LOVE was quite literally in the air during LauraLynn’s first regional abseil fundraiser at Thomond Park when a daredevil man proposed to his partner during their descent from the stadium’s West Stand.
Colm Naughton popped the question to his partner Catherine Downey while the pair dangled from the stand, while cheers erupted from below.
Their son Éanna and the family are supported by LauraLynn, Ireland’s Children’s Hospice regional service base in Ballinasloe.
Ahead of the inaugural fundraiser, the couple raised an incredible €18,000 to support children with palliative care needs and their families across Ireland.
“Even though we have been together for so long, I was still totally shocked that Colm picked that day to propose,” shared Catherine. “It made a special day even more special and meaningful.”
The abseil event welcomed 20 brave participants to Thomond Park, offering thrill seekers, rugby fans, and families a chance to see the stadium from a whole new perspective while raising vital funds for children with life-limiting conditions and their families.
Funds raised will help LauraLynn continue to provide free care and support from its hospice in Dublin and through its community hubs in Mallow, County Cork, and Ballinasloe, County Galway.
Currently, 24 families in Limerick are receiving care from the LauraLynn team.
“We are delighted with how our first regional fundraiser went in Limerick,” said Elaine Buckley, LauraLynn regional fundraising executive.
“Colm and Catherine’s engagement was a beautiful surprise and a reminder of the love and strength that surrounds our families. Every participant today helped make a difference.”
Participants walked through the iconic Munster player’s tunnel before their descent, guided by professional instructors to ensure a safe and memorable experience.
The event was open to individuals, families, companies, and community groups, with each abseiler committing to a fundraising target to support LauraLynn’s mission.
LauraLynn provides specialist palliative care to children from birth to 18 years, offering services such as symptom management, music and play therapy, psychological support, and end-of-life care, all delivered in the hospice, in hospitals, and in family homes across Ireland.
