Galway boutique opens doors in aid of Meningitis Trust

A TERRIFYING family experience of the life-threatening disease meningitis prompted an Oranmore lady to organise a fashion show with a difference in aid of the Meningitis Trust. Orla Grealy, proprietor of Sorelle Boutique, held a Christmas Open Night to raise funds for the charity after her family's recent experience of meningitis. Orla also held a raffle with spot prizes kindly donated by local businesses in Oranmore and Clarinbridge, and is also selling Christmas cards to raise funds for the Meningitis Trust, Ireland's meningitis support organisation. 'My little nephew Harry got ill very suddenly a few weeks ago, and when we rushed him to hospital, it was discovered that he had meningitis,' Orla told The Tuam Herald. 'He was just four months old and, for a while, we didn't know whether he would make it or not. It was terrifying to see him lying there so ill. 'Thankfully, because we got help quickly, Harry got the treatment he needed, and is now making a good recovery. But it brought home to me and all his family just how devastating meningitis can be. This will be a very special Christmas for us all, as we know how lucky we were.' Ger Mills, Development Officer with the Meningitis Trust said: 'We are very grateful to Orla for her decision to hold this event. I would encourage as many people as possible to come and view her wonderful selection of clothes, and pick up a free â€ËœSigns and Symptoms' card and perhaps take part in the raffle in aid of the Trust.' The Meningitis Trust supports anyone affected by this life-changing disease through its free professional aftercare and support services. These include a 24-hour helpline (1800-523196), staffed by nurses, counselling, bereavement support and home visits. The Trust also distributes millions of leaflets, posters, symptoms cards, information sheets and other materials which raise awareness of meningitis.