Latest news with #MeningitisResearchFoundation


Glasgow Times
a day ago
- Health
- Glasgow Times
Joke book created in memory of hockey player who died from meningitis
Big Eddie's Joke Book is a tribute to Eddie Rosen, son of children's author and poet, Michael Rosen, whose died from meningitis at the age of 18 in 1999. Created by Eddie's friends, and former teammates from the Gunners Hockey Club in London and their families, the book is a celebration of his life and love of laughter. Michael Rosen with son Eddie (Meningitis Research Foundation/PA) It is packed with jokes, limericks and stories, contributed by people whose lives were touched by Eddie's personality. Eddie was part of a youth hockey programme run by Arsenal in the Community. Freddie Hudson, Eddie's former coach who is now head of Arsenal in the Community, said: 'A joke book is a fitting way to remember Eddie. Humour was at the heart of the Gunners Hockey set-up and Eddie was a master. 'Knowing that people may find themselves smiling or chuckling over the jokes is a lovely way of keeping his memory alive.' Charlotte Ulett, senior events and community manager from the Meningitis Research Foundation, said: 'Meningitis can strike anyone, anywhere, at any time. Our vision is a world free from the fear of meningitis. 'What makes this joke book special is that it's a touching tribute, giving everyone a glimpse of Eddie's character and the fun he brought to those around him. 'Turning laughter into life-saving awareness is also a powerful way of keeping his legacy alive. Each smile and joke shared from the pages of this book is a fitting way of honouring Eddie's memory while raising vital awareness.'

Western Telegraph
a day ago
- Health
- Western Telegraph
Joke book created in memory of hockey player who died from meningitis
Big Eddie's Joke Book is a tribute to Eddie Rosen, son of children's author and poet, Michael Rosen, whose died from meningitis at the age of 18 in 1999. Created by Eddie's friends, and former teammates from the Gunners Hockey Club in London and their families, the book is a celebration of his life and love of laughter. Michael Rosen with son Eddie (Meningitis Research Foundation/PA) It is packed with jokes, limericks and stories, contributed by people whose lives were touched by Eddie's personality. Eddie was part of a youth hockey programme run by Arsenal in the Community. Freddie Hudson, Eddie's former coach who is now head of Arsenal in the Community, said: 'A joke book is a fitting way to remember Eddie. Humour was at the heart of the Gunners Hockey set-up and Eddie was a master. 'Knowing that people may find themselves smiling or chuckling over the jokes is a lovely way of keeping his memory alive.' Charlotte Ulett, senior events and community manager from the Meningitis Research Foundation, said: 'Meningitis can strike anyone, anywhere, at any time. Our vision is a world free from the fear of meningitis. 'What makes this joke book special is that it's a touching tribute, giving everyone a glimpse of Eddie's character and the fun he brought to those around him. 'Turning laughter into life-saving awareness is also a powerful way of keeping his legacy alive. Each smile and joke shared from the pages of this book is a fitting way of honouring Eddie's memory while raising vital awareness.'

Leader Live
29-04-2025
- Health
- Leader Live
Wrexham: Advocate for meningitis completes London Marathon
Drew Darlington from Gwersyllt has successfully completed the London Marathon (Sunday, April 27) finishing in an impressive 3 hours and 3 minutes, despite the hot conditions on the day. He took on the challenge to raise funds for Meningitis Research Foundation, after both he and his brother survived meningitis as teenagers due to a rare genetic condition. Drew has raised an incredible £2,370 exceeding his £2,000 target. You can donate here. Following weeks of high mileage training alongside work, Drew says some weeks were certainly tougher than others. Drew with his London Marathon 2025 medal (Image: UGC) "I'm very lucky to have a lot of friends with similar goals so I didn't often have to train on my own", he said. "I'm also part of two running clubs, Penyffordd Run club and Buckley Run Club therefore I join the club sessions when I can." Since his meningitis diagnosis, Drew has used the Research Foundation to support his journey and gain a clearer understanding of the disease. He has also contributed to 'Meningitis in your words' to help build the world's largest digital collection of meningitis experiences. He adds: "I think the work the charity does is fantastic and I wanted to do my bit to help out. "Having experienced meningitis twice in my family I wanted to help raise awareness about the disease. "I believe that sharing mine and my brother's experiences would help others in gaining clarity and understanding of the disease and some of the signs and symptoms to be aware of. Not everyone will experience meningitis in the same way but I believe it's very important to share your story. "Since having the diagnosis, I have definitely become more cautious and aware of different signs and symptoms. "Whenever I feel unwell, I will naturally go through a checklist to try and rule out meningitis. I'm aware that the symptoms can start off quite mildly and be similar to a common cold or flu though they can develop and worsen rapidly." On marathon day, Drew was delighted to receive a new PB (personal best) time. He set out to achieve a sub three hour record, though given the hot weather on the day, he's thrilled with the outcome. MOST READ "It was very tough, especially after mile 20 where I had to dig deep until the end. "This was my fourth Marathon though definitely my favourite yet! Previously I have ran Chester, Manchester and Lochness Marathon and my previous personal best was 03:14:13. Drew currently has no other fundraisers planned and is enjoying some well-deserved rest. However, he'll be running again very soon with a few planned races including the Mid Cheshire 5K on May 23. We wish him the very best of luck!