Meningitis in your words

Connor Duncan's story

  • Location: England
  • Categories: Pneumococcal
  • Age: Toddler 1-3
  • Relationship: Parent
  • Outcome: Recovery with after effects
  • After effects: Co-ordination problems
Connor Duncan

Connor had pneumococcal meningitis at 15 months. It went undiagnosed three times by GPs, we were told by one GP it was ear wax.

He was spiking temps of 40 and his right ear was inflamed. We eventually took him to A&E; they took bloods and did a lumbar puncture, CRP came back at 310. They started him on IV antibiotics and he ended up with a central line and was in hospital for a month.

"As a family it’s affected us emotionally"

Connor has been left with delayed speech and concentration and co-ordination problems, but is coming on.

As a family it’s affected us emotionally. Connor's dad finds it difficult to cope with his behaviour at times; he finds it difficult to understand it’s underlying problems and not Connor just being naughty!

Connor is to start school this year so we’ll see what the future holds. I would say from a mother's point of view go with your instinct and fight for what you believe in, and don't take no for an answer!

REBECCA DUNCAN
JANUARY 2010