Wendy Archibald, Deputy Head Teacher at Putney High School, competed in the gruelling London marathon on Sunday in aid of the charity Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF).

60 year old Wendy ran for MRF after one of the students at her school sadly died from meningitis.

Wendy said, “I felt I had to do something significant in 2017, the year in which I turned 60. So, why not run the London marathon I thought. In addition to being a personal challenge it’s a wonderful opportunity to support MRF in memory of my daughter’s friend, Hannah King.

Just over nine years ago Hannah's beautiful life was cruelly cut short by meningitis, just months before her 17th birthday. Hannah, like my two gorgeous daughters, Liv and Abby, was a pupil at Putney High School, where I have had the pleasure of teaching for nearly fifteen years. In the past, Hannah’s mother has come to the school to talk about the MRF and to raise awareness of the charity’s work and of the illness.

“The school has done a lot of fundraising over the years for MRF. I hope this can be the biggest fundraiser we’ve done for the charity yet.”

Wendy has already raised nearly £8,000 and donations are still being gratefully accepted at her fundraising page at: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Wendy-Archibald.

Vinny Smith, Chief Executive of MRF said, “We are really grateful to Wendy for taking on this huge challenge to help raise funds for MRF. Meningitis and septicaemia can strike quickly, sometimes killing in hours, and leaving some survivors with life-changing after effects. The money raised will enable us to fund vital scientific research into the prevention, detection and treatment of meningitis, raise awareness of the disease and support those affected.”
 
The first symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia are usually fever, vomiting, headache and feeling unwell. Limb pain, pale skin, and cold hands and feet often appear earlier than the rash, neck stiffness, dislike of bright lights and confusion.

People who are ill with meningitis and septicaemia can deteriorate rapidly and not everyone gets all of these symptoms. It’s important for people to trust their instincts and get medical help immediately if they suspect meningitis.

The London Marathon is regarded as one of the most popular running events in the world. Starting at Greenwich Park and finishing by Buckingham Palace, the route takes the runners through some of central London’s top attractions.

For information about meningitis and septicaemia call the Freefone helpline on 080 8800 3344 or visit www.meningitis.org.

Article supplied by Samantha Williams