When James Mackey, a father of three from Bracknell, England, went to his general practitioner thinking he had a bad case of the flu, little did he know that he was about to face a life-altering diagnosis. Instead of walking out with a prescription, Mackey was rushed to the hospital, where he received some devastating news. Today, we’ll share the remarkable story of James Mackey, a man in his mid-30s, who showed incredible resilience in the face of adversity.
In mid-October 2016, Mackey visited his doctor, seeking relief from severe flu-like symptoms. However, his condition turned out to be far more serious than the flu. Following several scans and tests, Mackey was diagnosed with a strain of sepsis, a potentially fatal condition in which the body responds improperly to an infection. The organs begin to work poorly, and in severe cases, septic shock can occur, causing damage to vital organs. Unfortunately, the severity of Mackey’s illness led to a double lower leg amputation.
While facing this major setback, Mackey found support from his loved ones and the community. A GoFundMe campaign was launched to assist with his medical expenses and the purchase of prosthetic equipment. Mackey’s wife, Ashley, expressed the family’s goal: to help him regain his independence, get back on his bike, and play football with their children again. The campaign exceeded its target, showcasing the overwhelming support they received from friends, family, and even strangers.
Sepsis is a global threat that can affect anyone. In 2017 alone, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported 48.9 million cases of sepsis worldwide, with nearly 11 million resulting in death. Shockingly, almost half of all sepsis cases occur in children under the age of 5, highlighting the urgency of early diagnosis and treatment. In Mackey’s case, the infection took hold after a small cut on his hand went unnoticed for four days.
Despite the challenges he faced, Mackey’s determination and positive attitude shone through. After receiving his prosthetic legs, he returned to work as a landscaper in 2017, showcasing his resilience and determination to move forward. In 2018, he participated in a para triathlon, raising funds for Limbcare, an organization supporting individuals with new limbs. Mackey’s story is a testament to the power of the human spirit and the ability to overcome even the most daunting obstacles.
In 2019, Mackey’s journey took another incredible turn when he tied the knot with Ashley. They made a memorable entrance at their wedding, with Mackey arriving in a Ferrari, a symbol of their triumph over adversity. His recovery and progress continue to inspire those around him.
James Mackey’s story serves as a reminder of the dangers of sepsis and the importance of early detection and treatment. By sharing his story, we hope to raise awareness and prevent others from experiencing the devastating impact of this condition.
We are thrilled to see James Mackey embracing life with his new legs and wish him all the best in his future endeavors. Let us all celebrate his resilience and spread the word about the dangers of sepsis, so that more lives can be saved.
