Life can change in an instant. For one CiaO Foundation grant recipient, Terry Lynch, that moment came unexpectedly in July 2022 through asymptomatic Strep A. With no warning signs or sore throat, the infection rapidly developed into severe sepsis. This led to a cascade of life-threatening complications and eventually resulted in the amputation of both legs below the knee and all the fingers on both hands. Terry’s experience highlights the devastating impact of sepsis and the importance of recognising its early signs.
Returning home marked the beginning of a new chapter, one filled with determination, resilience and the desire to regain independence. However, the practical realities of daily life quickly became clear. Simple tasks that were once taken for granted, particularly getting out and about with family and friends, suddenly presented significant physical barriers.
Although fitted with prosthetic legs, transporting a wheelchair remained a major challenge. Without fingers, lifting a heavy wheelchair into a car boot was not only difficult but unsafe. Every outing required family or friends to manage the heavy lifting, placing strain on them and limiting Terry’s independence.
Recognising the importance of mobility and autonomy, CiaO were able to step in to fund a wheelchair scissor lift that could be used with family and friends’ cars. This specialist wheelchair scissor lift now safely loads and unloads the wheelchair at the touch of a button, removing the physical burden and reducing the risk of injury.
The impact of this has been truly transformative for Terry, providing renewed independence, meaning he can now join family and friends on outings without it becoming a physical challenge for others. Being able to manage the process independently has also brought back a vital sense of agency and control. Terry is also able to now stay connected, no longer limited by the logistics of transport, he can remain present in the lives of those he loves.
As Terry shared:
“The CiaO Foundation provided more than just a piece of technology; they gave me back my freedom. Because of their support, I can get back to being myself again.”
While sepsis changed his body, it has not stopped his progress. With the right support in place, Terry continues to move forward with strength and determination. The CiaO Foundation is proud to have played a part in helping him navigate this chapter with his independence intact. Chairman of The CiaO Foundation, Andy Hogge says,
“CiaO would like to thank Scott Dodkins, a long-time CiaO supporter, for bringing Terry’s plight to our attention and encouraging Terry to apply for a grant”.
If you are interested in supporting CiaO and helping to fund life-changing equipment for individuals and families, please get in touch.
