Man Who Narrowly Avoided Amputation After A Wound Became Infected
Melbourne resident John Cocomello nearly lost his leg when a scratch became infected. People with diabetes, such as Mr Cocomello, are also at high risk of developing chronic wounds. This is because diabetes can cause poor circulation and nerve damage particularly in the feet.
“Don’t do what I did – I learnt the hard way,” warns Mr Cocomello.
When Mr Cocomello spotted a small scratch on his foot, around two years ago, he just assumed it would heal on its own. “It was only the size of a shirt button,” he recalled. But within only a matter of days the scratch became infected and turned gangrenous. Mr Cocomello ended up in hospital, with doctors struggling to treat the rapidly spreading infection in his foot. They eventually gave him a chilling ultimatum: “They gave me two choices – it’s either life or limb,” said Mr Cocomello.
Thankfully, they managed to save Mr Cocomello’s leg. He spent over five weeks in hospital, had to wear a vacuum dressing for months, and needed a skin graft. After his own experience, Mr Cocomello is calling for Australians to recognise the risks and learn the ‘Warning Signs of Wounds’ during Wound Awareness Week – and don’t delay treatment. “If you’ve got diabetes, and you get a scratch go and get it checked out – we neglect these things, but we can’t risk it,” he said.
“Don’t do what I did and think it’s going to heal. It could have cost me my leg and my life.” People with Type 2 Diabetes should ask their doctor, podiatrist or nurse for a foot assessment.