On 24 August, Gillian and her nine children, ranging in age from just 6 to 25, suddenly lost their partner and dad, Paul.

While they are trying to come to terms with an unimaginable loss, Gillian is also facing a very difficult reality; Paul was the sole income earner for their family.

With Gillian's blessing, I have created this fundraiser in the hope that we, as friends, neighbours and the wider community, can come together and help carry some of the financial burden that has suddenly fallen on her shoulders.

Because the harsh reality is that everyday life doesn't stop for grief.

Rent and household bills continue to fall due. Food still needs to be put on the table. The younger children are returning to school, bringing all the usual expenses of a new school year, and the everyday costs of raising a large family continue.

Gillian has had no opportunity to financially prepare for the sudden loss of the family's sole income. Alongside grieving the loss of her partner, she is now faced with keeping their home and family going without the income they depended upon.

There are practical challenges ahead too. Gillian doesn't drive, and with children needing to get to school, appointments , GAA trainings and activities, transport is now another worry she will have to navigate.

At a time when Gillian should be able to concentrate on herself and her children and give them the space to grieve, she shouldn't also have to carry the immediate worry of how she will keep a roof over their heads, pay the bills and meet her children's everyday needs.

This is where I hope we, as a community, can help.

We cannot take away their grief. We cannot change what has happened. But together, we can help ease some of the financial worry and give Gillian and the children some much-needed breathing space as they navigate the difficult weeks and months ahead.

Every donation, no matter the amount, will go directly towards supporting Gillian and the children with the everyday costs of keeping their family and home going.

If you aren't in a position to donate, please consider sharing this fundraiser. Every share helps it reach another person who may be able to help.

Gillian and the children need their community around them now more than ever !

If we can each do even a little, together we can make sure that while this family faces an incredibly difficult time, they don't have to face the financial burden of it alone. ❤️