Inspirational UK MP Overcomes Adversity to Return to Parliament
Craig Mackinlay, a British Member of Parliament, receives a heartwarming welcome in Parliament after bravely making a comeback following a life-changing quadruple amputation due to sepsis. His resilience and determination shine as he re-enters the House of Commons amidst applause and support.
British lawmaker Craig Mackinlay received a warm welcome in Parliament as he made his return to the House of Commons. He had recently undergone a quadruple amputation due to a severe sepsis infection. Mackinlay, a member of parliament for the Conservative party, represents South Thanet in southeast England. He fell ill on September 28, 2023.
He told the BBC that he started to feel ill and turned “a very strange blue” within about 30 minutes.
Mackinlay in hospital following his operation
Mackinlay in hospital following his operation
Katalin Mackinlay
He described the symptoms of septic shock in an interview released on Wednesday, saying, "My whole body, from top to bottom, ears, everything, turned blue."
Sepsis is the body's severe reaction to an infection, which can be triggered by any type of infection, even a minor one. It occurs when germs enter the body and multiply, leading to illness and damage to organs and tissues. This life-threatening condition requires immediate medical attention to prevent organ damage and potential death.
In some situations, sepsis or the infections that cause it may not be recognized early enough. This is because they can present with a variety of symptoms, including confusion, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, fever, chills, severe pain, and sweaty skin, as stated by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Mackinlay, pictured in 2019 before his illness
Mackinlay, pictured in 2019 before his illness
Victoria Jones/PA
Mackinlay was placed in a medically induced coma due to multiple organ failures. He shared with UK media outlet GB News that there is a three-week gap in his memory during this time.
Upon regaining consciousness, Mackinlay discovered that his hands and feet had turned black.
“I could see these things were probably lost,” he said.
Mackinlay speaks in Parliament in January 2023.
Mackinlay speaks in Parliament in January 2023.
Jessica Taylor/UK Parliament/Reuters
On November 30, Mackinlay recorded a video from his hospital bed in which he showed the damage to his limbs.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - AUGUST 06: A view of the sign of Center for Disease Control headquarters is seen in Atlanta, Georgia, United States on August 06, 2022. (Photo by Nathan Posner/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - On August 6, 2022, a photo was taken of the sign at the headquarters of the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta, Georgia, United States. The image was captured by Nathan Posner from Anadolu Agency/Getty Images.
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"My hands and feet are completely dead," he explained, saying they look "twisted, dry, and shriveled." He shared that he was scheduled for a quadruple amputation the following day.
"I honestly shouldn't have made it this far," Mackinlay reflected on his journey.
He adds, "The grim reaper spared me, but I lost four limbs as payment."
Kati Mackinlay, Mackinlay's wife, shared with GB News that despite doctors giving him a 5% chance of survival, she held onto hope.
“I never said goodbye, I never thought that’s it for Craig,” she said.
“I always knew that Craig would pull through and he did.”
The operation lasted around 4-5 hours, during which his arms were amputated from the elbow and his legs from the knee, as Mackinlay shared with GB News. Following the surgery, he underwent a rehabilitation process to adjust to life with prosthetic arms and legs.
Additionally, Mackinlay mentioned that he has some scarring on his face and ears as a result of insufficient blood supply during the ordeal.
Nonetheless, Mackinlay is eager to get back to work.
“Get back into the saddle, get back into Parliament, get back doing the things I enjoy,” he told GB News.
Editor's P/S:
First paragraph:
Craig Mackinlay's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Despite facing a life-threatening illness that resulted in the amputation of all four of his limbs, he has emerged from this ordeal with unwavering determination. His return to Parliament is a symbol of hope and inspiration for others who may be facing similar challenges. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always light to be found.
Second paragraph:
The article also highlights the importance of early detection and treatment of sepsis. Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that can be triggered by any type of infection. It is crucial to recognize the symptoms of sepsis and seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the chances of survival and prevent the development of complications such as organ damage or amputation.
