Keeping John’s light bright to help others
The heartbroken family of Kilkeel schoolboy, John Doole, have spoken of their determination to honour his memory and keep his “light shining”.
The 11-year-old Kilkeel PS pupil sadly passed away following a road accident on February 3 this year.
It was a day that “changed everything”.
In the midst of their grief, his loved ones have decided to do something meaningful in John’s memory; something that could help save another family from experiencing the same despair.
They are organising a Tractor & Truck Run in Kilkeel on Saturday, August 1 to raise funds for Air Ambulance NI, a service that “means so much” to the family and one which relies entirely on charitable donations.
John’s older sister, Katie, described him as “the most beautiful, happiest little boy, always smiling, always laughing and full of life”.
She added: “His happiness was contagious. He could brighten even the darkest room just by being in it. He had the kindest soul, the biggest heart and a way of making everyone feel special and loved. He wasn’t just our brother, he was our world.”
Tuesday, February 3 began like any other day, but turned into tragedy. And a family was left “shattered forever”.
“It was the day our hearts broke in a way that will never fully heal,” Katie admitted.
“Since losing John, life has felt unbearably heavy. The house is quieter, the laughter is gone and there is a constant emptiness that follows us everywhere.
“We miss the little things the most, his voice, his hugs, his smile, the way he made everything feel okay.. Nothing will ever be the same again.”
Amidst their sorrow, the family have shown remarkable strength. And, out of their pain, they want to do something positive.
Katie explained: “We are raising funds for Air Ambulance NI, a life-saving service that provides urgent medical care at the scene of the most serious and traumatic incidents.
“Every single day in Northern Ireland, on average, two people find themselves in critical need of this service. Their helicopter can reach anywhere in the country in around 25 minutes, bringing a highly skilled team - including a doctor and paramedic - directly to those who need it most.
“This fundraiser is for John, for his beautiful life, his kindness and the joy he brought to everyone.
“Our Tractor & Truck Run will help raise vital funds. But it is also for every family who might one day need this incredible service. We cannot change what has happened to our family, but we can honour John’s memory in a way that could help save others.”
To date, over £2,100 has been raised and people can show their support by visiting https://gofund.me/3cfdba686
Registration for the Tractor & Truck Run will take place from 2pm on August 1 at Whitewater lay-by on the Drummanmore Road, Kilkeel, with the convoy leaving at 4pm sharp.
The run will finish at Ballyvea Hub where there will be a barbecue, refreshments, raffle and entertainment. Everyone is welcome to attend the fundraiser.
Entry is £15 per vehicle, with £5 for each additional passenger over 14-years-old. Registration includes a burger and drink for the driver.