not any part of us, we are our soul. I learned from working in hospitals with dying patients, we are not even our roles here, what we do, what we have. We are our Soul. ❤️🌈

[@aimeethomas5674]

What an amazing couple. This story has brought me to tears. I am 36 years old I have had sepsis 3 times in the last two years. I ended up loosing half of my foot. My partner of 18 years wasn't so supportive. Being told I had done this ti myself and I need to sort my life out. My determination to get healthy and mobile were my children. Both of them have severe learning difficulties. My moto in life everyday like its your last. Smile and be happy

[@Deb_BG]

I never even knew this kind of love and courage was possible.

[@Smallville7812]

I like how in this kind of situations the doctors,nurses & other hospital employees come together to show support to whoever is living. Sometimes I think if it was me and they show me that kind of love I will do my best on the road I will have a head to recovery , and I guess is what they experience a peace of mind

[@carloscarion1748]

As I watch this I kept sending blessings to this person, with tears in my eyes, and great admiration and love for his family who are being so supportive, incredible, lovely, life affirming!

[@ChrisKirtley]

As a GP, I will show this to every patient who refuses antibiotics. We always hear about how they are over-used but simple penicillin would have saved all this pain and misery. Amazingly, the Strep bug never develops resistance to it.

[@sonhopson1]

My husband did a medical visit via zoom today for a sinus infection and the GP said she did not prescribe any antibiotics unless you were symptomatic for 12 weeks! I was like, “Have you ever heard of sepsis lady!!” Said thanks for nothing and hung up on her!

[@ClaireNicole33]

@@sonhopson1 i've been fighting to get antibiotics for my sinus infections (currently 4th one since March). They won't even send me to a specialist until I take two nasal sprays for 12 weeks first!! I'm terrified of putting anything in my nose bcuz I have serious brain problems! I feel y'all pain! I hope he can get antibiotics from somewhere else. Urgent care or hospital emergency room? Are y'all scared bc I'm terrified of these sinus infections.

[@teejay8025]

Exactly, it's like they really want people to die of infections nowadays

[@ChrisKirtley]

@@teejay8025 could be! It goes with a general strategy to return us to the Stone Age, supposedly to prevent climate change etc. We are gradually losing our Enlightment civilisation.

[@dittohead7044]

And penicillin is so inexpensive. I’m allergic to it, but there are other meds that are just as effective

[@nickywilks7928]

And may I just add that Catherine is a total warrior. So supportive and kind.

[@girlywench]

It amazes me that you can get through an entire clip about Katharine and Mick and still spell her name wrong.

[@dappppppppt]

I'm still recovering from septic shock. Am extremely lucky to have had a nurse noticing the signs when I was taken to ED and was being treated for cellulitis instead. I was completely normal on the morning, by 2.30pm I couldn't dress myself got into bed and was freezing. My husband took me to the hospital at 5.30pm and I was also given a 20% chance of survival. My memory is also still hazy, and bits are coming back to me. Watching this has definitely helped x

[@bluesville13]

Oh bless this guy and his family. I had Sceptisemia that shocked my body and caused a Burst Auersym. In my main Artery my Aorta. The sceptis they told my brother. The puss had collected at either side of my spine. They were both the size of grapefruits. My brother and friends tell me l looked nothing like me. Obviously l stopped eating lost 2 and a half stone. What makes me angry still is. I called an ambulance. I went they had no empathy. They just xrayed me. My back was killing me. Because your Aorta is towards your back. I did not know that. I arranged another ambulance on the same night. I got told off when the ambulance arrived. This young guy said. We have been to you once. And l said l am going back again. I am feeling so ill. Sick. Temperature humongus pain. My brother went with me. Got there again. Still they found nothing. I called my doctor to my home. She treated me for a bladder infection. I was crying with the pain. She told me in a authoritarian voice SHUT UP CRYING. So time and weeks where passing. I was going down ill. Till one morning my two neghbours who then where nurses. Glen took on look at me and shouted to Sarah his wife Ambulance now. They had my spare key and my friends could not get in but heard me through my letter box. All were shocked. I do not remember much. But when l arrived at the hospital. I can remember seeing 7 figuers. One bent down and said. Do you know where you are. I slowly said , l am not sure. He bent down and said you are in hospital and you are so very poorly. We have had you in a M.R.I Scan and we have found Sceptis that has set off a Burst Anursym. All l remember is going in and out of sleepy states. In short. They put a bag on my side for the sceptis infection to go in before they could operate and repair me. I know this from my brother. I had tubes all over me. Scanned blood transfusions. They put a foreign body over the Auersym it was a material suit. Held with a stent. . I had to learn to walk again. Being in bed for 4 months. Hospital visits. I was doing okay. Then in the early hours of 4th June 2014. I awoke with my heart racing. Clammy and coughing up blood. I rang the ward as l was told l have an open bed policy in case l get ill again. So l was told there is no beds. But Liz ring an ambulance and we will find you a bed. In short l got in and the jacket had been eaten away and fell on to my bowel. . So they said quickly sign the form as we nearly lost you the first time. I was in for 5 months. They opened me up straight downwards from under my breasts to just above my stomach. Had many procedures. Could not each again. But l did after a while. But this has left me with a very painful left leg. For 9 years since the operation. I came out of theatre screaming in pain. I have to lay on my settee al day. As if l stand now. Its the nerve damage cause by the operation. They did a drainage at the top of my left leg. Why l do not know. I was put on morphine and garberpentine. They over time stopped working. After 9 years l came off them in December last year. I went through hell. Even though they have given me patches to wear. And another tablet. Called Dulixatine. I still went through hellish withdrawels. I know l am a very strong willed person. It gave even me a run for my money. Saying all this. I get called a miracle by my consultants But this man and his wife bless them and thier children. His challanges are so high bless them. What a beautiful family. I wish them all the very best. He is one amazing loving man. His wife truly loves him. I list my husband 6 months before l got this illness and l loved him so much. I loved him more. He had an aggressive form of Kidney Cancer. He had the lump taken out. But it came back even worse. He looked at me one day after breakfast and said. Most women would leave a guy in my state. Oh but not my Lizzie.l had our breakfast pots in my hand. I came back with them Got on the floir and clasped both of his hands in mine and looked into his beautiful eyes and l said look Michael. When we married in Church both of us are Christians. I said. I married you for better or for worse. Your not on your own. I am going through this cancer with you. I am with you supporting you all the way. I will never ever leave you. In fact l love you so strongly. Nothing can separated only the obvious. But l will one day be back with him and he with l. He was so brave. I had to do all my crying out of sight of him. Being an ex Bomb Disposal guy. His funeral was full of different friends . Plus he was a scout leader. So l put the R.A.F Flag were his head was. And the Scout flag. Where is legs where. He was older then me he did all of the latter before he met me. Plus he was on the New Years Honours list for a bomb trolley he made . Still used today. Plus his scout work in and out the RAF too. Our Faith is huge to us. I know where he is. Bless his heart. The most honest and loving caring husband my soul mate forever and beyond. Elizabeth in Hull ✝️🙏💚✝️🙏💜✝️🙏💙✝️ 🌷🌷🌷💐🌾🦠🍁🥀💐⚘️

[@wendiwilson2131]

Sepsis is a scary thing. I've had it 3 times, all 3 times in ICU, getting blood transfusions, mass quantities if antibiotics, etc. The last time I had it, in June 2019, I woke up from being in a coma and on life support to find that my right leg was amputated about 4 inches above the knee. I applaud this family for pulling together. That's what keeps attitudes positive and a forward moving progression to a better life. I'm so sorry you have gone through this. It seems so preventable and I'm glad awareness is being introduced more aggressively. God Bless and best wishes to your family!

[@blueseptember2174]

I'm so sorry you went through that. Your attitude is very inspiring. Can I ask how does one get it three times? It sounds like a predisposition?

[@rhywnn]

The look in his daughters eyes tells of the pain not seen. I really feel for her.

[@toypoodle50]

I just had a battle with SPesis, due to an obstruction in my kidney that I wasn't aware of. If you have a UTI get antibiotics straight away. Go to the doctor. I was lucky to get the correct care immediately at Emergency, which saved my life. 3 kidney operations later and 6 months down the road I'm well. All the best to this amazing family. X

[@fightingtosurvive6527]

I'm happy to hear that you're doing well... Please take good care of yourself. 💜💙🌷

[@ilovesuisse1]

Wow, what a family! Hats off to them.

[@annd.h.1336]

I had this, was going to amputate my leg, but I got very lucky, got good Dr. And got a medicine that finally reacted well too. What a brave man❤

[@mares3841]

What medicine was it

[@LKre-vi5oq]

And what a brave you.

[@mdb2879]

*My 27 years old best friend died a year ago because of Meningites. It all happened in 6 hours. Its so surreal still. Rest in peace, my love, see you on the other side*

[@wrizzk4098]

RIP to your bestfriend. Stay strong

[@katymcginn4644]

💜 I'M SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS OF YOUR BEST FRIEND. MAY YOU FIND PEACE 🙏 MAY YOUR FRIEND REST IN LOVE 💜

[@Mizai]

My 15 year old friend died of a rare bactery it happend suddely

[@deemariedubois4916]

AC DC I’m so very sorry for your loss. Just heart breaking.

[@pizzakin9837]

Rest in peace for your freind

[@sense8339]

Sepsis is terrifying. I know it’s very very rare, but the fact that an average bug can lead to what has happened to Mick is unbelievable to me. I admire their strength. I’m very glad that he’s alive and happy with his family!

[@sharonmontano4924]

I don’t think it’s rare at all. Lots of elderly people get cystitis that untreated leads to sepsis and their demise

[@safesoundequine8511]

Strep A can do a lot of horrid things

[@caroljohnsonvaughn6793]

What a family….what a couple. I survived sepsis. I understand and am amazed at this family’s strength. prayers for blessings.

[@rustylove1037]

I can't even make it to the end of this😭😭😭...........oh how much this woman loves him. She's a sweetheart.

[@rimbensalem3260]

My sister in law passed away bcz of this disease, its it's terrible, heart aching .she left a baby girl .happy you fought for your lifee

[@soyboy6953]

I am so sorry for your loss. I am sending well wishes to your family

[@Feoshyt]

I had a similar issue, though I was fortunate to have caught it before it caused permanent damage. I had been sick with what I thought was the flu for a couple of days. It got better, and there was a full day of feeling fine. That night, I started noticing severe pain in my lower back, I have sciatica, so thoughts all it was. All the next day, I was in pain, laying on the couch. It wasn't until after midnight when I couldn't get up to use the washroom that my bf at the time had said if it hurt that bad to call an ambulance. I think he was annoyed and may have thought I was overreacting, I had never been in so much pain. I sat in emergency, in the most uncomfortable metal wheelchair they could find, this thing was made like a grocery shopping cart. I had a history of addiction, so they didn't take me very seriously. 10 hours later, they were ready to discharge me, having found nothing wrong. My fear was how could I possibly take care of myself if I could hardly move. It felt like my muscles and nerves were all on fire. My mother came and said there was no way I could get into her truck, so she told any staff that would listen. Finally, one nurse said that he saw something similar a few weeks before, so on a hunch, he found the infectious disease doctor and brought him over. Everything happened so fast after that. He got a CT scan, mri, ultrasounds, and x-rays of my chest. I had developed endocarditis, which was likely caused by an mrsa infection I'd had 8 months prior. It had gotten into my bloodstream and was poisoning me slowly. It was only when the infection started to attack my spine that it became noticeable. So they admit me immediately and check my organ functions; my kidneys were working at 2% normal capacity, my liver was failing, there was a 'vegitation' of infection on my heart that spit out infected fluid with each heart beat. I also had double pneumonia, with my lungs being full of infection. So, when I was admitted, I was diagnosed with renal failure, pulmonary embolism, endocarditis, spinal damage, and 3 types of blood poisoning or infection. They started antibiotics right away, and within 24 hours, they still didn't know if I would survive. At that point, I was delirious, and I communicated in screams of pain. I swore and yelled out random colors - this was the strangest part - my pain was in color. Green, yellow, and purple, those were the colors I would see. I'm not sure what that was about, lol. I was in hospital for 2 months, I left on my birthday. I feel so fortunate to have lived, even in my darkest days, i am thankful for being alive. I apologize for writing so much on an old video, but I'm in tears remembering how fragile life can be and how quickly our own lives can change. Please take care of yourselves ❤️

[@priscillaalford9711]

So glad that u made such a good recovery. You are right life is so fleeting and precious.

[@stephanies7937]

This family's strength and courage are astronomical!! I simply can't imagine having to go thru such a life-changing experience. I wish them all the luck in the world. 💖💖

[@neighbourhoodwitch18]

My boss has not long recovered from this. A cellulitis infection then led to a flesh-eating bacteria, then sepsis. They had to put him in an induced coma to allow him to recover. Thankfully he's doing great. Our wonderful NHS, yet again! 😊❤️

[@CovidConQuitTheCensorship]

Wow. Hard to watch but Mick and his family are an inspiration. Great to see him still smiling and enjoying his children. If you asked them if they'd choose no Dad or limbless Dad, well that's a no brainer. They still have their beautiful Dad and I get the feeling his disability won't slow him down for long. Wishing you all the best with your recovery Mick. Sharing your story will help get the message out. Oh and your wife is beautiful and amazing. What a lovely lady

[@sherw7635]

Their Love is breathtaking.

[@Silk.With.An.E]

What an amazing story. Those men are absolute beasts mentally and physically! And bravo to the family for being so supportive and loving. Beautiful to see and god bless the medical team for their dedication. Blessings to you all!

[@claudiaargueta3767]

For everyone asking how she managed to get through this so gracefully, its called LOVE 💘

[@jigarp999]

That woman is so F-in brave....it must have taken every cell in her body to stay that strong. Salute.

[@brooke1969]

His wife is incredible , I can’t say I have seen a better example of a supportive wife and encouraging friend , just incredible this family is amazing .. Great job , way to love each other.. strong love

[@jameswallace-vf1tt]

So inspirational. I wish you many years of happiness. We just never know what is around the corner waiting for us.

[@kenfan5666]

This was a very hard video to watch. I'm so sorry for Katherine and Mick that you guys had to go through so much suffering. Thank you both for sharing your suffering and pain. May God continue to watch over you both and give you strength, happiness, and an abundance of joy. It's amazing that you are able to smile, let alone joke and plan ahead and think about adventures and a future. You are truly a testament to love and perseverence. Thank you.

[@Astrid_Grace]

Incredible what psychologically healthy people can overcome and cope with.

[@gem2148]

True, they amaze me how people can be so strong & resilient

[@JudahMaccabee_]

very well said. Emphasis on psychologically healthy. People who are mentally soft already have a disability.

[@MissSpaz]

I mean, even if you're mentally ill, all you can do in these situations is hold onto the safety bar, close your eyes, hold your breath and ride it out. There's nothing else you CAN do. I have several mental illnesses, including schizophrenia. I'm also chronically ill. I survived an attempted murder that left me with a spinal injury and unable to walk for three years. I thought about suicide, but outside of killing myself, the only other thing you can do is take one day at a time.

[@JudahMaccabee_]

@@MissSpaz "One day at a time" is a great way to go by. I love it.

[@criticRN]

So true! Such resilience

[@ZungaGal]

They made it so far because they both were very strong and believed in each other. If she was weaker I think it would have been more negative for them. A beautiful family unit.❤️😘

[@Familylawgroup]

This was a wonderful coverage report of an initial medical “tragedy.” I hesitate to call it a “tragedy” because he is thriving but he did lose four limbs, with very little warning. Sepsis is awful. I am glad that his wife had found a KZbinr with a similar story who served as both educator and motivator. I don’t know if Mick has also created a KZbin channel. If he hasn’t, he should consider doing so because he has a slightly different story than his new friend. Matthew. Here in America they have been pretty active in 3D printing prosthetic arms. Many local high schools find a local patient in need of such prosthetic and they make it a class project to fill that need while teaching the 3D creation skills. The 3D prosthetics are much cheaper and have a lot of functionality. They are so cost efficient, as compared to regular prosthetics, that patients will have multiple arms created for certain tasks and needs. For example, they create a prosthetic for waking a dog and integrating the leash and harness fasteners into the arm and then other arms for eating or ones for paintings and writing.

[@janedoex1398]

That's actually a really great project ! And it puts the 3D Printers to good use instead of creating an art Installation for the school's hallway. (Not that art wasn't as important) I just meant the students help someone and create something that night make someone's life a bit easier, while they still learn the needed skills and maybe even more.

[@melodyclark4347]

That is truly an amazing triumph.

[@user-vg6pj2my2n]

Sounds good. But I know how hard it is to juggle 3 pairs of glasses. Juggling lots of arms would be onerous.