Erin is Raising Money for Meningitis Now

I am running a half-marathon to raise money for Meningitis Now - every donation, big or small, will help make a difference.

My Story:

In June 2018, I felt on top of the world; I had just finished my undergraduate degree in Neuroscience and was about to start a master's degree in Psychology. However, I suddenly became very unwell, and at first, doctors were unsure what was happening to me. Eventually, I decided that I needed to go back to my GP and said that I thought I had a neurological problem...less than 4 hours after this appointment, my world went black.

 

When I 'woke-up' in hospital about four weeks later, the consultant neurologist told me that I had Bacterial Meningoencephalitis (an infection of the brain and tissue surrounding the brain and spinal cord [meninges]) and that they had started a long course of intravenous antibiotics. It was a very frightening time for myself, my friends and my family, and for a while, we were unsure what the future would bring. So here began a long road to recovery: I had to learn to walk, balance, hold a pen, to do everything all over again.

 

I am pleased to say that after 6 weeks in hospital and help from physiotherapists, I fully recovered (apart from the occasional migraine) and started my master's course in September 2018. Since then, I have graduated with a distinction in Psychology and have begun applying for PhD's and working towards a research career. While this experience changed my life, I know that I am very fortunate as many people are left with life-changing disabilities following Meningitis.

So, I have decided to run a half-marathon to raise awareness and support Meningitis Now. I wanted to set myself a challenge that would turn a difficult life experience into something that makes a positive difference to others. Those of you who know me well, will know that I am not a 'runner'. In fact, for most of my life I have actively avoided long distance running, so this will be a challenge that pushes me to step out of my comfort zone. 

 

Meningitis Now is the leading UK charity with 30 years of experience, dedicated to raising awareness of Meningitis, providing support and funding preventative research. Meningitis is a life-threatening, infectious disease that can leave devastation in its wake. Many who survive Meningitis will have long-term disabilities and life-altering symptoms. This charity works tirelessly to move towards a future where people do not die from Meningitis and to ensure that anyone affected receives the support they need to live a happy, complete life.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to read my story and for contributing to this cause. Every penny makes a huge difference.

Erin.