Conservative MP Craig Mackinlay is making an inspiring return to parliament just eight months after a harrowing health battle which saw him fighting for his life. The South Thanet MP experienced a life-threatening episode of sepsis, a severe reaction to infection, which led to the amputation of both his hands and feet. Mackinlay, who will make his comeback on Wednesday, last year found himself in a induced coma with multiple organ failures after being diagnosed with sepsis in September 2023.
During his ordeal, Mackinlay candidly shared the shock of waking up from the coma only to find his limbs had turned completely black, describing them as “like plastic” and “desiccating.” He revealed that his hands and feet were amputated, but surgeons managed to save parts of his limbs, leaving him with prosthetic hands and legs. Despite the immense physical and emotional challenges, he has announced his aspiration to be recognized as the first “bionic MP”.
Sepsis is a highly dangerous condition that occurs when the body’s immune response to an infection causes it to damage its own tissues and organs. Reflecting on his experience, Mackinlay candidly acknowledged the grim reality of his circumstances, remarking, “The grim reaper has let me survive, but he’s taken his payment in four of my limbs.”
The perseverance and resilience shown by Craig Mackinlay are truly inspiring. His return to public life after such a traumatic and life-altering ordeal is a testament to his inner strength and determination, and his story is a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s capacity to overcome immense adversity.
As Craig Mackinlay prepares to step back into his role as a Conservative MP, his courageous battle against sepsis serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing dangers posed by infections and the critical importance of early detection and treatment. It also brings attention to the pressing need for further awareness and research into sepsis, a condition which claims thousands of lives each year.
