Our CEO, Vinny Smith, shares why engaging with the Global Road Map is so important:
Why is it important to involve patients and people affected by meningitis in efforts to defeat the disease?
"Because it’s only the people who have been directly impacted by this disease who know the full story of how it changes lives, relationships, and communities forever. They are the experts in what living through this experience means. We must listen to them because they hold everyone to account for what must change so no one has to go through what they have in future."
How can people affected by meningitis get involved and help to achieve the Road Map goals?
"Defeating meningitis is a very personal thing. Anyone, anywhere can take action in support of the Road Map through small actions. For example, by sharing awareness on social media or hosting specific events, perhaps to coincide with World Meningitis Day on 5 October. If you have had meningitis, you are already defeating it in your own way – sharing your story could provide support and inspiration in ways you’d never imagine. It could really change lives."
What is the Race to 2030 and why does it matter?
"Race to 2030 is about making sure people affected by meningitis are at the heart of efforts to defeat the disease. This includes developing advocacy resources, supporting opportunities to get involved in national plans for meningitis and coordinating efforts with partners and wider civil society. Because it is only by being united that we will defeat meningitis."
Can we win the race to 2030?
"Yes, but it’s going to take the involvement of everyone who cares about this issue to make it happen. It won’t just happen if we hope it will. That means everyone working together from the World Health Organization through to groups willing to advocate for change. Every single person who wants this to happen needs to stand up and help."