Macknade launches charity partnership with Meningitis Research Foundation with 'Ride to Verona' spinathon

Juliette, a much-loved member of the Macknade team, tragically lost her life to meningitis earlier this year. Following discussions with her family, Macknade has chosen to support Meningitis Research Foundation in her memory.

The 'Ride to Verona' spinathon will challenge participants to collectively cycle the equivalent distance from Faversham to Verona, Italy - a place that holds special meaning for Juliette and her family. Taking place on Wednesday 10th June at Spinlab - Macknade's new indoor cycling studio - in Faversham, the spinathon will see 20 bikes running throughout the day, with staff, suppliers and partners invited to take part.

Stefano Cuomo, CEO of Macknade, commented: "Juliette was a much loved member of our café team and was part of the Macknade family. She is deeply missed by everyone here. Launching this partnership with Meningitis Research Foundation felt like a meaningful way to honour her memory, while raising awareness and funds for an important cause. We decided to cycle to Verona because it was a place that Juliette loved. We hope the event gives our community an opportunity to come together, celebrate her life and support the work of this amazing charity."

The event marks the beginning of Macknade's fundraising efforts for Meningitis Research Foundation, a global charity working to defeat meningitis. From its base in the UK, it leads pioneering research, provides vital support to those affected by meningitis and works internationally to improve health policy and drive change to save lives.

Vinny Smith, Chief Executive of Meningitis Research Foundation, said: "We are truly honoured to have been chosen as Macknade's Charity of the Year in memory of Juliette. While this partnership comes from such a heartbreaking loss, we are deeply grateful that Juliette's family and colleagues are choosing to honour her memory in this way, helping to raise vital funds and awareness. Support from everyone at Macknade will help us continue to be there for those affected when they need us most, while also funding lifesaving research to help prevent meningitis and protect lives worldwide. We look forward to working together over the coming year to make a meaningful difference in Juliette's memory."

You can donate to the fundraiser by visiting the website here: https://www.justgiving.com/team/macknade-ride-to-verona

More information on the Meningitis Research Foundation can be found here: https://www.meningitis.org