Little Bray football fundraiser in memory of local lad

A charity football match is taking place between Little Bray Community Centre and An Garda Siochana on Wednesday, 25^th October, at 4pm in the Carlisle Grounds.

This second annual football fundraiser is once again being held in memory of 15 year old Keelan O’Connor who tragically lost his life to Meningococcal B meningitis (MenB) in September 2015.

There will be a bucket collection and raffle at the game to raise much needed funds for Meningitis Research Foundation and Temple Street Children’s Hospital so the local community is invited to attend on the day and support this worthy cause.

There are on average 200 cases of bacterial meningitis and septicaemia- the blood poisoning form of the disease in Ireland every year. Sadly one in ten of those people who contract the disease will die and one in three survivors will be left with life changing after effects as severe as amputations, brain damage or deafness.

Meningitis Research Foundation funds research into the prevention, detection and treatment of meningitis and septicaemia and raises awareness of the diseases amongst both the general public and health professionals. The charity also supports families affected and provides a freefone helpline service.

Caroline Krieger, Medical Information Officer for Meningitis Research Foundation said: “As a Non-Government funded organisation, Meningitis Research Foundation relies on the generosity of local communities and fundraising events and donations to continue its vital work so we are extremely grateful to the Community Centre and Gardaí for organising this fundraiser in Keelan’s memory.”
 
Media contacts:
For further information please contact the Community Centre or Caroline Krieger, Medical Information Officer of Meningitis Research Foundation, on: 01 819 6931/ caroline@meningitis-ireland.org

Notes to editors:

• Since December 2016 all babies born on or after 1^st October 2016 are routinely vaccinated against Meningococcal B (MenB) at 2, 4 and 12 months, as part of the Primary Childhood Immunisation Schedule. However no catch up campaign was introduced for older children
• There are currently 19 projects in MRF’s active research programme. Since the charity was founded in 1989, we have awarded 161 research grants. The total value of our investment in vital scientific research is over €24.7 million
• MRF also supports those already affected with a telephone helpline, home visits and befriending. Our Freefone helpline – 1800 41 33 44 – provides information to the general public and those affected by the disease.
• Donations can be made online but people can also donate €2 from their mobile phone by texting MenB to 50300. Texts cost €2. Meningitis Research Foundation will receive a minimum of €1.63. Service provider: LIKECHARITY. Helpline: 076 6805278