What started as a fun family trip ended in heartbreak when 4-year-old Jaxon Knowles tragically passed away from meningococcal disease, a rare and fast-acting form of meningitis.

After returning from a trip to Blackpool, Jaxon complained to his mom, Sammy, saying “under my arm hurts” and mentioned a stomach ache. Thinking it was something minor, she gave him paracetamol and let him sleep beside her.

By the next morning, Jaxon’s condition had worsened—he developed a rash, swelling in his mouth, and began having trouble breathing. Despite the quick response from emergency services, he couldn’t be saved.

Meningococcal disease can escalate rapidly, even in previously healthy children. Jaxon’s sudden decline has left his family and community devastated, and his story is now raising awareness about recognizing early signs of serious illness in children.