ATHENS – Athens Mayor Ronnie Marks and Limestone County Commission Chairman Collin Daly have signed a proclamation designating Tuesday as Meningitis Awareness Day in the city and county.
According to a news release from the city, the day serves as a poignant, annual tribute to Jessica Elkins, then a freshman cheerleader at Athens High School, who died from bacterial meningitis in December 2007 at age 15. Tuesday would have been her 33rd birthday.
Since her death, the Elkins family has worked to raise awareness about meningitis, ensuring Jessica’s memory lives on through their continued advocacy.
“Her family’s dedication to educating others about the serious disease after everything that they have lost has been a shining example of hope and resilience,” the release said.
Marks and Daly were joined by the Elkins family for today’s proclamation signing.
The annual ceremony not only serves as a solemn reminder of the impact of meningitis, but as a call to action for all residents to learn about the disease, recognize its symptoms and ensure they are up-to-date on vaccinations.
