A man developed a severe leg infection after swimming in a canal, resulting in one leg swelling to twice the size of the other. Sam McAlpine Peyr, a plumber, swam in the Stroudwater Navigation Canal with his family and later experienced a high temperature and groin pain. Initially dismissing the symptoms, he had to leave work due to feeling unwell. The following day, he sought medical help as the infection in his left leg worsened significantly.

Doctors diagnosed the 32-year-old with an infection that entered his bloodstream through a small heel crack acquired during the swim, leading to lymphoedema, a chronic condition causing tissue swelling. A year later, his left leg remains enlarged, necessitating compression bandages and reduced activity. To cover the costs of specialized surgery, Sam’s wife, Georgia, is raising funds and warning against swimming with any open wounds to prevent similar incidents.

Georgia emphasized the urgency of raising awareness to prevent such infections, stressing the permanent damage caused to Sam’s lymphatic system. The couple aims to secure private Lymphaticovenous Anastomosis (LVA) surgery for Sam’s condition. Recounting the rapid escalation of the infection post-swim, Georgia highlighted the severity of the situation and the challenges Sam faces, including constant leg elevation due to discomfort.

Addressing the concerns raised by the incident, a spokesperson from the Stroud Valleys Canal Company expressed regret and advised against unauthorized swimming in canals for public safety. They cited potential hazards, shallow waters, and unsuitable water quality, emphasizing adherence to safety guidelines provided by the Canal and River Trust to prevent accidents. Further information on water safety regulations can be found on the CRT website.

To support Sam’s recovery journey, a GoFundMe page has been set up for donations.