Linda J. Collins
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                        
                        
                          I got meningitis just before Christmas of 1998, and my life has changed radically.      I would like to talk to others who have had meningitis, and who suffer from the long-term damage that this disease causes.    I am partially blind, have hearing problems, poor short-term memory, slight dyslexia, depression, an aortic valve that will need to be replaced, as well as my right hip.  I was not propoerly diagnosed in time, and so will have many problems for the rest of my life.       The long-term problems go beyond physical health.    I would also like to start a support group for people in the Puget Sound region of washington State for survivors of this disease.    Please e-mail me.