A mother of a newborn has spoken out about her battle with a flesh-eating disease that nearly killed her, hoping to raise awareness of the condition. Charleigh Chatterton, 27, from Harwich, Essex, gave birth to her daughter Alessia on 22 April without complications. However, six days later, she developed a rash on her stomach and was rushed back to hospital.
Doctors diagnosed her with necrotising fasciitis, a rare but serious bacterial infection that destroys tissue under the skin. They warned her family she might not survive. 'The doctors said my chances of survival were slim. I think I got diagnosed just in time,' she said. The rash was described as 'as hot to touch as a boiled kettle', and she experienced severe flu-like symptoms.
Her fiancé Liam Boyne called midwives at Colchester Hospital, who advised her to come in. Despite multiple tests coming back clear, her condition rapidly deteriorated. A scan revealed pockets of gas under her tissue, leading to the diagnosis. She underwent immediate surgery to remove dead tissue and was sedated for three days. She woke up with two large wounds on her stomach, which were left open for six days before a vacuum pump could be fitted.
Necrotising fasciitis affects around 500 people each year in the UK. Early symptoms include flu-like signs, rash, vomiting, and swelling, which can quickly lead to sepsis and organ failure. Miss Chatterton had no obvious entry point for the bacteria, such as cuts or insect bites. She left hospital after two weeks and is now recovering at home with her baby, though she faces psychological challenges and nerve damage.
Martin Mansfield, deputy chief medical officer at East Suffolk and North Essex Foundation Trust, praised the staff for their quick action. 'We're so glad to have been able to help Charleigh and very pleased to know that she is doing so well,' he said. Miss Chatterton urged others to be aware of the disease, saying early diagnosis can be life-saving.
