Meningitis claims the life of ‘loving’ teen
Family are ‘numb with shock’
TRIBUTES have been paid to a ‘vivacious, loving girl’ following her death from meningitis aged 16.
Imogen Boswell died on December 28.
Her school, Reddish Vale High, Stockport, opened especially for pupils to sign a book of condolence to ‘Immy’.
Her death has devastated staff and students, who have not yet returned following the Christmas and New Year holidays.
Imogen’s family and friends have set up an appeal to raise money for meningitis research in her memory.
A relative said: “We are all still numb with shock and are heartbroken at the loss of our lovely Immy.
“It seems incredibly cruel that meningitis should visit and steal her away like this at just 16.
“A stunningly beautiful girl both inside and out, I am not sure how we will find our way through this darkness.
“Please remember us in your prayers - especially Imogen’s mum and dad, Sally and Steven, and her stepmum Seana.”
More than 100 messages have been left on the school’s social media page, Stacey Brown posted: “Such sad news. My heart hurts for all her family and friends. [A] lovely young lady always polite and respectful. RIP Imogen xx.”
Phoebe Moonie said: “You will be endlessly missed Immy.
“We will never forget how much joy you shared with us all. Rest in peace beautiful angel.”
A JustGiving page has been set up on behalf of Imogen’s parents and family to help the fight against meningitis. e research of preventing and treating meningitis.
With an initial target of £500, almost £1,500 has been donated so far.
A post with the page reads: “Immy sadly passed away on Thursday, 28 December 2023 from meningitis at the age of 16.
“Whilst unfortunately there was nothing more that could have been done to help Immy, her mum Sally has asked that donations can be made to the Meningitis Research Foundation, who aim to defeat meningitis and septicaemia, to help prevent this happening to any other families.
“For those who knew Immy, she was a vivacious, loving girl, who lit the room up with her bright personality.
“Even though her life was only short, she made every second count.
“From assembling her own motorbike; getting tattoos and her septum pierced without her mum’s knowledge; to escapades with her friends; Immy kept her family on their toes!
“She was the kindest, most caring girl; she would help anyone in need, and will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Rest in peace beautiful girl.”
Reddish Vale headteacher Linda Hanson said in a message to parents: “I am devastated to share the tragic news that one of our much loved pupils, Imogen Boswell, sadly passed away over the Christmas period.
“Understandably this is very upsetting for our whole community. The school will be open on Friday 5th January, from 10am-11am for those that wish to sign a book of condolence or wish to talk to someone, this support will remain open on return to school.
“Should you require any immediate support please do contact us directly.”