13
Jan
Dad to tackle Sahara trek in memory of daughter who died of meningitis
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The father of a girl who died of bacterial meningitis is to take on a mammoth trek across the Sahara Desert in her memory.
Former Harrogate school pupil Mark Normington, father of Leila Normington, will travel to Morrocco in March to begin the challenge alongside other parents who have lost children to the disease.
Less than three years into her life, Leila got pneumonia in January 2023. Mark, 48, said she was unwell “on and off” from then on, including contracting two different strains of bacterial meningitis within two weeks.
Leila, who was also deaf, was initially treated on the Woodlands Ward at Harrogate District Hospital, where Mark said she was "adored by the staff who cared for her".
Leila was later transferred to Leeds General Infirmary, before she died at Martin House Children’s Hospice in July 2023.
But Mark, who now lives in Wetherby, has made it his mission to keep Leila’s memory alive and raise awareness of meningitis.
He said:
Her passing has left a hole in the hearts of everyone who loved her, but her story continues to inspire action.
By sharing Leila’s journey, we hope to raise awareness of meningitis, encourage early recognition of symptoms and remind people to trust their instincts when it comes to their health and the health of their loved ones.
We also aim to highlight the importance of follow-up care for children and adults who remain unwell after treatment.
Mark and Leila.
After flying to Marrakech, Mark will make the nine-hour drive to a starting point at the edge of the Sahara Desert.
From there, he and 30 others will tackle the 50km trek over a five-day period.
Mark expects temperatures to reach 35 degrees during the day and plummet to freezing at night.
He told the Stray Ferret:
As challenging as this trek will be, it is nothing compared to the emotional journey of grief, loss and mental health struggles I have faced over the past two years since Leila’s passing.
I will be joined by 30 other parents who, like me, have lost a loved one to meningitis. We share a bond forged through love and loss.
Leila in the rainbow tunnel at Harrogate Hospital.
The trek, which is also in aid of Meningitis Now, will be led by local Berbers who will carry food and water on camels.
Mark said he will carry his own rucksack containing essentials – including a three-litre water bladder – such as snacks, a first aid kit, a power bank and warm clothing.
The trekkers will camp “under the stars” each night, he added.
Mark will start the trek on March 5 and expects to complete it by March 10.
He said it will be “completely out of my comfort zone” but wants to ensure Leila’s memory is kept alive and vital funds and awareness can be raised.
Mark has already raised more than £4,000 of his £5,000 target. You can donate to the fundraiser by clicking here.
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