Beth's in the saddle for a great cause

A young woman left fighting for her life as a baby is to tackle a gruelling cycle challenge to raise funds for the charity which helped her family through the ordeal.
Beth Leedham will cycle 70 miles to raise money for Meningitis NowBeth Leedham will cycle 70 miles to raise money for Meningitis Now
Beth Leedham will cycle 70 miles to raise money for Meningitis Now

Beth Leedham, 17, of Charnock Close, Halifax, was just two years old when she was given a 50-50 chance of survival after conctracting bacterial meningitis.

The inspirational Greenhead College student fortunately pulled through and now wants to raise as much as she can for the Meningitis Now charity.

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She said: “It’s a charity which is really close to my heart.

“They really did support my family so much at the time.

“I love making a big difference and I love taking part in fundraising to raise money and change people’s lives.

“I’m so lucky I survived and and I want to make the most out of every moment.”

Beth embarked on a 50-mile bike ride when she was 12 and managed to raise £600 for the charity, but five years on she is raring for a fresh challenge.

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She added: “I want to challenge myself a little bit more, while hopefully raising more money for this charity which is saving lives and supporting families.”

Beth will saddle up in August to undertake a 70-mile bike ride from York to the River Humber and back in one day. Her dad Ian, 52, will join her on the ride.

The determined teenager has set herself a target of £400, but has already surpassed that as well wishers continue to donate.

Proud mum Lynne, 50, said: “She is amazing, she just packs so much into her life as she is aware that she may have lost her life and what could have happened - the complications with meningitis can be horrendous.”

To help Beth raise as much money as possible for the charity, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/bethanyleedham.

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