One of the most frightening diseases that can take hold, particularly of younger people, meningitis has struck in Cork.
20-yr-old Grainne O’Donnell from Cahir, Co. Tipperary has sadly passed away in Cork University Hospital yesterday after she contracted meningitis.
Tributes have poured in on Facebook for the young woman from her friends and fellow students:
Christopher English posted: “You always showed me nothing but kindness and unconditional love, you were a credit to your friends and your family and what everyone should aspire to be.
“When someone you love become’s a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.
“I will be forever grateful to have known you…Rest in Peace.”
Another friend, Anna Peters, said: “To the sweetest girl I’ve ever met, I hope you rest in peace.
“You were the best person in every way, always making me laugh and smile.
“You always gave the most amazing advice and showed people how to really live by enjoying the now and living in the moment and I will always love you for that.”
A spokeswoman for The Meningitis Research Foundation told the Irish Mirror:
“We would like to offer our sincere condolences to her family and friends; our thoughts are with them at this extremely difficult time.
“Meningitis is the inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord. It shares many of the symptoms of other, more common, everyday illnesses such as the flu or even a hangover.
“As a result it is vital that people are able to recognise the signs and symptoms of the disease, particularly the symptoms that are more unique to meningitis.
“Because Meningitis develops so quickly it can be a particularly devastating disease for those affected.
“It can also have a resounding effect on the surrounding community.”
Grainne’s funeral mass will be on Sunday in St Mary’s Church in Cahir, followed by burial afterwards in the adjourning cemetery to the church. RIP.
Anyone who wants to contact the Meningitis Research Foundation can do so on 01 819 6931 or freephone 1800 41 33 44.