‘I stood on a dog biscuit – it left me in a wheelchair’
I stood on a dog biscuit – it left me in a wheelchair
I stood on a dog biscuit – Jayme Stephen, a 39-year-old woman diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age seven, recounts how a seemingly minor injury turned into a life-altering event. What began as a small dent on her foot from stepping on a kibble escalated into a medical emergency that left her in a wheelchair and eventually necessitated the loss of her right leg.
The Unseen Threat of Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes, a condition where the body fails to produce insulin, has long been a silent adversary for Jayme. The hormone insulin is crucial for regulating glucose, the body’s primary energy source. Without it, blood sugar levels can rise dangerously, leading to complications over time. Sepsis, a severe infection that spreads rapidly, became the catalyst for Jayme’s dramatic health shift.
Several days later, Jayme Stephen discovered a dent on the sole of her foot from the kibble. Soon after, she experienced intense pain and swelling that tripled the size of her foot. This unexpected development forced her to seek urgent medical care. At Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, where she was admitted via ambulance, the doctors worked swiftly to assess the damage.
A Life-Changing Decision
Jayme’s journey through the hospital involved three major surgeries within five days. The first step was removing dead tissue to evaluate the extent of the injury. A second operation revealed alarming damage, with the sole of her foot slit open from top to bottom. The surgeons discovered that most of the nerves had died, leaving her in a critical condition.
As Jayme regained consciousness after the second surgery, she already sensed the gravity of the situation. She recalled the moment: “Before the surgeon could speak, I told him: ‘You are going to take my leg, aren’t you?’ And he said, ‘Yes… I’m sorry, Jayme, but we have to cut off your foot. It is life or death.’” The procedure was completed in under an hour, marking the end of her active lifestyle.
Before the amputation, Jayme had spent years grappling with the impact of her diabetes. She described feeling as though the disease was slowly taking her life. Now, she is determined to embrace a new chapter of adventure, even as an amputee. Her passion for outdoor activities, such as kayaking and white water rafting, remains central to her recovery.
Embracing Resilience
Jayme’s experience with diabetes had always made her aware of the risk of amputation. However, she never imagined it would become her reality. A decade prior, she had started losing sensation in both legs, but it wasn’t until the sepsis incident that the situation worsened. The mental toll of managing the disease was significant, she said. “I was in such a bad way with my anxiety, every time I approached the front door, I just wanted the world to swallow me up. I couldn’t even leave my bed.”
Though she is now adapting to life as a full-time wheelchair user, Jayme is finding strength in her new challenges. She emphasized the importance of resilience, stating: “I was one of those people who thought I was untouchable. But look at me now. Once I realized life goes on, I thought, ‘I have to at least try.’” Her determination even led her to purchase a canoe, a symbol of her desire to return to outdoor pursuits.
Overcoming Stigma and Moving Forward
Despite her progress, Jayme faces social challenges as a wheelchair user. She expressed frustration with how others treat her, particularly when strangers gawk or show pity. “I can’t deal with people feeling sorry for me. It’s hard when strangers just stop and stare. I’d rather they ask me what happened instead of making me feel uncomfortable because they’re uneducated.”
For Jayme, the incident was a wake-up call for others living with diabetes. She urged awareness: “You don’t know how your body will react to a trauma like that. Don’t leave it to chance. It was always a risk I knew, but I never thought it would happen to me.”
Jenn Hall, National Director at Diabetes Scotland, highlighted the potential dangers of neglecting foot care. “Minor foot problems can lead to ulcers, infections, and in severe cases, amputations. High blood sugar levels damage blood vessels, which can impair nerve function and reduce circulation.” She stressed the importance of vigilance, noting that over 180 amputations occur weekly in the UK due to diabetes-related complications.
Jayme’s story is a testament to both the challenges and the resilience required to navigate life with Type 1 diabetes. While she is no longer able to walk, her spirit remains unbroken. She is now focused on reclaiming her independence and inspiring others to take their health seriously. “I want to get back to being the person I used to be, someone who loves the outdoors. I’m not just surviving—I’m living.”
Her journey underscores the unpredictable nature of diabetes. What starts as a small injury can spiral into a life-changing event if not addressed promptly. For Jayme, the experience has reshaped her perspective, transforming fear into determination. She is now an advocate for early intervention and awareness, proving that even in the face of adversity, hope and resilience can pave the way for a new beginning.
As she continues her recovery, Jayme is navigating both physical and emotional obstacles. The 19-month road to healing has been difficult, but she is optimistic about the future. Whether it’s through kayaking, canoeing, or simply enjoying the freedom of movement, she is committed to embracing every opportunity. Her story is a powerful reminder that diabetes, while a lifelong condition, does not define one’s ability to thrive.