Jacob Butler, 14, suffered a severe infection after jumping into a lake in Colliers Moss Park, near Burtonwood, Cheshire, during a heatwave. He cut his leg on a piece of wire, allowing bacteria to enter. The infection, necrotising fasciitis, destroyed tissue, requiring surgeons to remove approximately 15cm (6 inches) of flesh and some muscle.
Immediate Response and Heroic Fisherman
Jacob was alone when injured on April 30. He called his father Ashley, 37, saying he had an "accident" that was "really bad." A nearby fisherman used a t-shirt to stem the bleeding, which Jacob's mother Rebecca said likely saved his leg. Paramedics airlifted him to Alder Hey Children's Hospital.
Recurrence of Infection
Initial surgery appeared successful, but infection returned on May 13. Rebecca noticed a smell like "rotting flesh" and took Jacob to A&E. Doctors diagnosed flesh-eating disease and warned that without prompt treatment, it could have been life-threatening. A second surgery removed all infected tissue, leaving a gaping wound exposing bone.
Recovery and Awareness Campaign
Rebecca described the ordeal as "devastating," fearing her son might die. Jacob now faces a long recovery but is improving daily. Rebecca launched an Instagram page, JacobsWaterWarning, to promote water safety. Jacob urges children not to jump into open water, stating, "I could have lost my leg or worse." The Mirror's Save Lives For Sam campaign advocates for compulsory water safety lessons in schools and better lifesaving equipment.
