By Peg Prendeville

Our sympathies go to Seán Sheahan, Knockdown on the death of his brother Mikie Sheahan who died this week in the UK from Motor Neuron disease. Mike was home for the Clounleharde School Reunion in 2013 and again this summer but sadly the MD advanced rapidly. Many of his friends in the area had gone to visit him in recent times and I am sure he appreciated their thoughtfulness. Sympathies too to the Cummane family on the death of Mattie Walshe, Askeaton, husband to Mairéad Cummane who pre-deceased him. He will be missed by his family Sinéad, Deirdre and Ciarán and extended family members and friends.

The Console Christmas Celebration of Light commemorates the lives lost through Suicide. This is one of the most important events in Console’s calender, inviting families and friends to come together in solidarity to remember the lives of their friends and loved ones. The Christmas Celebration of Light is an evening of song, music, poetry and reflection. The evening includes the lighting of candles and a minutes silence in the presence of others to remember those who are no longer with us on life’s journey. It will be held next Sunday in St Augustine’s Church in Limerick at 4pm.

Some of you may remember that my grandchild Lucy was born, 21 months ago now, with Spinabifida. Lucy, a beautiful girl with a mischievous smile, has no power in her legs. Two months ago she started intensive physio in First Steps, just outside Patrickswell, and I am delighted to say that since she started she can sit up straight, roll over and this week did her first crawl/creep along the floor to fetch a toy. The reason I am writing about her is to confirm that we should never give up hope no matter what the obstacles are. There is always something new or some new development which can change things. We do not know if Lucy will ever walk but she is determined to try and endures very physical exercises to strengthen her muscles. Where there’s a will there’s a way! I have the privilege of taking Lucy to her physio every Monday morning and am proud of her progress. She inspires us all and is a very happy child.

I am looking forward to the staging of the play ‘ Its the Real McCoy” by Athea Drama Group, which will be going on stage in January 22nd, 24th, 25th, 29th, 31st and February 1^st. 

I admire their commitment and energy.