Dad to run marathon for tots

A FATHER of two, from Tallaght, has set himself the challenge of completing the Rock and Roll half marathon in Dublin next month in aid of Meningitis Research Foundation.

Michael Fox chose to support the charity after his baby daughter contracted enteroviral meningitis in November 2016.

“My daughter Perrie contracted meningitis when she was only one-week-old,

? Michael said.

“On November 14 she became floppy and sleepy and had a very high temperature.

“My wife, Lisa, and I were concerned so we brought her to Tallaght Hospital where she was tested for meningitis straight away and the results came back positive.

“Perrie was kept in for four days but thankfully she recovered well, without any after effects.

“However, I know many others aren’t so fortunate.

“My wife’s three-year-old nephew, Adam, contracted pneumococcal meningitis in 2008, resulting in hearing loss and he now wears a cochlear implant as a result so we are well aware of the impact that this disease can have. 

“It was a very scary time for me and my wife,

? Michael added,

“and so I have decided to run my first half marathon for Meningitis Research Foundation because I want to raise much needed funds and awareness of the disease that kills around 1,000 people around the world every day and leaves many more disabled.

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Monika Marchlewicz, Ireland Manager of Meningitis Research Foundation, said they were extremely grateful to Michael for running this marathon, being staged over August 12 to 13, on their behalf.

“As he is aware, meningitis and septicaemia are deadly diseases that can strike without warning, sometimes killing in hours, and leaving survivors with life-changing after effects.

“We rely on voluntary donations to fund our vital work into the prevention, detection and treatment of meningitis and septicaemia and to support those affected, so every euro he raises from running this race will make a difference to the charity.

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Meningitis is an inflammation of the lining of the brain. It can be caused by several different organisms. Some are bacteria and some are viruses.

Bacterial Meningitis is uncommon but can be very serious and requires urgent medical attention and treatment with antibiotics.  Viral Meningitis is less serious and cannot be helped by antibiotic treatment.

To help  the charity through other fundraising ideas, call their Dublin office on 01-8196931 or visit: www.meningitis.org/get-involved