Fitness fundraiser for tragic meningitis victim Tom
A charity Zumbathon is being held by the auntie of a schoolboy who tragically died of meningitis on his 13th birthday.
Thirteen-year-old Thomas Smith from Hednesford was on holiday with his family in Wales when he fell ill in May last year. He was taken to hospital with the tell-tale signs of meningitis and later died.
His auntie, Jayne Gregory, aged 46, from Cannock, has organised the fundraiser dubbed ZumbaTOM.
She said: "It'll be a fun and emotional day to remember Thomas and chance to raise awareness and funds to fight the awful disease."
ZumbaTOM is taking place at Chase Leisure Centre in Cannock on Saturday (6). Four classes will be held from midday to 4pm.
All proceeds raised will go the charity Meningitis Now.
She added: "People can come to one or all four sessions for just £5. It's less about getting fit and more about having fun to fundraise for Meningitis Now."
She is also encouraging people to turn up to the ZumbaTOM in fancy dress.
Thomas was nicknamed Ronnie for his Ronaldo-style soccer skills and dreamed of playing for Aston Villa and England.
The popular Chasetown Scholars and Kingsmead Technology College player had six meningitis signs including a headache and stiff neck, but initially received paracetamol instead of antibiotics.
The disease had progressed and he suffered a seizure so was rushed to the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, where he died.
Meningitis Now founder Steve Dayman MBE said: "What happened to Thomas sadly illustrates that meningitis can strike swiftly, often with flu-like symptoms.
"It's touching that his family are united to beat the dreaded disease in Thomas' name.
"Every penny raised will help us fight meningitis on all fronts – fund preventative research, raise awareness and support people."
To sign up for ZumbaTOM call 01543 504065.
