In April 2001, my sister-in-law Danielle tragically passed away at just 15 years old due to bacterial meningitis.  Danielle was full of fun and lived life to the full!  She had so much ahead of her.  After 24 years, there is still not a day goes by when she is not talked about or thought of.  Danielle will be in our hearts always.  ‘One Sweet Day’  🩷

Meningitis is a life-threatening infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria Meningitidis, which can cause severe illness that can rapidly result in death.  Although most people will recover, some will be left with life-changing after-effects & tragically, some will not survive.

I am taking part in the London Landmarks Half Marathon 2025 to raise funds for Meningitis Now, a charity dedicated to supporting those affected by meningitis & funding vital research that finds new, & enhances existing, vaccines to save lives & prevent disability.  They provide specialist support to help rebuild lives & ensure no-one must face meningitis alone.

Bacterial meningitis

·        Bacterial meningitis can affect anyone at any age

·        Most common in babies & young children, who are more at risk because their bodies defences are not fully developed

·        Teenagers & young people are also at increased risk, particularly during the first year at university.  This is because they are more likely to be carrying the bacteria that cause meningitis in the back of their nose & throats.

How do you get bacterial meningitis?

·        Both adults & children can carry meningitis causing bacteria harmlessly in the back of their throats.

·        These bacteria are passed from person to person by coughing, sneezing & intimate kissing.

·        Nearly everyone develops immunity as a result of carrying these germs.

·        Only occasionally do these bacteria get into the blood stream & cause meningitis or septicemia.

https://www.meningitisnow.org/meningitis-explained/signs-and-symptoms/

Meningitis is a devastating disease, but with increased awareness, research & support, we can make a difference.  If treated promptly, bacterial meningitis is less likely to become life-threatening

Please consider donating and helping me honour Danielle’s memory by supporting this important cause.  Every donation, big or small, will help save lives.

Together, we can create a future where no family must endure the heartbreak of meningitis.

Thank you so much for your generosity and support and helping me reach my goal.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.