We at the Meningitis Trust, were saddened to hear about the Wiltshire couple who jumped to their deaths because they were left devastated by the death of their son, who lost his life to meningitis.

We are constantly reminded how devastating meningitis can be, changing people’s lives in an instant.

Survivors can face a future with devastating after-effects, families can face a future without a loved-one. Every day we work with people who are struggling to cope with the impact of meningitis.

We see firsthand the trauma that the disease can cause to an individual, their family and even a whole community.

We are here to offer support and information to anyone affected by the disease and we don’t want people to suffer in silence.

For many, the suddenness of the disease and the speed with which it develops is both shocking and overwhelming, with families left feeling stunned and traumatised, sometimes in a matter of hours.

We offer a free, confidential helpline, 0800 028 18 28, which is available 24-hours a day and manned by specially trained nurses.

It is also the gateway to our free professional support services – providing anyone affected by the disease with support when they need it, for as long as they need it.

We would urge anyone who has been affected by meningitis to get in touch – please don’t suffer in silence.

Sue Davie, Chief Executive, Meningitis Trust.