Advocate Profile, Holly Burch

Holly Burch’s son, Drew, was an active high school senior when he died from meningococcal disease, a serious but vaccine-preventable bacterial infection. A leader by nature, Drew was junior class president and a competitive skateboarder. He was loved by many for his passion for life. One day, Drew developed flu-like symptoms. Thinking he just needed rest, Holly suggested he go to bed early. When Holly went to wake Drew for school the next day, she was shocked to find him unresponsive. Holly immediately called 911, and paramedics rushed Drew to the emergency room. Sadly, Drew died only a few hours later. It wasn’t until after Drew’s death that Holly learned vaccination can prevent meningococcal disease.

“Everything I do now is for Drew,” said Holly. “I hope to prevent other families from experiencing the devastating effects of meningococcal disease.”

Drew’s sister, Tessa Ottley, is a T.E.A.M. member.