A father-of-nine has revealed how he was forced to undergo a major amputation following a devastating misdiagnosis at an NHS hospital. Ron Bigwood, from Chelmsford, Essex, initially consulted his GP in September 2014 about severe pain in his right calf and was referred to NHS Broomfield Hospital.
However, the father-of-nine said his consultations with doctors resulted in a serious misdiagnosis and months of treatment that were destined to fail, which eventually led to the loss of his right leg below the knee. He has now secured a six-figure settlement after Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust acknowledged 95% liability for the incident.
Misdiagnosis and Unnecessary Surgery
Ron, now aged 69, was diagnosed in November 2014 with a serious circulation condition, despite experiencing no rest pain or tissue loss. A CT scan subsequently showed a blood clot, which his solicitors from Irwin Mitchell stated should have been managed with medication instead of surgery. In February 2015, he had an angioplasty – a procedure to widen narrowed arteries – which they maintained was unnecessary and unsuitable for treating a clot.
His condition deteriorated quickly, and by April he was experiencing severe pain with tissue damage to his foot. A scan on 27 April confirmed serious blockages. Two days later, Ron had a 10-hour vascular operation, but it was unsuccessful, and on 1 June that year his right leg was amputated below the knee.
Trust Admits Failings
The trust subsequently acknowledged a catalogue of failings in Ron's treatment, including the incorrect diagnosis of his vascular condition, the unsuitable decision to carry out an angioplasty, inadequate consent procedures, and negligent surgical management which collectively resulted in the preventable amputation of his right leg.
Previously an active and independent man, Ron stated that the years following have transformed basic activities, such as climbing stairs and carrying shopping, into daily challenges that occasionally require assistance. He now uses a prosthetic leg but contends with a variety of painful conditions connected to his amputation.
Living with Pain and Loss of Independence
Ron said: I live with burning stump pain, phantom limb pain and swelling that worsens when I walk. People think a prosthetic leg fixes everything, but it can be painful and difficult to manage. What's more, my house isn't suited to my needs and even getting to the bathroom at night can feel unsafe.
He added: I've had to rely a lot on my kids for transport, shopping, carrying items, help around the house and support with day-to-day tasks. I'm grateful for the support and don't know what I'd do without my family but I miss my independence.
Determined to do everything possible for his children and grandchildren, Ron has achieved remarkable progress in his rehabilitation, advancing from managing short distances indoors to routinely walking approximately 1,200 yards to his local supermarket using a stick or trolley. He is also considering a mobility scooter to assist with tiredness during extended trips.
Rebuilding Life and Seeking Independence
Ron explained his ultimate aim is to regain as much independence as he can and relocate to accommodation that completely suits his requirements. He said: I have good days and bad days but, despite the challenges, I'm determined to rebuild my life. It may seem odd but one positive to come out of everything is that it's brought the family closer together. My children and grandchildren are my greatest motivation to keep going.
He added: I've applied for my provisional driving licence because I want to be more independent and able to visit them more often without relying on others. I've also held on to my passion for pigeon racing – I still travel abroad occasionally to help grade racing pigeons. It isn't easy with a prosthetic leg, but it gives me a sense of normality and keeps me connected to a community I care about. The support I'm receiving now means I can finally focus on improving my mobility, health and confidence.
Legal Settlement and Awareness Month
Irwin Mitchell confirmed that substantial six-figure interim payments will assist in funding essential rehabilitation, support and prosthetic treatment, alongside modifications to make his property more suitable. With April marking Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, Ron expressed his hope that sharing his experience would shine a light on the consequences of misdiagnosed conditions and the vital need to learn from errors to safeguard future patients.
Louise Forsyth, the expert medical negligence lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing Ron, said: Ron's injury has had a devastating and permanent impact on his life and will affect him and his family forever. Coming to terms with the physical and emotional consequences over the past decade has understandably been incredibly difficult for him. What has made this even harder is knowing that, had he received the correct diagnosis and not been placed on a treatment pathway destined to fail, his amputation could have been avoided.
She added: While nothing can undo what Ron has been through, we're pleased to have secured payments that mean he can now access the specialist rehabilitation, prosthetic support and home adaptations he needs. These will be vital in helping him regain as much independence as possible. Ron's story is a stark reminder of the life-changing consequences patients can face when issues arise in vascular care, and of the importance of learning from mistakes to improve patient safety.
