A little toddle goes a long way…

Rebecca Dodd is the North West and North East Community Fundraiser for the Meningitis Trust. She needs to spread her important message wide and far please help her. Find her on Twitter and Facebook she’s back to tell us all about Toddle Waddle…

Let me tell you a little bit about Toddle Waddles.

Thirteen years ago The Meningitis Trust set up an event called Toddle Waddle aimed at nurseries and playgroups looking after under 5’s. They wanted to engage with families who had little ones to raise awareness of meningitis, and the dangers of the disease if you didn’t know the signs and symptoms to look out for, as babies, toddlers and young children under five are the most at risk group for meningitis. Toddle Waddle was born, along with Monty the duck and it became a huge success. Since then Toddle Waddle has gone from strength to strength, not only raising the vital funds the Meningitis Trust needs to continue the work it does but also raising awareness of meningitis for many families who now know what to look out for.

Toddle Waddle couldn’t be simpler really; all you need to do is request a pack and bobs your uncle!

Our specially designed pack comes with posters, Monty hats, stickers, sponsor forms and certificates. On top of that, you have Monty’s Action Zone on our website as well with more fun activities to do like colouring competitions; make your own Monty’s feet and the Monty song to name a few. The fun is endless really, especially when your little ones are involved!

All you need to add is some crayons, glitter, feathers (if you have them) and a little waddling and your there. Why not take your group of little ones around the local park, or just a little trip out side around the nursery garden…failing that then Monty likes a little wiggle and a waddle inside as well. You don’t need much space to hold a Toddle Waddle as the fun will find you.

In doing this little sponsored waddle for one day in your busy calendar, you could change a family’s life forever. Take little Louie for example. He contracted meningitis when he was just a baby last January, spending several weeks in hospital, losing both legs below the knee and several fingers on his left hand. With support and a financial grant from the Meningitis Trust the family were able to stay strong while Louie was in hospital and are now rebuilding their lives after this dreadful disease has touched their family. With your help we can continue to support families like Louie’s through this scary disease, and into the future.

It’s not just about helping those who have been affected; it’s about trying to prevent such outcomes as well. Louie’s mum knew what to look out for, and rushed him to hospital very quickly. But he still was given a 50% chance of surviving.

Would you know the signs and symptoms to look out for? It’s not just a rash which should tell you your little one is poorly, especially as this often develops later down the line if at all. Have a look at our website if you want to check the signs, or download our free smart phone app. Holding a Toddle Waddle is a great way for us to reach lots of families as the pack also includes our signs and symptoms cards for the children to take home for mummy and daddy.

So, does your little one go to nursery or do you know someone who does? Can you help us spread the word raising vital awareness and the funds we need to help all those who have been affected by meningitis? If you would like more information about holding a Toddle Waddle or to register for a pack then please email events@meningitis-trust.org or call 0845 120 4530.

Rebecca Dodd Up until recently had always worked in the hospitality industry, and filled her spare time with fundraising for various charities. A passionate person with a love of spending time with family and friends. Along side helping the supporters of the Trust, she enjoys baking, sewing and reading. They may sound like typical hobbies, but she isn’t your typical 20 something! ‘Believe and Achieve’ is something she feels is at the heart of her everyday life.