Something close to our hearts

We have two beloved grandchildren - both boys. When our first grandson was 10 months old - a very healthy, happy little boy - he became very poorly one Sunday morning and by the evening was diagnosed with severe meningitis and septicaemia. Somehow he hung on to life, was rushed to the Cosmic Unit at St. Mary's, Paddington by a brilliant recovery team and against all odds survived. He is now again a happy little boy but with long term effects to live with.

We are so grateful to the staff of the COSMIC Unit. They work with very sick children and desperate parents with great skill, care and empathy. Also our great thanks to the help and support of the Meningitis Research Foundataion. To the right are the links to the websites of both the bodies. Please, please make yourselves familiar with the symptoms of Meningitis (and the 24 hour helpline). Meningitis strikes all ages, the effects are devastating and it is very, very fast. Know your child and follow your instincts - better to make a fuss and be in error than to lose a loved one.

Finally, both the COSMIC Unit and the Meningitis Research Foundation do a brilliant job but desperately need funds for research and to support those who have not been lucky. On each site there is a link for donations