“Even the smallest of feet have the power to leave everlasting footprints on the world”. Baby Lucy may have been tiny, but the imprint she has left on this world and on the hearts of the people she touched is immeasurable. This was truly visible last Saturday, March 9th, when hundreds showed up at Deebert House Hotel, Kilmallock to take part in the Fun Day for Lucy in aid of the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation and in memory of Baby Lucy Anne Murphy O’Sullivan.
In the morning, 81 cyclists completed the 60km 30km cycle. The sun was shining and the cyclists really enjoyed the spin which departed from Kilmallock at 10am and continued through Kilfinane, Hospital and home via Bruff. The special, surprise guest, Sonia O’Sullivan, completed the route with cyclists from many of the local clubs including, Cycle for Sick Children, Southside Wheelie Wheelers, Kilmallock Cycling Club, Cliona’s Foundation Cycling Club, Desmond Cycling Club, Limerick Charity Weight Loss and the many individuals who travelled from far and near to participate in this very special event.
In the afternoon, 250 runners, walkers, buggy-pushers and young cyclists completed the 8km fun route, accompanied again by Sonia O’Sullivan. Deebert House was awash with pink as young and old turned out to partake in the fun. The crowd warmed up to the music and dance provided by Mary Donegan Meyer of Fit4life, Wiggles the Clown decked out the buggies and bikes with pink balloons of all shapes and sizes, and the face-painters added colour and smiles to all the children’s faces. Following a pink balloon release at 2pm, the crowd headed through the streets of Kilmallock, full of fun, laughter and colour. The crowd were welcomed home to goodies and treats for all the family and more entertainment with Wiggles the Clown and DJ Derek Sheedy. Sonia spent time with all who came along, and beautiful memories and photos were recorded. It certainly was a fun day for all and a beautiful way to remember Lucy Beag.
The family will always and forever be grateful to the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation who provided home-nursing care for Baby Lucy, allowing Lucy to be cared for at home until she passed away peacefully in her family’s arms. During Lucy’s time at home, the family spent precious time with their beautiful little girl, creating memories that would last forever. Nothing compares to caring for your baby at home.
The O’Sullivan Family of Deebert House Hotel aim to raise enough funds to allow the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation to provide home-nursing care for one baby for one year. This target has nearly been reached. If anyone else would like to contribute and help the family reach this target, donations can be dropped into Margaret at Deebert House Hotel or made online at http://www.mycharity.ie/event/ide_osullivans_event/.
The family are extremely grateful to everyone who participated in the Fun Day for Lucy and to all of their family and friends who helped in the organisation. It was a truly memorable day for everyone and a beautiful way to remember their little girl, while honouring the wonderful work carried out each day by the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation. Thank you so much also to all the boys and girls of Scoil Mocheallóg, Kilmallock National School, and the students of St. Joseph’s College, Borrisoleigh, who participated in the Pink Day for Lucy on Friday March 8th and raised €570 and €1,000 respevtively. Finally, the family would like to thank the hotel’s suppliers who sponsored refreshments for all participants and local businesses who provided spot prizes, namely Kilmallock Cycles, Trail Riders, Mr Finn’s Sweet Shop, Novelle Hair and Beauty, Pixie Photos and Limerick Sports Store.