Mother vows to ensure baby Alex will never be forgotten

Joanne Pedlow and Jo-Anne Dobson MLA outside Brownlow House with Robert Odgers.

Joanne Pedlow said “Alex may have been with us for a very short time, but I am determined to make sure that he is never ever forgotten.”

A coffee morning is to be held in Brownlow House on Saturday, March 14, between 10.30 and 12.30 in memory of little baby Alex McCartney who lost his fight for life in January.

All proceeds raised will go to the paediatric unit at Craigavon Area Hospital.

Joanne said: “As a family we are so grateful for the love, thoughts and prayers of the community and the support we have received.

“But we are also so thankful for the care and attention which Alex received from the staff in our hospitals,” said Joanne.

“That’s why we wanted to give something back,” she told the ‘MAIL’.

“The coffee morning will help us to pass on something positive for families who need the love, care and attention which our fantastic healthcare staff in the hospitals provide.”

Also commenting Jo-Anne Dobson MLA said: “I have nothing but admiration for Joanne and Stephen who, when going through the ultimate grief of losing their beloved Alex, took the brave decision to give miracles to others.

“Joanne and I are joining forces to ensure that we have a lasting legacy for Alex and one which helps other families who need the care of our hospital.

“Brownlow House was a natural choice for us because of the important role it plays in Lurgan and I would urge as many people as possible to come along and support Joanne and the Hospital,” said the Ulster Unionist MLA.

Robert Odgers from Brownlow House said: “When I was approached by the two Joannes, and as a family man myself, I had absolutely no hesitation in putting Brownlow House forward to support this extremely worthy cause!

“It’s just right that Brownlow House continues to play a pivotal role in the town and at the heart of our community,” said Robert.

“We look forward to hosting everyone in our historic and magnificent setting and supporting Joanne and her family in Alex’s memory,” he said.

The community united in grief when the little boy passed away on Wednesday, January 21, having been on a life support machine in the Royal Victoria Hospital  following an accident at the family home in  Mourneview.