There’s still time to sign up for some mayhem as part of our May Mayhem month and help us with our research, awareness and support programmes
“May Mayhem is all about having fun in the workplace whilst holding as many fundraising activities as possible,” explained Harry Gardner, our Corporate Account Executive."
“Throughout the month of May we’re asking people to get sponsored to give up something, participate in a challenge or perhaps hold a dress down day.”
We have a pack of ideas to help get people started – from holding an office Olympics to being a film star for the day.
“Joining in with May Mayhem will make a real difference to those who are at risk from meningitis and those whose lives have already been changed forever because of it,” Harry added.
One organisation taking part is specialist law firm Leigh Day, based in London and Manchester.
Know how devastating meningitis can be
Caroline Griffin, Marketing Manager at the firm, said: “We are taking part in May Mayhem for Meningitis Now as we know from our clients how devastating meningitis can be. It can affect anyone, of any age, at any time and catching it early can make all the difference.“
“That is why raising awareness is so crucial, so that more people can recognise the signs and symptoms early to avoid serious injury and preventing deaths from this awful disease. The challenges we have lined up for May Mayhem are an easy fun way to get our firm, and all those we know, to be meningitis aware and to help raise funds for a brilliant charity.”
“This year we have a dress down day, Man vs Food challenge, swear jars, quiz, walk to work days, no social media days … it’s a packed programme!”
Eze does it
Another organisation pleased to be supporting our work through May Mayhem is Eze Talk, the residential and business telecommunications company, based in Crewe.
“Every one of Eze Talk's employees is involved in May Mayhem” the company’s Victoria Horton told us. “We kicked off the activities at the beginning of May when Chris Hughes (Meningitis Now’s regional support officer in the north west) presented to the whole company about the devastating and potentially fatal effects meningitis can have and how important it is to be aware of the signs and symptoms. She also highlighted the vital support work that Meningitis Now offers, should the worst happen.“
“Inspired, we then began fundraising in earnest, including a Beanstick challenge; Baby's day out; Cyclothon (including Fame fancy dress and a personal trainer!); Pub quiz; and Boss Cross.”
Passionate about the cause
“We were introduced to the charity via our connection with Birmingham City FC and were all moved to tears when we were told Liam Doyle's story. Since then, we have heard many, many more accounts of how devastating meningitis is. We are passionate about this cause and this is the company's chosen charity.“
“A few of us within the company have been touched in some way by meningitis. Our Sales Manager's son was taken in with suspected meningitis, as was my young niece over Christmas. It was the longest car journey following the ambulance! Thankfully, they are both okay, but we know many are not so fortunate. A friend of mine also died at school whilst I was doing A-levels - it affected the whole year quite badly.”
Steve Walsh, the company’s MD added: "Meningitis Now is our favoured charity because I have seen first hand the effects of this terrible disease. Furthermore, with new grandchildren, it has brought home to me even more the need for awareness of this disease and to do everything we all possibly can to assist Meningitis Now in their fantastic efforts."
Thanks Steve and everybody – we appreciate your fantastic efforts.
The Beauty Box
But you don’t need to be a big national organisation to support May Mayhem. Katie Thatcher, from The Beauty Box, has also signed up, and will be holding a quiz and curry evening. Her son had viral meningitis at 10 weeks. “We are one of the lucky ones”, she said. “He has a few issues with his immune system but he is now a very happy little 2-year-old.”
“I am keen to raise awareness of this condition because he was misdiagnosed and it nearly cost him his life. Education is so important.”
To find out more and sign up for May Mayhem contact Harry on harryg@meningitisnow.org or visit the May Mayhem page.
