Team Keelan triumph for Meningitis Research Foundation

Meningitis Research Foundation would like to sincerely thank the team from Bray who took part in the VHI women’s mini-marathon in June, in aid of Meningitis Research Foundation.

Over 50 ladies walked, jogged or ran in memory of 15 year old Keelan O’Connor from Bray who tragically lost his life to meningitis in September 2015. Since then his family and friends have been actively supporting Meningitis Research Foundation and raising much needed funds and disease awareness in his memory.

The day was filled with emotion with the team headed up by Keelan’s auntie Mandy and joined by Keelan’s Mum Leanne and Granny Theresa. A fantastic total of €7305.20 was raised by ‘Team Keelan’ for Meningitis Research Foundation and it will be put to good use by the charity towards their awareness and support work in Ireland.

Background Notes:

• MRF estimates that there are approximately 200 cases of bacterial meningitis and septicaemia every year in Ireland. They are easily mistaken for milder illnesses, but unlike a dose of flu can kill within hours and may cause serious, life-long disabilities. As many as one in 10 of those affected will die and a third of survivors will be left with after-effects, some as serious as brain damage, amputations, blindness and hearing loss
• Since December 2016 all babies born on or after 1st October 2016 are routinely vaccinated against Meningococcal B (MenB) at 2, 4 and 12 months, as part of the Primary Childhood Immunisation Schedule. However no catch up campaign was introduced for older children
• There are currently 17 projects in MRF’s active research programme. Since the charity was founded in 1989, we have awarded 156 research grants. The total value of our investment in vital scientific research is over €24 million
• MRF also supports those already affected with a telephone helpline, home visits and befriending. Our Freefone helpline – 1800 41 33 44 – provides information to the general public and those affected by the disease. We provide symptoms information, research and case studies on this site
• Donations can be made online but people can also donate €2 from their mobile phone by texting MenB to 50300. Texts cost €2. Meningitis Research Foundation will receive a minimum of €1.63. Service provider: LIKECHARITY. Helpline: 076 6805278