A single, seemingly harmless mistake turned life-altering for 33-year-old Chris Capper, from Queensland, Australia. What should have been an ordinary visit to a friend’s house in July 2021, led Capper down a nightmarish path of severe health complications. His health rapidly declined after drinking unfiltered natural spring water, leaving him battling a life-threatening lung condition that doctors are still struggling to treat.
An X-Ray shows holes in Capper’s lungs. Credit: GoFundMe
The Fatal Mistake: Drinking Unfiltered Spring Water
During a visit to his friend’s property in Mount Elliot, Capper consumed what he thought was harmless spring water. But the decision to drink this unfiltered water set off a chain reaction that would change his life forever. Shortly after consuming the water, Capper’s health began to spiral downward. He experienced increasing fatigue, and alarming symptoms began to manifest, but doctors couldn’t immediately determine the cause.
A Year-Long Search for a Diagnosis
Despite frequent visits to doctors and specialists, it took more than a year for Capper to receive a proper diagnosis. He was eventually diagnosed with a rare and serious lung disease caused by nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), a type of bacteria commonly found in soil, water, and dust. This bacteria can enter the body through various means, and in Capper’s case, it was likely introduced via the contaminated water he drank at his friend’s house.
NTM infections are notoriously difficult to diagnose and treat, often leading to long-term complications. According to the American Lung Association, the severity of NTM lung disease varies widely between individuals, depending on several factors, such as the strain of bacteria, the level of exposure, and the patient’s overall health. Unfortunately, Capper’s condition has rapidly deteriorated since his diagnosis.
The Devastating Effects of NTM on Capper’s Health
For Chris Capper, NTM infection hasn’t just attacked his lungs—it has spread throughout his entire body. The infection has wreaked havoc on his left hip, lumbar spine, and even his skin, causing nodules and septic arthritis in his elbows. The bacteria’s aggressive spread has led to a range of debilitating symptoms that have left Capper barely able to manage day-to-day activities.
The infection has severely compromised his lung function. Within just six weeks of his diagnosis, an X-ray revealed that the bacteria had consumed a third of his lung tissue, leaving a visible hole in his lungs. His condition is exacerbated by type 1 diabetes and cystic fibrosis, both of which weaken his immune system and make him more vulnerable to infections.
An Uphill Battle: Daily Struggles and Medical Challenges
Capper’s daily life has become a struggle. He is now dependent on 16 different medications, including four powerful antibiotics, just to keep the infection under control. However, these medications come with severe side effects, leaving him feeling mentally drained and physically weak. In a heartbreaking confession, Capper admitted, “I can’t help myself at all, and the doctors don’t know much about the bug, so it just feels like they’re waiting for me to die.”
Capper shared photos of how the disease is impacting his body. Credit: GoFundMe
Capper’s condition has led to several hospitalizations, and his symptoms have only worsened over time. His kidney function once plummeted to a dangerously low six percent, and he now experiences seizures in his legs, vision loss, and difficulty using his hands. Vomiting blood, severe bleeding during bowel movements, and extreme fatigue have become common occurrences for Capper, robbing him of his quality of life.
The Uncertainty of Recovery: A Grim Outlook
Unfortunately, despite all the treatments, Capper’s prognosis remains grim. His doctors have expressed that the infection is likely incurable, and the best they can do is attempt to manage the symptoms and prolong his life. One of Capper’s doctors revealed in a medical report that their primary goal is “to try and suppress the infection and buy him some time.”
This life-threatening condition has left Capper emotionally and physically exhausted. He regularly drives 14 hours to Brisbane for specialized treatment at The Prince Charles Hospital, but the long journey is physically draining and emotionally taxing. Despite the grim reality, Capper continues to fight for his life.
A Battle on Multiple Fronts: Financial Strain and Health Costs
As if battling a life-threatening illness wasn’t enough, Capper now faces overwhelming financial burdens due to his mounting medical expenses. Managing his condition requires frequent hospital visits, costly medications, and additional treatments. On top of that, his diabetes, cystic fibrosis, and now septic arthritis have made his medical expenses skyrocket.
The infection can be seen spreading through his body. Credit: GoFundMe
In an attempt to cover these costs, Capper has turned to the community for help. He launched a GoFundMe campaign, hoping to raise enough money to purchase a $4,500 insulin pump to manage his diabetes, along with other critical medical costs. The support from the public has been a lifeline for Capper, but the expenses continue to mount.
The Dangers of Unfiltered Water and NTM Infections
Capper’s story serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers in our environment. While most of us think of water as a source of life and hydration, unfiltered water can harbor dangerous bacteria such as nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM). NTM infections are particularly concerning because they can go undetected for long periods, causing significant damage to the lungs and other organs.
According to health experts, NTM bacteria are widespread in natural water sources and soil, but they rarely pose a risk to people with healthy immune systems. However, those with compromised health, such as individuals with cystic fibrosis or diabetes, are at much higher risk. The bacteria can cause chronic infections that are difficult to treat and may result in permanent damage.
Conclusion: A Cautionary Tale
Chris Capper’s life was turned upside down by a simple mistake—drinking unfiltered water. His battle with nontuberculous mycobacteria has been long, painful, and uncertain, with no cure in sight. Capper’s story highlights the importance of awareness around water safety and the potential risks of consuming untreated water, even in seemingly safe environments.
As Capper continues to fight for his life, his resilience in the face of adversity is inspiring. His experience serves as a powerful reminder to take every precaution when it comes to personal health and to be vigilant about the unseen dangers in our environment. For now, Capper remains hopeful, relying on the support of his community and his determination to keep fighting.
