29th June 2006 – for immediate release
Press release
Meningitis Trust launches new educational DVD – Meningitis Matters
Children in New Zealand continue to remain at risk of contracting life threatening forms of meningitis.
Awareness and vigilance of this disease remains vital – we cannot afford to be complacent. The fight must still
continue.
Fiona Colbert Meningitis Trust General Manager has said -The Ministry of Health Meningococcal MeNZB ™ campaign has
demonstrated a great success in combating the epidemic of meningococcal B in our community and we have been privileged
to have supported this initiative. However there are other equally devastating forms of meningitis still killing our
most vulnerable people.
‘Meningitis Matters’ which is proudly presented by Kevin Milne [Fair Go and Meningitis Trust Patron and David Wikaira –
Paul [ex Shortland Street, Dancing with the Stars], has been developed together with the support of the NZ community who
have contributed their experiences of this destructive disease.
‘Meningitis Matters’ has an education and support component, together with being tailored specifically for either
parents or adolescents and young adults.
Pam Cleverley , mother of Charlotte “We were proud to be able to share our experience of meningitis and the support we
have received from the Meningitis Trust knowing that it may help another family or save a precious life ‘
DVD – ‘Meningitis Matters’ is unique as its deals the issues of meningitis in all its forms and explains how it is
transmitted, how it can be prevented and our own community responsibility. It also looks at the impact of meningitis on
the individuals and families to give a greater understanding to those who care for the sufferers of meningitis or live
and or work with those who have survived meningitis.
Almost certainly thousands in our community are living with the after effects of these devastating infections. Some with
the emotional burden of bereavement, some have lost there limbs and endured hours of surgery. Others have daily battles
with emotional issues, behavioural issues, deafness, epilepsy and loss of vision.
We endeavor to support these people through provision of both practical and emotional support we do this by offering a
number of services which include a 24 hour helpline, financial support grants, face for face counselling, one to one
contact and the awareness and education of this disease in all communities through provision of specifically tailored
literature in eleven languages.
ENDS