Evening in Niall’s memory raises £3,000

Niall, a brave and popular schoolboy from Lurgan passed away at home in October 2009 under the care of the Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice after being diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour less than a year before.

He was just 17 years old. His family and friends have raised the £3,000 in his memory.

Niall was a real character who loved life and was determined to live it to the full. In fact just a few months before he passed away he went to the Emirates Stadium to watch his beloved Arsenal play Celtic in the Champions League.

Niall faced the challenges of his illness with a great sense of humour, a positive attitude and courage. Throughout his gruelling treatment never once did he complain and the constant flow of visitors to his bedside was a testament to how popular and well respected he was by all who knew and loved him.

Sharon Gorman, donor officer said, “We are really grateful for this £3,000 donation. Without community support from families like Niall’s we simply couldn’t maintain or develop our unique children’s hospice service. Niall is greatly missed by all who knew and loved him but I hope that knowing that this substantial donation will make a real difference to other children and young people will bring them a little sense of comfort. Their generosity will enable us to fund six full days of care for a local child or young person needing our service.”

Niall’s parents, Sean and Jackie were so overwhelmed by the care shown by Children’s Hospice that they have set up the Niall Duffy Tribute Fund. This fund will commemorate and honour Niall whilst improving the lives of local families needing hospice care.

Sean and Jackie said “Maire, Pauline and Briege, the nurses from Children’s Hospice, always went the extra mile to ensure Niall’s every need was met and they gave our family so much support.

“Children’s Hospice provides an inspirational service and through Niall’s Tribute Fund we are determined to raise as much money as we can so that other local families will benefit.

“Maire was with us at home when Niall passed away so it was fitting, yet emotional that Maire was with us 
when we presented the cheque to Children’s Hospice in Niall’s memory.”

If you would like more information about the Children’s Hospice or about setting up a Tribute Fund, contact Sharon Gorman on 028 9078 1836.