The Charity / Their Mission:

Meningitis is the second largest infectious killer of under 5s globally and affects over 5 million people, around the world, every year. It can manifest itself as a bacterial, viral or fungal infection that enters the body causing the meninges, the lining around the brain and the spinal cord, to swell. This can lead to life-threatening blood poisoning, known as septicaemia, and results in permanent damage to the brain or nerves for 1 in 5 sufferers.  

There are vaccines available that protect against some of the most common causes of meningitis and septicaemia and they’ve successfully reduced the number of cases worldwide. However, there are still many causes of meningitis and septicaemia for which there aren’t currently any vaccines and most of the ones we do have aren’t routinely provided in some parts of the world.

The Meningitis Research Foundation not only campaigns for a cure, but also supports the families that are impacted by meningitis through their helplines, support days and befriending schemes.  Meningitis is a largely preventable and treatable disease.  All the monies raised on my journey will contribute towards MRF's ground breaking goal of defeating meningitis globally by 2030. 

My story

The Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF) holds a special place in my heart.  On 24th November 1999 my Dad, Mike Dean, lost his life to a very short battle with meningitis.  The devastating news came as a huge shock to us all and left my Mum a single parent to three young children.  Nonetheless, we still had an amazing childhood and for that I will always be incredibly grateful. 

As kids, my Mum organised and participated in numerous charity events to raise money for the MRF. These are memories that I still cherish now. Sadly, in June of 2014 my Mother passed away. To continue her work for the MRF and in memory of my Dad, I will be climbing to the summit of Mount Toubkal, in October 2020, to raise money for the MRF.

In recent years, I have realised the overwhelming impact of the work that MRF do and have been inspired not only by the scale of support they provide but by the dedication they have to do it as well. It's my goal to donate a significant amount of money to MRF, to help them to achieve their target of defeating meningitis by 2030. I intend to do this by hosting several events with the MFM team (comprising myself, Isabelle, Jessica & Marcus), over the course of the year, including a dinner & dance, BBQs, live music events and even sports days.

The Challenge

On 24th October 2020, just a month before the 20th anniversary of my Dad's passing, I will be heading to Morocco for 6 days to complete my first high altitude trek to the summit of Mount Toubkal.  It's the highest Peak in North Africa, reaching 4,167m above sea level.  

This is a monumental challenge that requires a high level of fitness and intense training as well as a great deal of mental strength. It will mean a complete lifestyle change for me but I’m fully committed to this epic journey.  

I am self-funding the trip (a total cost of £1,200) to ensure that every single penny donated by you lovely lot contributes directly to the important work carried out by the Meningitis Research Foundation, edging us ever closer to a world where we no longer have to worry about falling victim to meningitis.

I will be posting regular updates along the way so follow my journey and progress using the #MountainsforMike. Please dig deep, and help me to work towards a world where meningitis doesn’t exist.