Meningitis in your words

Conor Heaviside's story

  • Location: UK
  • Categories: Bacterial meningitis
  • Age: Baby 0-1
  • Relationship: Parent
  • Outcome: Full recovery
  • After effects: Scarring - skin damage
Conor Heaviside
Conor Heaviside - Meningitis in your words

My son contracted bacterial meningitis in January 1996 when he was nine months old. He was rushed to hospital and placed in an induced coma for two weeks. 
 

This was the most horrific time of my life, and we were given the devastating news that he may not survive. We were told that if he did survive, they may have to amputate. 
 

My son obviously cannot remember anything about it, but it feels like yesterday to me, and it still brings tears to my eyes when I think about what we all went through. 
 

Thankfully, my gorgeous son fought back and pulled through with no after effects apart from scarring to his eye. He is now the proud father father to his own son, Olly (pictured above).
 

We were so, so lucky, and I'm amazed and humbled when I read the other stories of those that have overcome this devastating, life-changing illness and have gone on to achieve great things. You are all amazing. 

It was the most horrific time of my life but thankfully my gorgeous son fought back. He is now happy, healthy and a proud father to his own little boy.

Michelle Cairns
October 2024

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