71-year-old John, a healthy seasoned sailor and adventurer, spent his winters navigating the serene waters of West Palm Beach, Florida, aboard his beloved sailboat. In May 2024, he set sail with his son, eager to enjoy a summer in Rhode Island. However, their journey took an unexpected turn when John noticed swelling in his legs. Assuming it was just a circulation issue exacerbated by the humidity; he continued his trip. But as the pain worsened, he sought care at an urgent care center in St. Augustine, where he was prescribed antibiotics. Encouraged by the initial relief, John and his son decided to press on.

Three days into their journey across the Atlantic, John’s condition deteriorated significantly. Facing worsening pain and limited options at sea, John and his son made the bold decision to steer toward Carteret County, North Carolina, for help. 

Reflecting on the moment, John said, “It’s like an angel was sitting on my shoulder guiding us.”

Upon arriving at Carteret Health Care on May 10, John was admitted to the Emergency Department, where a team of specialists quickly got to work. After a thorough assessment and consultation with three surgeons, including a virtual consultation with a surgeon near John’s home, the consensus was clear: John would likely need an above-the-knee amputation to save his life.

But then, a Carteret Health Care Hospitalist reached out to Dr. Charles Rocci of the Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Center. Dr. Rocci, in collaboration with Infectious Disease specialist Dr. Vicki Morris, reevaluated John’s condition. After additional tests and imaging, the team determined that he was a candidate for advanced wound healing treatments.

Dr. Rocci shared, “When John asked me if I could save his leg, I was very honest. I told him this would be a team effort with no guarantees.  He would spend the next 3 months in Carteret County undergoing treatment 3-4 hours a day.”

“What did I have to lose?” John recalled thinking. “Nothing—and I might be able to keep my leg.”

With hope renewed, John was discharged on May 15 and began treatment at the Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Center the very next day. His family rented a hotel and found a marina to care for their boat, while John committed himself to daily treatments. After just two hyperbaric dives, the care team noticed remarkable improvement. What began as a small scratch, possibly from a barnacle on his dingy, had spiraled into a three-month journey of intensive wound care, but John’s persistence and the expert care he received made all the difference.

Throughout his treatment, John underwent wound VAC therapy, hyperbaric oxygen dives, and specialized care for his leg and foot. Each session brought him closer to healing and preserved his independence. Despite the challenges, John never wavered in his commitment, working closely with Carteret’s wound care team. 

After over three months of wound healing treatments, John’s perseverance and patient compliance paid off—he was able to return home to Oregon with his family, leg intact, and spirit soaring. Thanks to the exceptional care from Carteret Health Care’s Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Center and Home Health services, John’s future now holds the promise of more adventures and, most importantly, smooth sailing.

“This case truly highlights the power of determination, teamwork and trust. It was an incredible effort by all of our wound care team, John and his family.” Dr. Rocci stated. “He could have chosen to go to a larger medical center or even back to Oregon, but he put his faith in us.” 

This extraordinary story is a testament to Carteret Health Care’s mission of promoting wellness and serving the community through exceptional quality and compassionate care. The team’s commitment to Carteret’s vision of being the leader in health and wellness was evident in every step of John’s journey, from quick decision-making to advanced treatment options. Guided by core values like attentiveness, safety, and trust, Carteret Health Care provided John not only with medical expertise but with hope and healing when he needed it most.

Rocci concluded, “I am deeply grateful for John's perseverance and his family's support. It's a testament to what can be achieved when everyone works together toward a shared goal.” 

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About Carteret Heart Care

Carteret Health Care is a vibrant 135-bed independent, not-for-profit community hospital dedicated to serving our beautiful coastal community in eastern North Carolina. As the sole North Carolina member of the prestigious Mayo Clinic Care Network, we are at the forefront of advancing health and wellness through innovative approaches to safety, quality, service, and value. Our mission is to provide exceptional, patient-centered care while fostering a compassionate and supportive environment for everyone we serve. For more information on Carteret Health Care, visit CarteretHealth.org.