Boothroyd

Boothroyds’ Brave Julie Turns Tragedy To Triumph

13th November 2009

THE tragedy of losing her 17-year-old son Tom to meningitis has inspired Kenilworth estate agent Julie Wyatt to raise more than £30,000 – so far – for The Meningitis Trust.

Julie, 47, who works for Boothroyd & Co in The Square, has had the full support of her bosses Alison and John Boothroyd for her latest fund-raising exploit – a cycle ride from London to Paris.

Just a couple of days before he was due to take his driving test on March 25 two years ago Tom Wyatt, a sporty young man who was rarely ill, woke up with flu-like symptoms, which seemed to improve during the day.

However, in the evening he developed a headache and mum Julie rang the NHS Helpline.

“Unfortunately his symptoms didn’t tick the right boxes,” she said. “We were given no cause for concern.”

Tom’s headache got worse and his arm began to feel numb, so Julie rang for an ambulance.

By the time Tom arrived at Solihull Hospital he was fitting, and was put on a life support machine. Tragically, he never recovered.

“The whole village was devastated and we received tremendous support,” said Julie.

“I decided to honour Tom’s memory by raising funds for The Meningitis Trust, which helps people left with disabilities, which can range from brain damage to blindness and deafness. The trust also supports families who have lost loved ones to the killer disease.”

Julie’s first major fundraiser was walking The Great Wall of China in 2008, together with husband Mick (who also cycled to Paris) and daughter Sarah.

She was joined by Tom’s girlfriend, Laura Ward, who also helped raise funds.

In 2009 Julie cycled with Jerry Woodhouse, also from Kenilworth, who lost his 16-year-old daughter Sally to meningitis six months before Tom died.

“Julie has been an inspiration. We have been delighted to support her throughout her training – every member of staff has sponsored her,” said Julie’s boss, Alison Boothroyd.

If anyone would like to boost Julie’s funds for the trust donations can be made by logging onto http://www.boothroyd.co.uk or e-mailing . Or telephone 01926 857244.