We are at the heart of the initiative that is working with the World Health Organisation and leading experts on the disease to tackle meningitis globally. Our intrepid volunteers are taking on this incredible challenge and raising money to help us defeat meningitis and septicaemia by 2030.

Meningitis is a very serious, life-threatening illness which is caused by swelling of the lining around the brain (the meninges) and the spinal cord primarily due to germs entering the body. If not treated quickly, it can cause life-threatening blood poisoning (septicaemia or sepsis) and cause permanent damage to the brain or nerves. Meningitis and septicaemia can occur from either bacterial, viral or fungal infection.

In general, babies and young children are mostly affected by meningitis followed by young adults and teenagers. However, anyone of any age group can be affected.

During this year I have set myself the challenge to raise £2,660 for the Meningitis research foundation to help support their incredible work in fighting this illness. To achieve this I will be participating in running challenges, the lake district three peak challenge, supermarket bag packing, quiz nights and many more. The final challenge I will be embarking on is to climb mount Kilimanjaro in early September- The world's highest free standing peak.

Any support with this campaign would be greatly appreciated.