Meningitis survivor signs up for run

Meningitis survivor Stephanie McIntyre has signed up for the Great North Run to raise funds for the charity that supported her.

As she already runs a toddler group, looks after her own five children, volunteers for St John Ambulance and is studying to become a paramedic, it’s hard to see how the Washington resident will find time to train for the half-marathon.

But the 31-yearold says she loves a challenge and was inspired to take part after seeing online posts from people who did the race last year for Meningitis Now.

“Everyone was filled with pride on completion and stated how amazing it is to participate,” she said.

Stephanie contracted viral meningitis in July 2018, although it took a full six days of tests before she was finally diagnosed.

But it was the after-effects of the disease that really impacted on her, with issues such as intense headaches and significant pain in her lower back. She ended up contacting Meningitis Now.

She said: “Within a few weeks a member of the team came out to see me and it was such a relief to finally have someone to talk to, someone who could understand my experience and my after-effects.” As for the Great North Run, Stephanie said: “I was really excited upon booking, although I’m a bit anxious about the training.

“I’m hoping that I can – with ample amount of training – complete the run within three hours.”

To make a donation to her fund, go to uk.virginmoneygiving.com and type Stephanie McIntyre in the search box.