Family Raise £38k After Runner Mum Loses Legs To Illness

A MOTHER who was training for a half marathon now faces a lifetime of disability after falling so ill on Christmas Eve surgeons had to amputate her legs and fingers.

Tracy Ralph, 34, was taken to hospital after feeling short of breath. But as her condition worsened she was placed in an induced coma and diagnosed with pneumonia.

She was transferred from Southend Hospital in Essex to St Thomas’ Hospital in London but then suffered complete organ failure, meningitis, septicaemia, blood clots  and bleeding on the brain.

To save her life, both her legs were amputated  below the knee and her fingers were also removed.

She came out of her coma on New Year’s Eve and doctors hope to transfer her back to Southend next week. But she is still at risk from fatal blood clots.

Tracy’s husband Brad, 37, has been at her side throughout the ordeal but kept their children Miller, four, and 19-month-old Hudson away.

When she can at last return to her home in Hawkwell , Essex, she will need expensive  rehabilitation. Her family this week launched an appeal for help that has already raised more than £38,000. Tracy’s sister-in-law Amanda Ralph said: “It’s really humbling, we were up to nearly £18,000 in less than 24 hours.

“We have had people who didn’t even know Tracy contributing and those saying they can’t afford much but giving what they can.

“Every penny will help Tracy and we are so grateful to everyone who has donated. We are raising the money both for her rehab and ultimately for the best prosthetic feet we can buy.”

Tracy who works for Clarins at Debenhams in Southend, had been training to run the Southend Half Marathon in June with the Essex Ladies Running Club.

A fellow member has now taken her spot and will donate everything she raises to Tracy’s cause.

“Applause for the health service who have fought to save her life and her family and community for showing how much they care. Focus on Disability wishes her well.”