The mother of brave Galway battler Saoirse Ruane shared her ongoing journey of grief on the public stage last week – but mixed it with a message of hope, resilience, and community.

Nearly 350 guests braved the aftermath of Storm Eowyn to gather at the Shearwater Hotel in Ballinasloe for an Evening with Roseanna and Friends, an intimate event hosted by Roseanna Ruane in honour of her daughter Saoírse.

MC Caroline Downey opened the evening with warm words, introducing Roseanna and her husband Ollie, who throughout the evening, shared deeply personal stories of their journey through grief.

Roseanna reflected on Saoírse’s incredible bravery, recalling her strength and positivity even during the most challenging times.

“Saoírse was a beacon of light. Her bravery carried all of us through, and her legacy continues to inspire kindness and hope,” said Roseanna.

The evening began with stunning musical performances by the Fahy Family, joined by Chris Kelly of Trad on the Prom fame. Their beautiful melodies set the tone for the heartfelt discussions that followed.

The first speaker, Dr. Suzanne McClean, co-founder of Rosabel’s Rooms and Anu Wellness Hub shared her story of child loss and her mission to provide therapeutic and financial support to bereaved families.

Suzanne’s conversation with Roseanna offered a raw and powerful exchange between two mothers navigating their grief in different ways.

Next, health and fitness coach Laura Burke inspired the audience with practical advice on maintaining physical health, nutrition, and activity during grief.

Laura and Roseanna’s personal friendship, which began during Saoírse’s illness, brought a unique and deeply heartfelt layer to her talk.

Renowned mental fitness expert Gerry Hussey closed the speaker portion of the evening with a profound exploration of how to move forward while honouring the memory of those we’ve lost.

Gerry’s conversation with Roseanna and Ollie provided a rare and meaningful perspective on grief from a father’s viewpoint.

Throughout the night, the audience sat in rapt attention, moved by the courage and honesty of the speakers.

The evening concluded with an emotional performance by the Kiltulla Choir, leaving not a dry eye in the room. The musical interludes by the Fahy Family and Chris Kelly helped lighten the mood at just the right moments.

Roseanna shared a slideshow of family photos and videos, including treasured memories with Saoírse, as she recounted their journey with heartbreaking honesty.

“I am so grateful to everyone who supported tonight. There is such a need for these events, and I plan to hold another evening in the coming months. Saoírse was definitely with us tonight—I could feel her presence,” Roseanna said.

A raffle held during the event raised vital funds for the Paediatric Unit of Portiuncula Hospital – something personal to Roseanna as she herself was there for a time as a sick child.

Pictured: Roseanna and Ollie Ruane (centre) with speakers Gerry Hussey, Suzanne McClean, Laura Burke and Caroline Downey at  an Evening with Roseanna and Friends.