In 2010 my Grandma, Ann Tomkins, was diagnosed with bacterial meningitis. She thought she had flu but rapidly declined and ended up in intensive care for 3 weeks under the brilliant care of The Walton Centre, Liverpool. It was a miracle she survived. As a family, we feel it is important to continue to raise awareness of this disease and support research. Meningitis affects everyone.

We were really lucky as my Grandma made a full recovery. Let me share with you some interesting facts about meningitis:

• Around 10% of the population carries meningococcus without causing any illness, this can then be transmitted from person to person.
• The meningococcus can cause meningitis, septicaemia and pneumonia.
• Pre-covid there were an estimated 8,000 cases of meningitis in the UK each year ranging from infants to the elderly.
• Vaccination is very important and is available to all young people in the UK.
• Educating people on how to recognize the symptoms can help prevent death and disability.

I’d like to contribute to a future where there is a 100% vaccine coverage, where no one in the UK loses their life to meningitis and everyone affected gets the support they need to rebuild their lives.

My Mum and I have spent many days hiking and climbing mountains which is why we thought this Lake District 8 Peak Challenge was a perfect opportunity to do something to help the organisation that really helped my Grandma. I’d love it if you could support this challenge and donate some money (and any amount is greatly appreciated). This is an incredible opportunity for us to genuinely make a difference by educating and raising awareness.