Growing up I was a very happy child. I had just started pre-school and at the age of 4 was rushed into the local A&E department with meningitis meningococcal septicaemia.
From my parents’ recollection, I started the day feeling unwell and a slight fever however this was expected in the summer’s heat unique to the north west of England. A rash then appeared, however, I became suddenly unconscious and failed to respond.
I was rushed into hospital where it was touch and go for any brain function. After the months in hospital and well wishes of family and friends I regained consciousness and managed to pass water showing I was on the road to recovery.
Following nurses’ visits at home and an IV drip I was feeling a lot better learning to walk, talk, write all from the beginning.
I am now 17 years old and feel I should express my current situation to make you aware of unknown results of this disease.
At the age of 8 I was diagnosed with dyspraxia this affected my co-ordination and balance due to my ‘clumsiness’. Now at 17 I am being assessed for arthritis due to joint pain this affects my mobility greatly.
Two years ago I was going through a hard point in my life of mocks however this was heightened due to lack of concentration and outbursts of emotions. As this worsened I was under CAMHS and later diagnosed with ADHD to which I’m now on medication and passed all my GCSEs with 1 a* 3bs and 3cs - something I wouldn’t have done without help.