Fundraising for Graham

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Family and friends raise donations in memory of late student, Graham Ward

Friends and family of the late Graham Ward will be running a half marathon this November, to mark five years since his passing and raise donations for the Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF), a charity close to all their hearts.

Graham was a student at Bath Spa University on the BA Business and Management course who tragically passed away in November 2019, age 20, after contracting a rare strain of meningitis, despite being vaccinated.

Graham is remembered by those who knew him as perpetually kind, thoughtful, whip-smart, and witty to the core. Nicknamed ‘The Smiler’ as a child, his infectious laugh and reputation for always having a grin on his face was well-earned.

While at University, Graham demonstrated what those who were lucky enough to love him already knew - he was ambitious, hardworking, and brought out the very best in the people around him. 

Described by his sister as ‘the most selfless person’ she knew, Graham’s kindness knew no bounds. At age 20 he had already registered as an organ donor. Twice. His compassion saved the lives of six people, giving the gift of life even after he had passed away.  

Remembering her brother, Graham’s sister and Bath Spa University BA Drama graduate, Carina Ward, said: 

“We couldn’t be prouder of him. Having Graham as my brother was like having a best friend who I got the honour of knowing my whole life.”

On 10 November, Carina will be joined by 34 of Graham’s loved ones, including six BSU graduates, for the Victoria Park Half Marathon in London. 

Running in aid of the MRF, an international charity dedicated to combating meningitis and septicaemia, this isn’t the first time Carina has laced up her running shoes for the Foundation.  

A few years ago, Carina, alongside over 40 others, raised more than £21,000 for the charity. Now, she has set a target of £4,500 and invited those who are able to donate through her JustGiving page.  

The Foundation envisions a world free from meningitis and septicaemia, focusing on effective vaccinations, optimal diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive support for affected individuals and families. Through awareness campaigns and collaboration with health leaders, they strive to ensure those in need never face these challenges alone.

Speaking about the upcoming race, Carina said: 

“Despite running (...with a little walking) this distance before, it's amazing how quickly you can lose it. So, I'm back at square one. However, despite not being a natural runner, knowing I'm doing this for Graham makes it all worthwhile.”

She continued: 

“It’s amazing seeing so many people support our fundraiser, it means a lot to the charity and goes a long way. It’s through research that we can stop what happened to Graham from happening to anyone else.”

Meningococcal disease can develop suddenly, usually as meningitis or septicaemia, and it’s imperative that you are able to spot the signs. In cases of meningococcal disease, the University has an essential action plan in place, informed by the UK Government Guide and led by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The University’s dedicated email should be used to alert key teams at meningitisalert@bathspa.ac.uk.