A British woman has endured a life-altering medical ordeal, losing all four limbs after doctors suspect a simple lick from her pet dog triggered a catastrophic infection. Manjit Sangha, 56, has returned to her UK home following a gruelling 32-week hospital stay that saw her battle sepsis, survive six cardiac arrests, and develop pneumonia, ultimately resulting in the amputation of both her hands and legs below the knees.
Rapid Onset of a Devastating Condition
Manjit began feeling unwell after returning from work on Sunday, July 14, last year. By the following morning, she had lost consciousness, was struggling to breathe, and displayed alarming signs including purple lips and freezing hands and feet. Her husband, Kam Sangha, 60, expressed his disbelief at the rapid progression, stating, "You're thinking 'how can this happen in less than 24 hours?' One minute on a Saturday she's playing with the dog, Sunday she's gone to work, Monday night she's in a coma."
A Harrowing Fight for Survival
Whilst in intensive care at New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton, the former pharmacy worker's heart stopped on six separate occasions. Doctors were forced to remove her limbs as sepsis ravaged her body. Sepsis can prove deadly when the body's immune response starts attacking its own tissues and organs rather than fighting off disease and infection. Beyond the loss of her limbs, Manjit also underwent spleen removal, fought off pneumonia, and developed gallstones, which may require additional surgery and a prolonged hospital admission.
Suspecting a Canine Connection
Medical professionals suspect the sepsis may have stemmed from her dog licking a small wound such as a cut or graze. This highlights the potential, though rare, dangers of bacterial transmission from pets to humans through seemingly innocuous contact. Looking back on her harrowing experience, Manjit revealed she "didn't know what was happening," adding, "The first month I do not remember anything."
Strength and Support During Recovery
Kam, a distribution operative at Screwfix who has been off work for seven months to remain by his wife's side, spoke of his tremendous admiration for her strength. "Every day was like 'she's going to go today' but she proved us wrong every single day with what she's been through. She's so strong," he said. Alongside her pharmacy role, Manjit also clocked weekend hours with her husband at Screwfix, often working through an entire seven-day week.
Campaigning for Advanced Prosthetics
Now back home safely, the couple are campaigning to raise money for state-of-the-art prosthetics, including expensive robotic hands. Through GoFundMe and fundraising initiatives at Screwfix, where both worked, they've already amassed more than $27,000. This effort underscores the significant financial burden associated with acquiring advanced medical devices and adapting to life after such a profound physical change.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the severe consequences of sepsis and the importance of prompt medical attention for any signs of infection, regardless of how minor the initial cause might seem. Manjit's journey continues as she faces a challenging rehabilitation process and the ongoing need for medical care and support.
