MRC Goes to Queen’s Park for World Meningitis Day 2015

Ontario Legislature Re-Introduces Meningitis Awareness Day Act

Meningitis Relief Canada (MRC) was at Queen’s Park on April 22nd to mark World Meningitis Day (April 24) and raise awareness of this devastating and life-threatening disease.
MPPs wore burgundy carnations in the Legislature to mark World Meningitis Day and MPPS Indira Naidoo-Harris, John Yakabuski and Jagmeet Singh spoke in support of a private members bill to officially declare April 24 as World Meningitis Day in Ontario. MRC also met with government officials during the day to discuss the importance of meningitis public health education, prevention and support for families.
In the afternoon, MRC hosted a successful reception attended by Ontario MPPs from all parties. Furakh Mir, MRC founder and president spoke about the risks of Meningitis and their continued support for education and awareness of the disease. “Meningitis is a disease that can affect anyone, anywhere and at any time. Within hours it can lead to lifelong disability or death” said Furakh Mir “No child should suffer devastation on account of this disease, when we can take preventative measures through education – by knowing the signs and symptoms and seeking urgent medical attention and through immunization,” Mir added.

Meningitis is an inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord, and Bacterial Meningitis often afflicts young children. It appears suddenly, and its symptoms can be mistaken for the flu. Without diagnosis and proper treatment it can result in death or long-term disability.
“I’m proud to be a co-sponsor of the Meningitis Awareness Day Act. Meningitis is a truly devastating disease that has personally impacted the lives of so many people in Ontario. Raising public awareness and focusing our resources to combat this deadly disease will help us to protect residents and diminish future suffering,”said Indira Naidoo-Harris, MPP Halton

“Early detection and recognizing the signs and symptoms are key with Meningitis. It’s so important that we’re better informed and more aware of the dangers and that’s why I strongly support recognizing April 24 as World Meningitis Day in Ontario,” said Jagmeet Singh, MPP Bramalea-Gore-Malton

MRC’s mission is to raise awareness and promote education among the public and healthcare professionals to prevent death and disability from meningitis. The charity is dedicated to supporting individuals and families who have been afflicted by the disease with counselling, financial aid and other services. To date MRC has assisted dozens of families with financial support for hospital expenses, respite care, medical equipment, therapy and funeral expenses.