On Wednesday 21st December 2016 we lost our youngest son, Joshua, suddenly to meningitis.  He was 7 months and 26 days old.  Joshua was a beautiful, happy, strong, healthy, perfect baby & full of life.  We were left in shock, devastated & deeply traumatized by what had happened.

We have been supported by a fantastic charity called Meningitis Now.  Meningitis, although it is rare, can affect anyone.  It may not have been as rare if it were not for the efforts of this charity.  It's founder, Steve Dayman, is the driving force behind the amount of meningitis vaccines currently available in the UK today.  He too lost his son in 1982 to the disease.

Joshua had all the vaccinations available, but there is currently not an effective vaccine for the meningitis he had.  Meningitis causing bacteria mutates and new strains are found which means continual research & funding is needed to try and eradicate this dreadful disease.

We have decided to participate in the Milton Keynes Marathon event on Monday 7th May as a whole family in memory of our beautiful little boy.  Anne-Marie will be taking part in the Team Marathon along with her 2 sisters & brother-in-law.  Ethan & George along with their Dad, Phil, Grandma & Grandad, Aunties, Uncles, 3 younger nieces and one nephew will be taking part at the same event in a Super Hero 1.5 mile fun run.  We will all be able to get dressed up in our favourite superhero costumes.

We have set ourselves a target of £2504.16.  The reason for this is it's the date Joshua was born (25.04.16).

We hope that that you will support us and anything you can give would be deeply appreciated to help support a charity who are doing vital work in trying to save lives, raise awareness & in supporting families affected by meningitis.

In memory of our son, Joshua Ryan Bates.