One of my closest friends, Sam, was diagnosed with meningitis at 18 months old. His family will tell you of the utter horror of being told to expect the worst. Sam's story is ultimately a happy one as he made a full recovery and he has been a very close friend of mine for 18 years. The mere possibility that I wouldn't have had, and continue to have, Sam as my friend because of meningitis is unthinkable.

Sam and his family have been the strongest advocates of sharing their story, raising awareness and supporting Meningitis Now. They've also encouraged me to take on the Fire Walk Challenge this year as a fundraiser for Meningitis Now. I'll be walking barefoot across 20 feet of wood embers burning at close to 700 degrees Celsius! Whilst this may seem like a wild thing to do, this fundraiser has the goal of spreading awareness and ultimately saving lives. Knowing the work of Meningitis Now is to save the lives of people like Sam, I cannot stress enough how valuable it is and encourage you to consider a donation in aid of the efforts of Meningitis Now.

Lastly, if nothing else, please take a moment to learn the signs and symptoms of meningitis described here: https://www.meningitisnow.org/meningitis-explained/signs-and-symptoms/. It might save a life!

Thank you!

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