Michael Edwards 58 years old, London

Michael, a former lorry driver, lost his leg above the knee due to severe circulatory complications. His health issues began when his medications were stopped without performing a full cardiovascular assessment.

Living with diabetes for 36 years, Michael's life changed dramatically in 2019 after a crash caused by an undiagnosed heart condition, leading to the implantation of a loop recorder and pacemaker. Despite undergoing ten procedures on his left leg, he eventually needed a below-the-knee amputation, followed by an above-the-knee amputation due to septicaemia. Michael subsequently had a limbflow operation on his right leg, which saved it, although he lost two toes.

Why did he join the AmpuNATION project?

Through sharing his story, Michael hopes to raise awareness about the importance of consistent GP care and advocates for preventive healthcare measures. He believes that greater medical support and awareness could help others avoid similar outcomes.

If I’d had more consistent GP care, I might not have lost my leg. I hope this raises awareness of the importance of early diagnosis to help patients avoid preventable complications in the future.