James Foti
Think Worldwide fundraising page for the Meningitis Research Foundation
Fundraising for Meningitis Research Foundation
Story
Help us to fundraise for the Meningitis Research Foundation.
We're deeply grateful that you've chosen to spend a moment on our JustGiving page.
At Think Worldwide we have placed all of our names into a hat, entrusting a draw to choose which charity we support through our fundraising efforts this year. James's name was picked out – he has faced a personal journey through the challenges of meningitis and his request is that we all contribute to the battle against this formidable disease by funding vital research.
Your generosity, no matter the size of your contribution, will have a positive impact. Thank you for standing with us in support of this worthwhile cause.
Take some time to read James's story:
Hello everyone, my name is James. I work in the Think Worldwide team but today I write to represent the Meningitis Research Foundation, as well as to share my personal encounter with meningitis.
The Meningitis Research Foundation is a leading global organisation dedicated to conquering meningitis and septicemia. Established in 1989, the foundation has embarked on pioneering research into vaccines to prevent the onset of the disease. In an effort to fund this research, the foundation actively participates in numerous fundraising events and excels in raising public awareness about the critical dangers of meningitis, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.
My personal journey with meningitis began on 8th June 2014. It was an ordinary day spent with friends, yet unexpectedly, I began to feel cold and shivered despite the temperature being a comfortable 20°C. After a meal and a movie at the local cinema, feeling significantly unwell, I returned home. Mistakenly believing I had the flu, I took paracetamol and hoped to feel better by morning. However, the following day, which started with a mathematics exam at college, only saw my condition worsen, with heightened sensitivity to light. After college, I was advised to visit the local doctor's surgery. Upon arrival, I collapsed, and the doctor immediately recognised the potential for meningitis, promptly calling for an ambulance. At the hospital, after several tests, I was diagnosed with meningococcal meningitis. Fortunately, it was detected early enough to prevent sepsis from affecting my limbs, thanks to the swift administration of antibiotics. After a week in the hospital, I was finally able to go home.
A decade later, the repercussions of meningitis continue to affect me, notably my hearing - a common after-effect. However, I consider myself fortunate to have avoided more severe consequences such as brain damage, limb loss, or even death.
Thank you to Think Worldwide for helping to raise vital funds throughout 2024, and thanks to you for taking the time to read this and any support you can give is very much appreciated.