Our Story

Our first child, Avnee, was born May 6th, 2013. Avnee was healthy, vibrant, and perfect in every way. Her first 5 months of life were filled with family, fun, and lots of love! During the early morning hours of October 17th, 2013, she developed a fever followed by a small rash. Avnee was quickly taken to our local pediatric hospital where she received excellent medical care. However, she rapidly worsened and began having seizures as well as requiring a breathing tube. Unbelievably, the infection continued despite the very best medical efforts. Less than 15 hours after the first sign of fever, Avnee passed away. Following her passing, we learned that our precious baby girl was lost due to Meningitis Type B. Just over a year later, in late 2014, the vaccine to protect against Meningitis B was approved in the United States. We have made it our mission to educate, advocate, and vaccinate in an effort to Beat Meningitis B. It is our hope that others can be saved from what is now a preventable loss.

Amit  &  Melissa Rawal

“As a physician, I believe it’s important to know that the data and recommendations about meningococcal type B vaccination are evolving rapidly for this new vaccine. Several other countries including the United Kingdom and Canada already recommend vaccination for infants and other age groups. In the U.S., the vaccine is now available for adolescents and young adults between the ages of 10-25, with special recommendation for ages 16-23. Parents, adolescents, and young adults should speak to their doctors about getting vaccinated and keep up to date on the latest information.”

Dr. Amit Rawal

Emergency Medicine Physician

Our Mission

The mission of the Avnee Foundation is to beat Meningitis B through education, advocacy, and increased vaccination.

The Avnee Foundation is made up of physicians, health care professionals, researchers, parents, students, and educators that share a passion for preventing the devastating consequences of meningococcal disease. To achieve its mission, the Foundation develops and supports programs that promote education about, advocacy for, and uptake of vaccines for meningococcal disease. The Foundation also supports community programs designed to enhance pediatric health and community wellness.

The Avnee Foundation has a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation designation in partnership with the Community Foundation of North Central Florida.

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What is Meningitis B
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About the Foundation
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What is Meningitis B
WHAT YOU CAN DO!