“I fully appreciated how incredibly strong the family's resolve is to fight for a better future.”
Daksha and Dilip Mistry hosted a glamorous fundraising ball in aid of Meningitis Now last week. Members of our fundraising team joined the celebrations.
Kat Hollywell, Fundraising Officer, tells us more about it; “I was delighted to attend the Mistry’s charity ball, along with Senior Development Officer, Carol Freeman, at the Queen Alexandra Hall in Oldham.
“The ball was held in memory of the Mistry’s daughter Bhavini, who died at just 11 months old in 1988. Over the last 35 years, the family have raised more than £82,000 for Meningitis Now.
Grand venue
“Queen Alexandra Hall was a fittingly grand venue for the 350 guests who gathered to party the night away. A tombola, raffle and auction raised vital funds to help continue the work of Meningitis Now, as well as two other charities that are close to the family’s hearts.
“Guests were treated to a decadent three course Indian menu, which was enjoyed whilst local dance academies entertained the crowd. Members of the Mistry family also took to the stage to share their experience of losing Bhavini and their subsequent fundraising efforts.
“Daksha and Dilip’s son Bhaven told us about riding his beloved bike, Gonzalez, from Madrid to London earlier this year, through which he raised over £7,300 for Meningitis Now and tears were shed as Daksha revealed the heartbreak of saying goodbye to Bhavini 35 years ago.
Incredibly strong
“During her speech, Daksha spoke of the relief and pride she felt when her eldest son, Ricky, called with news that his daughter had been vaccinated against meningitis. Watching Daksha spin her granddaughter Mila around the dance floor only moments later, I fully appreciated how incredibly strong the families resolve is to fight for a better future.
“Supporting Daksha to plan the charity ball over the last 18 months has been an absolute pleasure. Her resilience and strength never fail to impress me and seeing the family’s local community come together to support the ball was incredible.
“We are so grateful for the Mistry’s support over the last 35 years, and hope that Daksha and Dilip know how important a part of the Meningitis Now family they are.”
