Marie Donnellan. Photograph: Adrian Megahey
NEWMARKET-ON-FERGUS’ Marie Donnellan has released a children’s book in memory of her late daughter, Catherine.
‘Always’ was released earlier this month with all proceeds being donated to HopeSpace. The book was officially launched at a private event in Galway on Friday by RTÉ broadcaster, Miriam O’Callaghan at The Druid Theatre.
Written and illustrated by Marie with the assistance of her two young children, Rose and JJ who helped to keep the memory of their sister Catherine present in their lives and carry her strength with them as they grow.
Intended to resonate widely, the story will empower families navigating the loss of someone in their life while remaining an engaging and accessible story for any child. Always follows a young bear through a number of life milestones, from early childhood through to adulthood, accompanied throughout by a blue butterfly. The butterfly symbolises the ongoing presence of someone no longer physically here, offering an uplifting and empowering way to help children reinforce a sense of connection, strength and support.
Self-published by Marie as a charity project, the entire proceeds from Always will be donated to children’s bereavement charity HopeSpace a free one to one in person listening support service for children and families experiencing grief.
CEO of the Galway innovation hub, Platform 94 since March 2024, Marie spoke of the huge support she has received in releasing her first book. “This book has been made possible through an incredible level of support from those around me. I want to thank my family, friends, colleagues and everyone that has played a part in the journey. I am deeply proud to publish this book and am hopeful that it offers an uplifting and empowering message that resonates widely”.
Marie said the response to the release of the book has been “incredible”. Publishing the book had been in her mind for some time and following Catherine’s inquest last year Marie felt it would be the right time to try do “something nice” for other people. “It is written as a tribute as Catherine but the idea is that anyone who lost anyone in their family will find it useful, it is an empowering book, it is not about grief”.
Of the launch night, Marie remarked, “the energy and feeling of support and encouragement in the room was unlike anything I have ever experienced. It was a magical night that will stay with me forever”.
Breda Fallon, Co-founder and Director of HopeSpace said, “This is a powerful and thoughtfully developed book that will make a real difference. It provides a simple and impactful way to approach conversations around grief, offering support to children navigating complex emotions”.
Always can be purchased HERE
