Mary is Reaching Out to People Who Had to Grieve Throughout the Pandemic

Mary Sheehy, who lives in Annagh just outside Tralee but is originally from Youghal in County Cork, is reaching out to people who have experienced loss and have had to grieve throughout the pandemic. Loss and grief are devastating at any time but the last two years have added layers of horror that a few years ago we would have thought unthinkable.

Mary lost her Brother, Mother and Mother-in-Law during Covid and the families had to experience their grief and say goodbye to their loved ones during different levels of restrictions and very different levels of anxieties.

Now Mary is reaching out to others who experienced great loss during the pandemic, those who worked on the front line to be with those who passed away when their families could not be with them, to pay tribute to these loved ones. People are invited to write a short essay, poem or a reflection on their experience to contribute to a book “Shine On”. Funds raised from the finished book will be shared between the Kerry Cancer Support Group, Healthlink Transport and Youghal Cancer Support, all of which were close to Mary’s brother’s heart.

Breda Dyland, Service Manager, with KCSG – “We were very happy when Mary came to us with this idea. I think that it is important that people have the chance to remember loved ones. Many of us didn’t have the chance to do so during Covid. This will be a beautiful way to acknowledge and remember.”

Shane Murphy Director of services with YCS- “This is a fantastic idea as we are more than aware through the centre of the many people who lost loved ones during covid and this would be a great way honour. We are so looking forward to working with Mary on this Project.”

Mary Sheehy “It is my hope that “Shine On” will be a tribute to all who lost their lives during the pandemic and a comfort and consolation to their bereaved families and friends. To be denied the chance to mourn together with loved ones was a very painful experience. May it never happen again”

If you would like information on the Mary Sheehy’s project contact Mary at shineonmemory@gmail.com or Breda at info@kerrycancersupport.com or Shane youghal@youghalcancersupport.ie

Youghal Cancer Support Centre is a voluntary organisation established to provide the best possible cancer support services to the people of East Cork and West Waterford area. With the counselling, relaxation therapies and group support services on offer, we endeavour to provide cancer patients, their families and carers with a safe place; a place to talk things over, to relax and express emotions.

We are located on 29 Friar St Youghal we are open 4 days a week if you want to avail of our services you can Call Shane on 0852507385