When I was 8 months old, I contracted meningitis and was in hospital for 2 and a half weeks. 

Meningitis is the inflammation of the membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. It is an infection that can affect anyone at any point in their life, and it can be fatal. At present, no vaccine offers 100% protection against meningitis.

Because of ongoing research into treatments and thanks to an incredible team of people at the Whittington Hospital, I survived and wasn't left with any long term effects. The photo above is the first photo taken of me having come home from hospital. 

I was very lucky. 22 people contract Meningitis every day and between 5-10% of new infections are fatal. 

So, on the 21st May 2023, almost exactly 33 years since I returned from hospital, I am going to run 13.1 miles around Hackney, my childhood home, and raise money for Meningitis Now. This is a charity with a vision for a future where no-one in the UK loses their life to meningitis and everyone affected gets the support they need to rebuild their lives. 

I would love it if you could support me to raise at least £500 for this brilliant charity. Any amount you are able to donate will go a long way.

Thank you!