Overcoming adversity

Alex was living a quiet life in rural Hampshire with his partner Lucy and two-year-old son. Alex ran the Kings Arms in Lockerly and embraced his role as a stay-at-home father. In early November 2013, what seemed to be a simple flu would unexpectedly change the course of his life forever.

After ten days of persistent symptoms, his condition took a worrying turn. On November 17th, Alex woke in severe pain, his skin developing a concerning purple tint as he drifted between awareness and consciousness.

Quickly taken to hospital, Alex’s condition declined rapidly. Within hours, he needed mechanical support for his vital organs, with medication helping his blood circulation. The medical team estimated just a 1% chance of survival during those first three crucial days. The cause was identified as Strep A.

While Strep A typically causes little more than a sore throat for most people, Alex’s case developed into the rare STREP A TOXIC SHOCK SYNDROME, leading to septicemia.

The months that followed brought challenging but necessary surgeries. Sadly, doctors couldn’t save his left arm above the elbow or either of his legs above the knee. Six months later, his right arm below the elbow also had to be removed. He also needed facial reconstruction as the infection had affected his face and mouth.

Alex continues to adapt because as his body changes over time he needs further, regular surgical revisions. This presents a challenging way of life but his remarkable spirit always shines through.