Honoring Rebecca Tonry in Sligo
On what would have been Rebecca Tonry’s 21st birthday, family, friends, and members of the Sligo community are coming together for a remembrance walk. This event is more than a tribute; it is a chance to honor Rebecca’s memory while shining a light on meningitis, a disease that claimed her life in 2006.
Purpose and Partnership with ACT for Meningitis
The walk serves a dual purpose: to celebrate Rebecca’s kindness and to support ongoing efforts by ACT for Meningitis, a national charity dedicated to fighting the disease and supporting those affected. ACT for Meningitis works across Ireland to raise awareness, provide family support, and drive life-saving education about meningitis symptoms and rapid response. This community event helps fund vital programs and resources that prevent similar tragedies.
Why Meningitis Awareness Matters
Meningitis can progress rapidly, and early recognition of symptoms like fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, and confusion can be the difference between life and death. Events like the Rebecca Tonry memorial walk help communities learn the warning signs, share practical first-aid steps, and reinforce the importance of seeking urgent medical care. By joining the walk, participants contribute to a larger national effort to reduce meningitis cases and support families facing a diagnosis.
What to Expect on the Day
Participants will gather to honor Rebecca’s memory and demonstrate the power of communities coming together. The event is designed to be inclusive for all ages and abilities, with a route that accommodates families, friends, and supporters. The day will feature heartfelt tributes, opportunities to connect with ACT for Meningitis representatives, and information on meningitis prevention, vaccination, and post-diagnosis support.
How to Get Involved
Everyone is invited to walk in Rebecca’s memory and to help raise awareness about meningitis. For those who cannot attend in person, participation can take the form of sharing information about meningitis, supporting ACT for Meningitis, or making a donation to help fund education and support services. For more information or to sign up or volunteer, please contact 087 092 3892.
Act for Meningitis: A Community-Focused Response
ACT for Meningitis is a nonprofit organization dedicated to education, advocacy, and family support around meningitis. Founded in memory of Aoibhe Carroll, the charity works nationwide to ensure no family faces meningitis alone. Through school programs, awareness campaigns, and direct family support, ACT empowers people to recognize symptoms quickly, seek treatment sooner, and reduce the impact of meningitis on families and communities.
Join the Movement on Rebecca’s Birthday
As Rebecca’s story resonates beyond Sligo, the memorial walk stands as a reminder of the enduring impact of community care and the urgent need for meningitis awareness. By participating, supporters help ensure that families receive the information and resources they need, and that researchers and healthcare providers continue to improve prevention and response strategies.
