Bethany Lauren Smith, born on August 25th 1999, was the daughter of Jane and Ian Smith. Always happy and smiling, bright and full of fun, Beth was well loved among her friends and family and a popular member of her local nursery. On February 23rd 2001, at the age of 18 months, Beth was taken poorly at nursery. As the day progressed she became worse until she was admitted to hospital where unfortunately she passed away a few hours later. Beth was diagnosed as having Meningitis.

Whilst Beth’s life was sadly all too short, she touched many people and continues to do so. Her family and friends have since undertaken a range of charity events to help raise money for the Meningitis Research Foundation (www.meningitis.org).

On the 25th April I’m running the London Marathon to help raise money for the foundation in memory of Beth. The money raised will be used to fund research into new methods of prevention, detection and treatment of meningitis and septicaemia. In addition it will help support those affected by the disease through the foundation’s helpline, befriending scheme and membership. Money raised will also increase awareness of the diseases through a range of resources for the public and health professionals

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