On December 30th 2020, we suffered the most tragic loss of our wonderful daughter, sister, cousin and friend Lucy Maria McPartlan. Lucy passed away when she contracted pneumococcal meningitis. We are still stunned to this day, by the speed and deadly impact of this lethal virus.

Everyone who knew Lucy, feels the huge vacuum that has been left by her passing, every single day. Emma Corder, Laura Milward, Jenn Ridley & Dan McPartlan want to raise as much money as possible, to do whatever we can, to help fund ongoing research into this virus and minimise its impact and the desperate feelings of loss and sadness amongst other families.

Today, half a million people in the UK live with the impact of meningitis. Without vaccines to protect against all types of meningitis, it continues to strike, devastating families across the UK.Meningitis is the inflammation of the membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. It is usually caused by bacteria and viruses. It can strike quickly and kill within hours. Meningitis is indiscriminate; it can affect anyone, of any age, however the under 5's are most at risk, particularly those under the age of one.Meningitis Now is the founder of the meningitis movement and the only charity solely dedicated to fighting meningitis in the UK. With over 35 years' experience, Meningitis Now is working towards a future where no one in the UK loses their life to meningitis and everyone affected gets the support they need.