Meningitis Now is the first meningitis patient group in the world, founders of the meningitis movement and the only charity dedicated to fighting meningitis in the UK. Since 1986 they have invested over £12.7m in early stage research.

PAUL's story

Thank you for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Its that time again. Commencing in January 2026 I will be taking part part in at least 8 endurance challenge events in memory of Isabel (Izzy) my 16 year old daughter who died from Meningitis on 20th May 2016. All donations will be in support of Meningitis Now who strive to put an end to this devastating disease and save lives.

1/. Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th January 2026. SFE Gemini Winter Fan Dance challenge. This involves 2 hikes, one on each day, ascending Pen Y Fan twice over a 24km circuit carrying a 24lb loaded Bergen.(2 events in one)

2/. Saturday 5th to 10th March 2026. Sahara Trek 2026 will see a group of intrepid Meningitis Now supporters take to the dunes and ancient riverbeds of one of the largest, and most beautiful deserts in the world. With challenging terrain and highs of 35C, this two-and-a-half-day trek is not for the faint-hearted. Supported by a team of local guides, you will experience the Berber way of life and rest your aching feet beneath the stars as you camp out on the dunes each night.

3/. On Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd April 20256. 104km Isle of Wight ultra challenge. A continuous overnight trek circumnavigating the island. The distance and timing will be verified by passing through a number of official checkpoints.

4/. Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st June 2026. The 100km North Yorkshire ultra challenge. A continuous 100km trek incorporating the coastline and surrounding area. The distance and timing will be verified by passing through various official checkpoints.

5/. Saturday 18th to Sunday 19th July 2026. The 100km Gower Peninsula ultra challenge. A continuous 100km walk starting and finishing at Penrice Castle. The distance and timing will be verified by passing through a number of official checkpoints.

6/. Saturday 12th to Sunday 13th September 2026. The 100km Thames Path challenge. A continuous overnight trek along the banks of the river Thames, from Putney Bridge to Henley. The distance and timing will be verified by passing through a number of official checkpoints.

8/. Friday 13th to Sunday 15th November 2026. The Druids challenge. A 133km trek along the Ridgeway national trail spread over three days.

The money I raise will help fund vital awareness of the signs and symptoms of the disease (it's not just the glass test!), while supporting further research into meningitis and helping provide everything from counselling to adaptive equipment for those whose lives have been changed forever by meningitis.