Our gorgeous son Rían was born on 4th January 2022. He lived for 14 months until 16th March 2023. We are devastated by his loss but so grateful for every precious moment he gave us. He was born with an uncertain life expectancy but that doesn't make it any easier. I was 16 weeks pregnant with his little sister when he passed away. It is heartbreaking that they never met. 

When I was pregnant with Rían I continued sea swimming and always felt a connection with him in the water. Unfortunately, we were never able to bring him into the sea but did bring him on family walks to the beach. 

We want to remember and celebrate his life on 23rd March 2024 with a sea swim at Portmarnock beach. Please join us if you can on the day. Don't worry if you don't swim, bring a tea or coffee and have a chat. We would also like to give back to some of the charities that helped us in different ways during Rían's life. There are many many organisations that we would love to support but this year we have chosen these two. 

Ciarán and I have chosen to fundraise for The Jack & Jill Children's Foundation and Cliona's Foundation. All funds raised here will go directly to these great causes. 

We were able to care for Rían at home with the help of the nurses and support provided by Jack & Jill. They gave us advice, guidance and space to take a short break when needed. The money from your donations will go towards paying nurses to help in families homes. 

Cliona's Foundation gave us a financial donation when Rían was in Temple Street hospital having brain surgery. I had never heard of this charity but the money they provided paid for simple things like meals and parking. The money from your donation will go towards these day to day expenses that build up for families in hospitals.

I hope you can help by donating whatever you can. Simply click the Donate button above. All donations are processed securely.

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Many Thanks for your support.

Aoife, Ciarán, Rían and Éala