“Since the accident happened, my life has been turned completely upside down in so many ways and has made day-to-day living very hard.”
Chris was a former personal trainer who built his life around movement, health, and time with the people he loved. Exploring Scotland, keeping fit, and enjoying life with his daughter and their chihuahuas were central to who he was. Being active wasn’t just a hobby for Chris — it was part of his identity.
But everything changed the day he went in for a routine procedure. While under sedation, Chris was left unattended. He fell from the operating table, waking to devastating injuries from heat to toe, that no patient should ever endure. He faced extensive injuries: severe damage to both shoulders, foot injuries requiring surgery, and considerable trauma to his teeth. What should have been a straightforward procedure turned into a lifelong struggle — one that was entirely preventable.
The impact has touched every part of his life. Once independent and physically strong, Chris now lives with constant pain, reduced mobility, and a daily battle to carry out basic tasks. Even eating has become a challenge.
"Due to the dental damage, I’m unable to eat a lot of food, which has a knock-on effect of me trying to keep taking pain relief when I can’t eat normally, to try and help my teeth. Being on benefits, I’m unable to afford the large dental bill."
Chris' experience reflects a clear system failure. In any healthcare setting, basic safety — supervision, monitoring, and safeguarding patients under sedation — is fundamental. When these break down, the consequences can be life-changing. His story is a stark reminder of why accountability, safe staffing levels, and robust safety protocols matter so deeply.
No one should suffer harm because simple, essential checks were not followed.
At AvMA, we stand with people like Chris every day — helping them find answers, offering practical guidance, and ensuring they are not left to navigate the aftermath alone. And we work to make sure lessons from stories like his lead to safer care for everyone.
This Christmas, your support can help ensure no one faces the emotional, physical or financial impact of avoidable medical harm without someone in their corner. With a monthly gift, you can help AvMA provide expert advice and compassionate support to those who need it most.
