This is my first time to run a marathon and I am running it in memory of my best friend Alan who died in 1999 when he was just 19 years of age. The charity I’ve chosen to support is “Act for Meningitis” which aims to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of meningitis and offers free support services in Ireland to those affected by the disease. (See: http://actformeningitis.ie)

Brief Note on Meningitis:

Meningitis is a serious disease where the lining around a person's spine and brain becomes inflamed. It can be caused by a virus or bacteria infection, with the bacterial strain being responsible for most deaths. Meningitis and Septicaemia (blood poisoning) often occur together.

Brief Stats Regarding Meningitis:

Ireland has the highest rate of meningococcal disease in Europe. Mortality rates for those contracting the disease are 5-15% and 10-15% suffer permanent disability including limb amputation, seizures, scarring, hearing loss, intellectual disability, and kidney failure.