A Scottish mother is recovering after a harrowing battle with necrotizing fasciitis, a rare adn life-threatening “flesh-eating” bacterial infection. Amanda Paxton, 43, from Motherwell, North Lanarkshire, contracted the infection following a minor leg injury and was given just hours to live, according to STV News reporting on October 19, 2025. Her remarkable recovery offers a beacon of hope for others facing similar diagnoses.
Necrotizing fasciitis, while uncommon, demands swift medical intervention. The infection rapidly destroys tissue beneath the skin, and can lead to sepsis, shock, and even death if left untreated. Paxton’s case underscores the critical importance of recognizing early symptoms – such as intense pain,swelling,and skin discoloration - and seeking immediate medical attention. Her story highlights the potential for survival even in the face of this devastating illness, and the dedication of medical teams in Scotland.
Paxton initially dismissed the pain in her leg as a result of a minor knock, but her condition deteriorated rapidly. Within 48 hours,she was rushed to Wishaw General Hospital,where doctors diagnosed the aggressive infection. “They saeid if I hadn’t gone in when I did, I wouldn’t have lasted the night,” Paxton told STV News.
Doctors performed multiple surgeries to remove the infected tissue, and Paxton spent weeks in intensive care. She is now undergoing physiotherapy and rehabilitation to regain her mobility. “I’m just so grateful to be alive,” Paxton said. “It’s been a long road, but I’m persistent to get back to normal.”
The Scottish mother’s ordeal serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of bacterial infections and the importance of prompt medical care. while the exact cause of Paxton’s infection remains under inquiry, health officials emphasize the need for thorough wound care and vigilance for any signs of infection.
