An Aberdeen man has thanked medics for saving his life after bones from his amputated legs became infected sending him into a state of septic shock.
Angus Brown spent nine weeks in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary in June after his keen-eyed doctor spotted a small red mark on his behind.
But a two inch hole developed in his pelvic bone leading to a serious infection setting in.
The 44-year-old’s health problems started when he was paralysed aged just 18 and learning his trade as an architect when he fell 70 feet and broke his spine.
Around two years ago long-running problems with his heels re-emerged leaving surgeons no choice but to amputate both his legs.
He said that he had been recovering from his double amputation at the time medics found his new life threatening problem last year.
He said:“During a routine examination a year ago last August, my GP found a red mark appear on my buttock. ‘Nothing to worry about but keep a close eye on it Angus’, she said.
“Problems over the months however set in quick, this was more than a red mark and became a Grade-4 sore through to my pelvic bone that was to be an open wound being 7cm’s deep and wide.”
An emergency visit to ARI followed after friends noticed the state of his wounds.
He added: “I got an infection that turned septic, to the point consultants and nurses at ARI kept telling me I was ‘lucky to pull through’.
“The staff in ward 111 were glad to see me till they saw my wound. Doctors, consultants, junior doctors and loads of nurses came to see and learn and try heal my wound.
“After blood was taken it was found the bone was infected, I was in septic shock and very ill.
“The work and planning of my care by the nurses of ward 111 was superb. Every time I needed help or support they where there.
“All I know now a month after leaving ARI with my life, to the surprise of some NHS staff, the life is so delicate yet we can be at time be so robust.
“Without the on0 going care, support and all out duty of all the NHS staff i know i would not be here.”
An NHS spokeswoman said “We are grateful to all patients who take the time to comment about their experiences and we will share these kind words with our feedback service.”
