Mia’s story – a warning for parents
Mia’s life changed in 2017. After developing sickness and flu-like symptoms she was initially sent home from hospital to rest. As her symptoms worsened, her parents rushed Mia back to hospital where it was discovered she was suffering from Sepsis, her body’s immune response to Influenza A, Influenza B, Respiratory Syncytial Virus and an invasive Streptococcal A bacterial infection. During treatment, her heart stopped and everyone feared the worst.
Thankfully, Mia pulled through but extensive damage had been done to her hands and feet. A bone scan showed that there was no blood circulating past Mia’s mid-forearm and mid-calf. In November 2017, Mia had her arms amputated below the elbow and, on in January 2018, Mia had her legs amputated below the knee.
The family have been determined to help prevent other parents going through the same trauma. They have featured on television and in print to tell their story and make people more aware of sepsis. In particular:
- Sepsis happens very, very fast!!!
- Symptoms look like gastro or flu.
- Go to hospital if you are worried and ask “Could It Be Sepsis?” Return to hospital if your gut tells you this isn’t right.
You can read more about the dangers of sepsis and read the full story of Mia’s illness and recovery at https://movementformia.org/ or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MovementForMia