Parents of sepsis amputee 'overwhelmed' by support

The mother of a Jersey medical student who had all her limbs amputated after falling ill, says the family has been "overwhelmed" by online fundraising efforts.

Lily McGarry, 23, suffered from septic shock after experiencing flu-like symptoms in January this year, and remains in intensive care in South Wales.

Fundraising for her has since reached over £305,000, and events have been held locally to show support.

Jo Gorrod said: "As a family we've been absolutely overwhelmed, and Lily has too".

Speaking to BBC Radio Jersey, Jo Gorrod said the family has been keeping Lily updated on fundraising efforts.

She said: "She's there in intensive care in Swansea, and we tell her what's happening and how this has just gained so much momentum so very quickly. It just shows you the level of community support Jersey has, and she's a very proud islander.

"Its just staggering really, the love and support people have shown, and she's going to need a lot of that over the coming years."

On Wednesday, people came together in Liberation Square to show their support for Lily and her family, and to raise awareness of limb loss.

"Quite a few people shared photos with us of the event, and it was just great to see so many people there", Ms Gorrod said.

Reacting to the sum raised so far, she added: "It's gained traction worldwide really.

"We have family in Australia and the US...as well as elsewhere, and those combined networks have been important."

Ms McGarry's family has been based in South Wales ever since she fell ill.

"Its a long time to be away from home, but there isn't anywhere else you could be at this time", her mother said.

Ms Gorrod said the family had been "encouraged" by plans to move her out of intensive care.

She said: "She's nearly ready for that...but before she's even able to commence proper rehab, there's a phase of getting stronger. Even recovering from ITU takes time.

"It's very much a day-to-day process".

"She can still light up the room with her smile, even from a hospital bed. Her personality is still very much a positive and she's always wanting to see how she can help others.

"It is difficult, it is painful and there are difficult times, but we are there to make sure she gets through them".

Ms McGarry's father, Stuart McGarry has also been by his daughter's side since January.

He said they had shed a tear together over the help she had received from the public.

"I want to express my heartfelt thanks for all the support Lily has been given.

"Lily had her tracheotomy removed yesterday, and was able to speak in her own voice for the first time, having previously communicated through a valve.

"So for the first time in ninety-nine days, she used her own voice, and she said 'I feel very loved'".