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Skydive in memory of Andrew raises £4,000

25.7.11

A SHELDON man who lost his son to meningitis threw himself out of a plane to raise money for vital vaccine research.

Ian Hession, 52, joined a group of 13 friends and family who jumped on Saturday in memory of Andrew who died in December 2010 aged 21 after contracting meningococcal septicaemia.

Andrew, who worked with his dad as a trainee fire alarm engineer, had been very ill with diabetes but was much better when he fell ill with meningitis.

The skydivers hope to raise £4,000 for Meningitis UK's Search 4 a Vaccine Campaign once all the money has been collected.

Andrew's loved ones have become fervent supporters of the charity, having raised a tremendous £8,500 this year.

Sue Hession, 53, Andrew's mum, said: "We took 10 cars full of people to the skydive on Saturday and it was amazing day.

"I am so proud of everyone who took part. We wanted to help Meningitis UK's vaccine campaign and to focus on something positive so that other people don't have to suffer this loss.

"I have also met children who have had limbs amputated and who are living with the effects of meningitis. I have experienced first hand the devastation this disease can cause so this is our way of helping."

As well as supporting the group of skydivers on Saturday, Sue has taken part in the Midland Fun Run, held a funday at Sheldon Heath Social Club and joined walkers on the Meningitis UK's Summer Stroll in June.

Meningitis UK's chief executive Steve Dayman, who lost his son Spencer to the disease, said: "Throwing yourself out of a plane is no mean feat and I would like to congratulate Ian and all the skydivers for their bravery in taking on this daunting and exciting challenge in memory of Andrew.

"I would like to say a big well done to the Hession family and their friends from everyone at Meningitis UK for their fantastic fundraising efforts this year, raising more than £8,000. All the money raised will go towards the Search 4 a Vaccine Campaign to eradicate all forms of meningitis and associated diseases."

The Hessions are now planning a funday at The Harvester pub on Tanhouse Farm Road, Solihull, on Saturday September 3. There will be an animal enclosure for children as well as a gladiator tournament and other games, competitions and entertainment at the all-day event.

To donate to Meningitis UK or for more information about the Search 4 a Vaccine Campaign call 0117 373 7373 or visit www.meningitisuk.org