'I was given 48 hours to live' as Rochdale mum survives meningitis after ear infection triggers brain swelling

Monday, 16 June 2025 08:31

By David Murphy

Lisa Thorpe in hospital. Source: Submitted

A Rochdale mother has shared her harrowing story of surviving bacterial meningitis, after what began as a simple earache left her in a coma and fighting for her life.

Lisa Thorpe was found collapsed on her living room floor by her ex-partner on 12 March 2025. The mother of two was rushed to Fairfield Hospital by ambulance, where doctors quickly realised the seriousness of her condition.

“I had earache which turned into an ear infection, I didn’t think anything of it at first,” Lisa said. “But suddenly I was in hospital, and they were telling my family I might not make it.”

She was diagnosed with bacterial meningitis and placed in an induced coma. Transferred to Salford Royal Hospital, Lisa was given just 24 to 48 hours to live as her brain swelled dangerously.

Doctors inserted a bolt in her skull to relieve the pressure. After four days in a coma, Lisa began to breathe unaided and was transferred back to Fairfield.

“I woke up on the Saturday and just remember being confused. The machines, the wires, it was terrifying. My teenage son was in tears seeing me like that.”

Now recovering at home, Lisa is dealing with lasting effects. She suffers from hearing loss, requires a wheelchair for longer journeys, and cannot walk far due to issues with her knees. “I won’t be able to work again,” she added.

“But I’m still here. I’m alive. And I get to see my four-year-old grow up, something I might not have if things had gone differently.”

Lisa is urging others to take ear infections seriously and to get checked if they experience anything unusual.

“I just want people to be aware, don’t ignore earache. Ask to be tested for meningitis if you feel something’s not right. It’s changed my life completely, but I’m grateful I pulled through.”