The devastated family of a bright first-year university student are sharing their unimaginable loss to prevent other tragedies, after their daughter died from a rapid and aggressive form of bacterial meningitis.
Megan Rees, a vibrant 18-year-old from Bridgend, South Wales, had just begun her studies at the University of South Wales when she fell ill. What initially seemed like a common bout of freshers' flu quickly escalated into a life-threatening crisis.
A Mother's Unshakeable Fear
Her mother, Nicola Lugg, recalls the terrifying speed of her daughter's decline. "It started with a headache and a temperature, things you'd associate with a bug," she shared. "But within hours, she was covered in a rash that didn't fade under a glass. We knew it was serious."
Despite being rushed to University Hospital Wales in Cardiff, Megan's condition deteriorated rapidly. She suffered two cardiac arrests and tragically passed away on October 19th.
The Silent Danger for Students
Meningitis is particularly dangerous for university students living in halls of residence. The close-quarter living conditions can facilitate the spread of the bacteria that cause meningococcal disease.
Key symptoms everyone must know include:
- A high fever with cold hands and feet
- Severe headache
- Vomiting and muscle pain
- A distinctive rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass
- Stiff neck, dislike of bright lights, and confusion
A Legacy of Awareness
Megan's family are now channelling their grief into action, working with charities like Meningitis Now to raise awareness. They are urging all students to ensure they have received the MenACWY vaccine, which is routinely offered to teenagers in school.
"We don't want any other family to go through this pain," Nicola said. "Please, be aware of the symptoms. Don't hesitate. Trust your instincts and seek medical help immediately."
Their powerful message serves as a critical health alert for the new academic year, emphasising that meningitis can kill in under 24 hours.
