A Teenager’s Fight Against Sepsis
A 13-year-old boy from Rusper, West Sussex, lost both his legs after what started as a simple leg cramp during a sports camp turned into a life-threatening condition. Austin Hunter’s story highlights the sudden and severe nature of sepsis, a condition that can develop rapidly and have devastating consequences if not treated promptly.
Austin began experiencing leg cramps in June after attending several sports camps. His parents, Warwick and Holly, initially believed the pain was due to overexertion. However, when Austin’s resting heart rate spiked to 120 beats per minute and his fingertips turned blue, they knew something was seriously wrong. They called for emergency help and rushed him to the hospital.
By 10 p.m., Austin was in critical condition. His parents were told he might not survive and were forced to say goodbye as he was placed into an induced coma and transferred to Evelina London Children’s Hospital. Warwick, a chartered surveyor, described the moment as unimaginable. He kissed his son’s forehead and prepared for the worst, thinking about how they would break the news to Austin’s sister.
Austin was diagnosed with a severe complication of a Strep A infection, which led to sepsis and multiple organ failure. His liver and kidneys shut down, and doctors feared his heart could not handle the strain. Despite this, Austin fought on and eventually stabilized. His road to recovery was long and painful, involving multiple surgeries to save his limbs.
In August, his left leg had to be amputated because it had turned black and posed a risk to the rest of his body. By December, another operation was performed on his right leg, but the chances of regaining mobility were slim. Austin, a passionate athlete, made the difficult decision to become a double amputee in order to return to sports.
Now fitted with prosthetic limbs, Austin is exploring new ways to stay active. He has tried rock climbing, wheelchair tennis, and wheelchair golf. He is also being trained by former Paralympian Rachel Morris, who won a gold medal in rowing in 2016.
Warwick said Austin’s determination and positive attitude are truly inspiring. He described his son’s resilience as incredible, noting that Austin never says he can’t do something—he always tries. This mindset has helped him navigate the challenges of his recovery.
The speed at which Austin’s condition deteriorated shocked his family. This experience has motivated them to raise awareness about sepsis and its symptoms. They hope their story will encourage others to recognize the signs and seek prompt medical attention.
Austin’s journey has been marked by emotional intelligence and selflessness. When it came time to tell his younger sister, Georgina, about the amputation, he took it upon himself to explain, showing remarkable maturity for his age.
Despite the difficulties, Austin remains focused on the future. He has been working with the Sepsis Trust UK to spread awareness and has raised funds through a GoFundMe campaign. Recently, the family donated £50,000 to Evelina Hospital, acknowledging the support they received during this challenging time.
Dr. Ron Daniels, Founder and Chief Medical Officer at the UK Sepsis Trust, praised Austin’s resilience and the importance of raising awareness about sepsis. He emphasized that the condition can affect anyone, regardless of age or health status, and highlighted the need for early recognition and treatment.
Austin’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding sepsis and acting quickly. His courage and determination continue to inspire those around him, proving that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope.