Lord Craig Mackinlay of Richborough has become a powerful symbol of resilience and determination following one of the most severe medical ordeals faced by any serving British parliamentarian. His story is not only one of survival, but of adaptation, technological progress, and renewed public purpose.
In September 2023, Mackinlay was struck by an unexpected and catastrophic illness when a minor infection rapidly developed into sepsis, a life-threatening condition caused by the body’s extreme response to infection. The illness progressed with alarming speed. He was placed into an induced coma and doctors warned his family that his chances of survival were extremely slim. Although he survived, the consequences were devastating: prolonged loss of blood circulation led to the amputation of both arms and both legs, making him a quadruple amputee.
What followed was an extraordinary period of recovery. Through months of intensive hospital care and rehabilitation, Mackinlay began the slow and demanding process of learning to live with advanced prosthetic limbs. Using state-of-the-art artificial arms and legs, he gradually regained independence, mobility, and the ability to return to public life. His prosthetics, combining robotics, sensors, and custom engineering, have attracted widespread attention, leading to his description in the media as Britain’s first “bionic peer”.
Rather than retreat from public service, Mackinlay chose to use his experience to drive awareness and change. After leaving the House of Commons at the 2024 general election, he was appointed to the House of Lords, where he has spoken candidly about sepsis, disability, and the realities of life-altering illness. He has been a vocal advocate for early sepsis diagnosis, improved patient education, and greater investment in prosthetic technology and rehabilitation services within the NHS.
Lord Mackinlay has also highlighted the psychological impact of sudden disability, stressing the importance of long-term support, dignity, and independence for amputees. His willingness to discuss his own physical and emotional recovery has helped to destigmatise disability and showcase the life-changing potential of modern medical technology.
Today, Lord Mackinlay continues to contribute actively in the House of Lords, demonstrating that catastrophic illness need not end a life of public service. His journey stands as a testament to medical innovation, personal resilience, and the capacity to rebuild after profound loss.
In his recent visit to Bexleyheath, Lord Mackinlay spoke about his past and the challenges he faced whilst remaining positive in overcoming this horrific episode in his life. The visit was more like an interview hosted by Councillor Andrew Kennedy from Kent, the visit finished with an open Q & A session in which a vast range of questions were asked about Lord Mackinlay's personal and political life. In conclusion to the visit, Cllr Baroness O'Neill of Bexley OBE (former leader of Bexley Council), thanked both Cllr Kennedy and Lord Mackinlay for providing such a well run interview session, the interview included some great insights into the highs and lows which most people may not have been aware of.
