A MAN from Wrexham who overcame meningitis is set to run the London Marathon in aid of a charity close to his heart. 

Drew Darlington was diagnosed with meningococcal meningitis in 2016 while studying for his GCSEs. 

After spending two weeks in a hospital bed he was discharged, but it took him a lot longer to get back to full health. 

Further investigations took place after being discharged and Drew's meningitis resulted from a rare condition called Properdin Deficiency, which makes him more susceptible to further meningitis episodes. 

He now takes daily antibiotics to mitigate the risk of the condition. 

A year before Drew's diagnosis, his brother Saul was diagnosed with the same immune deficiency and follows the same antibiotic regime as his brother. 

Now, Drew is set to run the London Marathon in April 2025 to raise money for the Meningitis Research Foundation. 

Drew said: "While studying for my GCSEs at Ysgol Morgan Llwyd, I visited the doctor with a sore throat and high temperature.

"During the examination, the Doctor noticed petechiae (tiny red or purple spots) in the roof of my mouth. Soon after, a full-body rash developed, and I was diagnosed with meningococcal meningitis.

"I was immediately rushed to Wrexham Maelor Hospital by ambulance. Stabilised in A&E, then admitted to the children’s ward. For two weeks, I remained bed-bound and experienced extreme fatigue. 

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"Further investigations revealed that my meningitis resulted from a complement deficiency known as Properdin Deficiency. This rare condition puts me at a higher risk of repeated episodes of meningitis. 

Interestingly, my brother Saul faced a similar diagnosis in 2015, approximately a year before my own. We both consider ourselves fortunate to have made full recoveries, and we remain deeply grateful for the exceptional medical care and support we received.

"Given our experiences, I recognize the importance of prompt medical attention and increased public awareness. That’s why I am honoured to run the 2025 London Marathon in support of the Meningitis Research Foundation. By participating, I hope to raise awareness and contribute to future prevention and management of this disease."