Hi Robbie. I'd like to start by thanking you for sharing your story.
Could you tell us a bit about the injuries you sustained?
Unfortunately I sustained severe injuries to my leg after a road traffic accident. I had an open fracture to my right leg, the femur. I had de-gloving of the upper leg. It was a real mess!
The primary injuries to my right leg required a variety of reconsctructive plastic surgery procedures: skin grafts, flaps and liposuction. Because my injuries were so severe, the goal was to recover from the traumatic physical and mental effects in stages. It was important to allow the body time to recover and reassess any areas of soft tissue that could be improved over time.
The skin and tissue on my leg was reconstructed by taking healthy skin from other parts of my body and transplanting them onto the injured areas. Donor sites for the healthy skin were chosen strategically, with my left flank and left leg being key. The goal was to return to full, or near full mobility - lessening the inconvenience to my life and reducing the visual impact of the injuries where possible.
How did you come to meet Mr Fitzgerald O’Connor and how did you find him as a doctor and surgeon?
I met Mr Fitzgerald O'Connor after being admitted to St. Thomas' Hospital.
His voice was certainly my first memory. So calm and reassuring. Quite possibly one of the most caring and diligent medical professionals I've encountered on my 6+ year recovery journey. He would explain complex terms in a clear and understandable way, follow-up and provide aftercare advice. He really advocates for the patient and, above all, is kind and empathetic. Genuinely, I looked forward to every surgery and consultation. Our last surgery in 2024 felt like a farewell - but I have maintained some contact with updates on my progress to ensure he knows how grateful I am and how life-changing the process has been.
Tell us a bit about your recovery journey since your initial surgery?
One element of the recovery process I didn't expect, was how dependent you become on matters like wound dressing. When you're discharged from hospital you worry about stitches coming loose, or whether they are sterile etc. All of that aftercare is provided and the education from the recovery team gives you the power to understand what is a normal part of the healing process.
Scarring is of no concern - my scars are barely visible unless you know what you're looking at. Advice on compression garments was key, as was the recommendation to seek specific massage consultants for my needs.
Looking back, the obstacles Mr Fitzgerald O'Connor and the team would go on to help me combat are quite vast. Regaining near full mobility, to the extent I can workout 4-5 times a week at an intensity of around 45-60 minutes, wear shorts without anxiety, do cartwheels, engage in more active sport without discomfort, is a credit to the recovery process. I first left hospital in a wheelchair with walking aids and today I can run, cycle, drive and swim without pain.
The mental health aspect has been key too. You do have to factor in what the surgery does for your confidence over the course of your recovery. I haven't had to use medication or pain relief for years.
What are your hopes for the future in terms of your ongoing recovery?
I would love to remain active and maintain the cadence of strength and muscle building. The hardest part of the journey is certainly over. Now it's about preservation of my mobility while I can benefit from it. Living in the present and being excited for the future.
