🌟 I'm Taking on The Sahara Trek 2026 in Memory of Leila my beautiful daughter 🌟

In March 2026, I’ll be joining a group of incredible Meningitis Now supporters to trek 50km across the Sahara Desert — one of the largest and most breath-taking deserts in the world.

This challenge will take us through sand dunes, ancient riverbeds, and scorching temperatures of up to 35°C. It’s a physically demanding journey, but nothing compared to the emotional journey of grief, loss, and mental health struggles that many of us have faced.

We’ll be guided by local Berbers, camping under the stars each night, and embracing a way of life far removed from our own. It’s completely out of my comfort zone — but I’m doing this in Leila’s memory, and alongside others who carry similar stories of love and loss.

I'm raising money for Meningitis Now, a charity dedicated to funding research, raising awareness, and supporting families affected by this cruel disease. Every step we take is about turning loss into action — making sure others get the help and hope they need.

If you can, please donate and help me reach my fundraising goal. Whether it’s a few pounds or a larger gift, every donation fuels my trek and my mission. Can’t donate? Sharing Leila's story is just as powerful. brings us closer to a future free from meningitis.

Your donation will:

• Fund life-changing support services

• Help families in crisis

• Keep Leila's legacy alive

💪 Training starts now. The trek will be tough, but your support will drive me forward.

Thank you for your support — it means the world. ❤️

💕 Leila’s Story

Leila was born on 6th October 2020, during the height of the COVID pandemic — our miracle child.

At just three weeks old, we discovered that she was profoundly deaf. After 13 months of hospital visits, assessments, and tests, she received bilateral cochlear implants — and that’s where the fun truly began!

Keeping her processors on was a full-time job in itself, but one day, around 18 months old, the penny dropped — and she absolutely thrived.

Because hearing loss is linked to balance, Leila was often unsteady and would fall a lot. But her determination was incredible to watch. No matter how many times she fell, she always got straight back up to try again.

In January 2023, Leila contracted pneumonia. From then on, she was poorly on and off.

Tragically, in July 2023, she passed away from bacterial meningitis, after contracting it twice within two weeks — two different strains, a situation so rare it’s practically unheard of.

Her passing has left a hole in the hearts of everyone who loved her, but her story continues to inspire action.

By sharing Leila’s journey, we hope to raise awareness of meningitis, encourage early recognition of symptoms, and remind people to trust their instincts when it comes to their health and the health of their loved ones.

We also aim to highlight the importance of follow-up care for children and adults who remain unwell after treatment.

🌟 Raising Awareness

Meningitis can be life-threatening and can strike at any age — but with awareness and quick action, lives can be saved.

Through Leila’s Legacy, we want to share:

The signs and symptoms of meningitis

Why it’s vital to seek medical help immediately

The message: Don’t delay. Trust your instincts. Acting fast saves lives.

Every life saved through awareness is a tribute to Leila’s memory. 🌈

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