Tragic loss (From Penarth Times)

Tragic loss

I WAS saddened to read your recent article "Parents mourn loss of toddler to meningitis" about the tragic death of Joe Davies, aged three years, from Dinas Powys.

On behalf of Meningitis UK, which represents many families who have experienced the devastation that this disease causes, I wish to express my deepest sympathies to his family and friends.

Bacterial meningitis and meningococcal septicaemia are such cruel and complicated diseases.

In most cases it happens so quickly there is little time to realise something is wrong. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance that everyone concerned is aware of the common symptoms of meningitis and those that may exist with meningococcal septicaemia.

Meningitis UK is funding a number of research programmes throughout the country. We are making a significant contribution in the fight to eradicate these diseases.

All the time it is a battle between the scientist and the bacteria, and through dogged persistent research new vaccines will be developed.

It is our vision to see a vaccine to protect against all forms of bacterial meningitis and septicaemia so that the devastation these horrific diseases cause will be gone forever.

The driving force behind our fundraising activities to support our research programmes continues to be our friends and supporters, many of whom have experienced the trauma meningitis and meingococcal septicaemia can cause.

If any of your readers could help our cause we would be extremely grateful.

For further details about the work of Meningitis UK or for information regarding the symptoms of meningitis and meningococcal septicaemia, contact: Communications Department, Meningitis UK, 25 Cleeve Wood Road, Downend, Bristol BS16 2SF or visit www.meningitisuk.org

Nicola Fisher

Communications Officer

Meningitis UK