Mum Susan Hall tells of son's fight against meningitis

Dec 8 2009 by Mieka Smiles, The Journal

When Susan Hall’s young son was struck down with the potentially fatal meningitis bug she was forced to contemplate planning his funeral. The hairdresser is now aiming to use pedal power to help other families who find themselves in a similar position. MIEKA SMILES reports

Marshall is now 18 and lives with Susan, 43, Harry, 46, and his sister Amelia, 17, in Houghton-le-Spring, Tyne & Wear.

A barber for the family business, he has only a sketchy recollection of the drama.

He said: “I got in from school and we were having fish and chips for tea.

“All I can remember is lying on the settee and mum putting me into her bed. Then there are flashes of being in an ambulance and waking up in hospital.”

After Marshall’s recovery, Susan and Harry made a promise to raise money for charities that carry out research into the disease.

And now the perfect opportunity to do that has presented itself in the form of a six-day cycle ride.

Susan will be cycling for around 400 miles from Vietnam to Cambodia, taking in the sights and sounds along the way.

The heat will be the biggest challenge of trip, with searing temperatures to contend with every day.

But Susan believes that raising vital funds for Meningitis UK by taking part in next month’s event will be well worth the effort.

“After what happened to Marshall we always said that we were going to raise money for meningitis research, but we have been so wrapped up with the kids growing up and the business,” she said.

“When the bike ride came about I thought it was a good chance to do something for meningitis.

“There was another baby who died from the disease recently and it just brought that awareness back.

“We cycle every day for six days, stopping for food, water and rest. There will also be a little bit of sightseeing.

“I have never been that far away from home, but it will be really exciting.”

Susan has been preparing for the trip by heading out on her bike at home to maintain her fitness level.

“I’m out on my bike once a week at the moment and I do a bit of running anyway.

“I think the hardest thing that I’m going to have to put up with is the heat as it’s going to be about 30 degrees Celsius.

“But I can’t wait!”

To support Susan on her journey visit http://www.justgiving.com/susan-hall

Fundraiser

Reds Hair & Beauty Sunderland city centre salon is holding a fundraiser this evening, with all proceeds going to Meningitis UK. The event will start at 7pm with a drinks reception. There will be hair and make-up demonstrations, a fashion show with Debenhams and Anh Mao Couture, giveaways, a raffle and offers on Christmas promotion packs. Guests can pay £5 on the door.