As part of our ongoing research site visit programme, fifteen year old Claire Bohan visited Trinity College Dublin to find out more about the MRF funded research project,
Identifying meningococcal molecules that can suppress our immune defence system. Here's her report.
At the request of Clodagh Hegarty, Medical Officer, Meningitis Research Foundation, Dublin office, I received an invitation to attend Trinity College Dublin on December 22nd 2010. I was thrilled.
Three years earlier, to the exact date, at just twelve years of age, I got meningococcal meningitis with septicaemia.
The purpose of the trip was to visit a Science laboratory in Trinity College where a small group of people, headed by Ed Lavelle were carrying out research into meningitis.
This expensive project was funded by Meningitis Research Foundation.
I was surprised at how small the laboratory was, but, from this tiny room, huge steps have been made to combat this devastating disease.
Anne McNaughton gave an excellent presentation of her findings. As a junior cert student, I found the graphs of their findings were easily understood.
I felt honoured to be in the presence of such a dedicated team. It was wonderful to see the end result of hard earned monies raised through sponsored walks, donations etc. I now realize, that every cent counts.
It is very re-assuring to think that a cure of this disease could be achieved in the very near future. It was nice to meet up with and have a cuppa and chat with Mary and Gay Farnan. Sadly their 23 year old son Alan died from meningitis just four years ago.
Read Claire's story in our Book of Experience
Read Alan Farnan's story in our Book of Experience
See more MRF member site visits
Posted in About meningitis & septicaemia by Claire Bohan on 14 January 2011
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