A Dog’s Lick, A Life Altered: Woman Survives Quadruple Amputation After Sepsis Diagnosis
Manjit Sangha, a 56-year-ancient woman from Penn, near Wolverhampton in the United Kingdom, is recovering at home after a harrowing seven-month hospital stay. Her journey, marked by multiple cardiac arrests and ultimately a quadruple amputation, began with what doctors believe was a seemingly innocuous event: a lick from her dog on a minor cut or scratch. Sangha’s case serves as a stark reminder of the swift and devastating impact sepsis can have, and the importance of recognizing its early symptoms. The UK Sepsis Trust estimates that approximately 50,000 sepsis-related deaths occur in the UK each year, highlighting the critical need for increased awareness and rapid intervention.
Sangha’s life changed dramatically in July 2025, as reported by multiple news outlets including the BBC and Times Now. After returning home from work, she began to sense unwell. Within 24 hours, she was found unconscious by her husband, Kam Sangha, with alarming symptoms – cold extremities and blue lips – prompting an immediate call to emergency services. She was rushed to New Cross Hospital and placed in a medically induced coma, where she endured six cardiac arrests. Doctors determined she was suffering from sepsis, a life-threatening condition triggered by the body’s overwhelming response to an infection.
Understanding Sepsis: A Rapidly Escalating Threat
Sepsis isn’t simply an infection; it’s a dysregulated immune response. When the body fights off an infection, the immune system releases chemicals into the bloodstream. In sepsis, this response goes into overdrive, causing widespread inflammation that can damage tissues and organs. If left untreated, sepsis can lead to septic shock, a dangerous drop in blood pressure that can result in organ failure and death. The National Health Service (NHS) describes sepsis as a life-threatening condition that can be difficult to identify, emphasizing the need for vigilance.
In Sangha’s case, the initial infection is believed to have stemmed from bacteria entering a minor wound, potentially transmitted through her dog’s saliva. While seemingly minor, this entry point allowed bacteria to proliferate, triggering the cascade of events that led to sepsis. Doctors also noted that Sangha developed disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), a rare and dangerous condition characterized by abnormal blood clotting throughout the body, further complicating her treatment. The National Institutes of Health explains that DIC can cause significant organ damage and is often associated with severe infections like sepsis.
The Difficult Road to Recovery and the Need for Amputation
As Sangha’s condition deteriorated, medical professionals were faced with increasingly difficult decisions. The severity of the sepsis and the development of DIC led to a critical need for intervention to save her life. Surgeons determined that the amputation of both legs below the knee and both hands was necessary to halt the progression of the infection and prevent further organ damage. She also underwent a splenectomy due to the development of pneumonia and gallstones, adding to the complexity of her recovery. According to reports, hospital staff initially warned the family that Sangha had only days to live and that limb loss was a strong possibility.
After 32 weeks of treatment, including a period in intensive care at Moseley Hall Hospital in Birmingham, Sangha was finally discharged on February 20, 2026, receiving a hero’s welcome from her family. Her husband, Kam Sangha, who has taken a leave of absence from work to care for his wife, described the experience as utterly devastating, recalling the rapid decline in her health. “It’s completely bewildering. You wonder how this is possible in less than 24 hours,” he stated, as reported by the BBC.
Raising Awareness and Seeking Advanced Prosthetics
Despite the immense challenges she faces, Manjit Sangha is determined to rebuild her life and raise awareness about the dangers of sepsis. She emphasizes that sepsis can strike anyone, regardless of age or health status, and that early recognition of symptoms is crucial. “Losing your limbs and your hands in a short period of time is a highly huge thing. It’s very serious and not to be taken lightly,” she said, according to the BBC. Common symptoms of sepsis in adults include slurred speech, extreme shivering or muscle pain, severe breathlessness, and skin that appears mottled or discolored.
Sangha is now focused on regaining her independence and hopes to return to work. To aid in her rehabilitation, she is seeking advanced prosthetic limbs, including robotic hands, which can significantly improve her quality of life. The cost of these prosthetics is substantial, and the couple has launched an online fundraising campaign to help cover the expenses. As of February 2026, they have raised over £22,000 (approximately €25,000) through donations, demonstrating the outpouring of support from the community. The fundraising page can be found online, allowing individuals to contribute to Sangha’s recovery.
What You Need to Recognize About Sepsis: Prevention and Early Intervention
Sepsis is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. The UK Sepsis Trust provides comprehensive information about the condition, including its symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options. Early intervention is critical; for every hour that sepsis goes untreated, the risk of death increases significantly. Knowing the signs and seeking prompt medical care can dramatically improve outcomes.
While anyone can develop sepsis, certain individuals are at higher risk, including infants and young children, the elderly, people with chronic illnesses, and those with weakened immune systems. Preventing infections through fine hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing and proper wound care, can help reduce the risk of sepsis. Vaccinations can also protect against certain infections that can lead to sepsis.
Manjit Sangha’s story is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of raising awareness about life-threatening conditions like sepsis. Her experience underscores the need for continued research, improved diagnostic tools, and increased public education to combat this devastating illness. The ongoing support of her family, community, and medical team will be instrumental in her continued recovery and her efforts to advocate for sepsis awareness.
As Manjit Sangha continues her rehabilitation, the focus remains on her long-term recovery and adaptation to life with prosthetic limbs. Further updates on her progress and fundraising efforts can be expected in the coming months. The medical community continues to emphasize the importance of recognizing sepsis symptoms and seeking immediate medical attention, potentially saving countless lives.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of sepsis, seek immediate medical attention. Call emergency services or travel to the nearest hospital.
Share this article to help raise awareness about sepsis and its potentially devastating consequences. Your comments and support are greatly appreciated.
Related reading