In memory of Baby Tiernán Byrne

At our 20 week scan, our worst fears came to light, "I can see a problem...". Just like that, our world fell apart and we began a pregnancy journey no couple should ever face. After countless appointments and scans, it was confirmed that baby Tiernán had multiple problems on his brain, heart and internal organs and that he would be born life limited. We were told at 30 weeks that the pregnancy was becoming high risk, and planned a section at 34 weeks and 3 days. We had been warned that they were unsure what would happen after they cut the cord, but hearing that cry was one of the best moments of our lives. Tiernán Michael Byrne was born, the most beautiful little boy, 6lb 12oz. We got to hold him, hear him and see him...

Tiernán proved to everyone that he was a fighter. He gave us moments and memories that will remain with us forever. One of the most unforgettable, being told that he had full hearing in his right ear, we were ecstatic. Meeting his big brother Oisín, having him christened surrounded by his family, taking him for a walk to the park in his pram, giving him a bubble bath, his feeds increasing, all daily tasks and moments that we take for granted as parents but were so special to have with him. 34 days of sheer joy, but tears and pain that no mum or dad should feel.

Although no parents should ever feel pain like we have, it was eased by the support of the staff and nurses in the neo natal department of the Royal Belfast, and the care team at the children's hospice, we are fundraising for them! We are hoping to raise as much as possible to purchase an oxygen machine for the neo natal unit, a life saving piece of equipment that we know will help many other babies and families. We are also hoping to send the Children's Hospice a cash donation as they rely heavily on donations to continue their work helping and caring for sick children. We will be taking part in the below events;

Saturday 9th August - Paddy along with friends will take on the Mourne 7 Peaks challenge. 7 Peaks, 18 miles, Ascent 8,400 ft (2,500m) and approx. 12 hours. More details can be found at this link;

https://lvo.org.uk/mourne-seven-sevens-challenge-walk/

Saturday 16th August - Sinead, Paddy and Friends will take part in The Big Walk, 12-hour endurance challenge at Stormont, midday to midnight.

More details can be found at this link;

https://www.nihospice.org/get-involved/events-appeals/one-big-walk/

Every donation matters, no matter how big or small, we need help to spread the word to try and hit such a huge target. This piece of equipment, and the donation to the children's hospice will be another part of Tiernan's story and legacy, and we hope we can do him proud.

Sinéad, Paddy and Oisín