BEING a single parent-of-one and a carer for her mum, when Doreen Boyes contracted viral meningitis in March last year, her world was blown apart.

Life became very difficult as she was rendered bed-bound with the disease and was trying to battle with meningitis while continue her normal life.

She knew very little about meningitis, how it was contracted, its future symptoms and the after effects.

Confused, Doreen, from Hatfield, turned to The Meningitis Trust.

“It was a huge shock at the time,” she said. “My son was still at playgroup so it was really difficult.

“I’m still feeling the after affects now like the headaches and other things, so I just take each day as it comes.

“While I was ill though the charity was excellent, providing the help, support and information we needed, as well as providing a 24-hour helpline, manned by nurses.

“I’ve been incredibly lucky, and now I’m 98 per cent better,” she said.

So much better that Doreen is not only living a normal life now, but she is also taking on a challenge that almost anyone, no matter their condition, would find daunting.

For the Stockbreach Road woman will be hiking the Three Peaks Challenge to raise funds for the charity which backed her in her time of need.

“My reason for taking part is to help families who have been affected by this life-changing disease.

“It’s also a thank you for all the help we as a family have received from The Meningitis Trust.”

Doreen, who has been out walking with her dog for practise, will be taking on the mountains on July 9 to 11 and admits she is nervous about hitting Scafell Pike during the night, but is looking forward to the sights from the top.

Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

The Meningitis Trust helps people with the disease, which can kill in hours, and Doreen is hoping to donate �1,000 to them.