Family focus on Lucas' legacy on World Meningitis Day

Launch website with charity to follow in his memory

We're being urged to be aware of the possible signs of meningitis, on World Meningitis Day.

It's an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord which, if not treated quickly, can be deadly.

There are an estimated 8,000 cases in the UK each year.

Dr Tom Nutt is from the charity Meningitis Now, and says it can be hard to spot as symptoms vary depending on age group:

You can find the full interview with Dr Nutt HERE.

Here on the Isle of Man, a grieving father says he's determined to carry on his son's legacy. 

Island resident Lucas Martin was just 21 when he died suddenly in September after contracting meningitis.

He has been described as a 'genuinely lovely person' and 'an amazing lad and friend to so many'.

Today, on World Meningitis Day, his father Brett is signposting people to know the signs and symptoms, describing it as an 'invisible killer'.

He told Manx Radio the family is determined to celebrate his life:

The family has launched a website, LookyMartin.com, which tells readers a bit more about Lucas, and has links to charities including Meningitis Now, and Organ Donation IOM.

Lucas was a donor, with his organs going on to help people across the UK.

The family are ultimately going to set up a charity in Lucas' name, to help young people across the Isle of Man.

They're asking people to "give it LOADS" in his memory - to move through life with more Love, Optimism, Ambition, Determination and Selflessness - saying that's how Lucas conducted himself through his 21 years.

They say: "Our hope is that you will read about him and embrace his positive values or reinforce your own for the benefit of society. After all, how much better this world would be if more people gave it LOADS!"

You can find the full interview with Brett Martin here.