Team takes on Beacons challenge in memory of student who died from meningitis

A team of almost 40 colleagues, family members and friends of Coleg Gwent took on a 10-mile challenge through the Bannau Brycheiniog last weekend in memory of an 18-year-old student who died from meningitis.

The group tackled the Brecon Beacons Horseshoe on Saturday, September 5 to raise awareness of the Meningitis B (MenB) vaccine ahead of the new university term.

The challenge was organised in memory of Megan Draper, whose mum Helen works as an examinations officer at Coleg Gwent.

Megan, who was 18, died from MenB in 2025 just weeks after starting a physiotherapy degree at Bournemouth University.

Her family and the Coleg Gwent team have so far raised more than £5,000 for Meningitis Now, which campaigns for wider MenB vaccination among 15 to 24-year-olds.

Helen, who took part in the walk with her husband Lee, said the challenge was a chance to remember her daughter while helping to raise awareness of MenB.

“It was horrifying when we discovered that a separate MenB vaccination existed, knowing that Meg had already been vaccinated against meningitis A, C, W and Y. If we'd known, we would have paid for a private vaccination in a heartbeat,” she said.

“This walk is so important to us. It’s a chance to remember our amazing daughter, but also to continue raising awareness of MenB.

“If sharing Meg’s story encourages more young people and their families to understand the risks, recognise the importance of vaccination and know what to look out for, then continuing to tell her story is incredibly important to us.”

Katy Cook from Coleg Gwent added: “When Helen and Lee shared their plans for the challenge, I immediately wanted to get involved – and it’s been incredible to see that support grow to nearly 40 colleagues, friends and family all taking part in Meg’s memory.

“The timing is particularly important for us at the college, with many Coleg Gwent learners preparing to start university in coming weeks. Meg’s story is a devastating reminder of why young people and their families need to understand the risks of MenB, and we want to help get that message to as many of them as possible.

“We encourage every student heading off to university this autumn to check whether they’re eligible for the MenB vaccination and, if they are, arrange it before leaving home. It’s a simple step that could help protect them as they begin this next chapter.”

The fundraising challenge comes as a new, time-limited MenB vaccination programme is being rolled out across Wales.

The free vaccine is available to those born between September 1, 2007 and August 31, 2008, as well as eligible under-25s entering higher education or residential further education for the first time this autumn.

Students heading to university are being urged to check their eligibility and arrange vaccination before leaving home.

According to the Welsh Government, more than 17,000 young people have already come forward for their first vaccination, with those eligible now being urged to return for their second dose.

Two doses, at least four weeks apart, are required for the best protection. Eligible young people who move away before receiving their second dose can complete the course after moving to their university town.

To support the fundraising challenge, visit: www.justgiving.com/page/coleg-gwent#timeline-section-marker

For further information about Meningitis B and the work of Meningitis Now, visit: www.meningitisnow.org