For the first time, buildings and landmarks across the Isle of Man will light up to mark World Meningitis Day.
Buildings across the British Isles and around the world will be illuminated on October 5 to spread awareness and remember those whose lives have been affected by Meningitis.
It holds special significance as it will honour the memory of Lucas Martin, a 21-year-old from Douglas, who tragically died from bacterial meningitis in September 2023.
Remembering Lucas
Lucas, known as “Looky” to family and friends, was described by his dad Brett as “a force of nature”.
He had recently graduated from Liverpool University with a degree in International Business Studies.
Lucas’ dad, Brett, is keen to help prevent other families from going through a similar experience.
He is helping to raise awareness by sharing his family’s story with Meningitis Research Foundation as part of Meningitis in your words, a digital collection of stories, which is set to become the world’s largest collection of personal meningitis experiences.
Meningitis
Brett said: “After Lucas passed away, life as we knew it ended. He didn’t have the symptoms people often expect, like a rash – just tiredness and a headache.
“I hope that by sharing his story it might help someone else spot the signs of meningitis earlier and get urgent help – that’s why we must keep talking about it, no matter how painful it is.
“Seeing buildings light up across the Isle of Man on World Meningitis Day in his honour means so much to us as a family. It shows that Lucas’ legacy is helping to protect others.”
As part of this, landmarks including The Tower of Refuge, Ramsey Swing Bridge, Douglas City Hall and Douglas City Centre on the Isle of Man will be illuminated to remember Lucas and all those affected by meningitis. Other key landmarks around the world will also light up, including more than 20 across the UK.
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