A COLNE mum whose son contracted meningitis is backing a campaign to raise awareness of the challenges carers face.

Julie Jenkins, 32, says looking after her son Louie is a '24-7' job after he had both his legs amputated from below the knee, when he became critically ill with meningitis in 2012.

Louie now uses prosthetics legs, however he has had to undergo two operations to stabilise the bones in his legs after he became plagued with pain when wearing them.

Julie now dedicates her time to supporting Meningitis Now to raise awareness of the challenges carers face and the long-term impact of the disease.

Julie, from Chatham Street, said: "Being a carer is 24-7. It can be challenging and people don’t always realise the impact it can have on your life. But knowing I’m helping someone can be extremely rewarding.

"Life has changed dramatically since Louie contracted meningitis. As a result of the disease, Louie is a double leg amputee and uses prosthetics.

"I have dedicated my life to helping Louie and at times it can be very challenging. Caring for Louie full time has meant thatI have given up my working life and the social aspects that come from working, so I can feel very isolated at times.

"I take him to every appointment, travelling long distances and often needing to stay overnight in hospitals when he has operations.

"Caring for Louie also brings many emotional aspects - knowing how he struggles with everyday activities and that he wants to do the same things as his peers.

"I have learnt so much about Louie’s condition and how best I can help and support him. He is an inspiring, happy boy and I wouldn’t change him for the world."

Meningitis Now founder Steve Dayman MBE, who launched the UK’s meningitis movement after losing his son Spencer to the disease in 1982, said: "Carers don’t get enough recognition for their contribution to families and communities. I meet many people living with after-effects every day, and the impact is felt by everyone around them.

"We offer a range of free services to provide emotional support to carers and sufferers, including counselling, home visits and one-to-one support. As the financial impact can also be huge, we offer grants covering anything from specialist equipment to respite care.

National Carers' Week runs until June 14.

For more information, visit www.meningitisnow.org or freephone 0808 80 10 388.