SIR – I was saddened to read in your recent article (T&A, November 16) that Connor Lancaster, 15, of Wibsey, has been diagnosed with terminal cancer and suffers illness and disabilities after contracting meningitis aged two.

Everyone at Meningitis Now, formed after Meningitis UK and Meningitis Trust merged this year, was touched that Connor has a wish list, which includes meeting celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal, that people are helping him to fulfil.

Meningitis can strike with incredible speed and the symptoms are notoriously difficult to detect, often being confused with flu.

Our focus is to fund the development of vaccines and other methods of preventing this devastating disease and to provide support for those fighting back.

We also distribute a range of awareness materials highlighting the common symptoms and the need to act quickly, which can mean the difference between life and death.

We have community support officers in the area, ready to help anyone touched by the disease.

If anyone would like a free symptoms information pack, including wallet-sized symptoms cards or support, call our 24-hour freephone helpline on 0808 8010388 or visit MeningitisNow.org.

Sue Davie, Chief Executive, Meningitis Now, Stroud, Gloucestershire