A Haven for Families in Palliative Care

My name is Erwin Kingston from Kingston's Townhouse in Killorglin. On October 14th, my beloved wife, Aoife, passed away peacefully in the arms of our three daughters, Molly, Lucy, and Anna. Aoife's journey through illness was marked by courage, grace, and an unwavering love for our family. The exceptional care she received at the Specialist Palliative Care Unit at Kerry University Hospital in Tralee, Co. Kerry, Ireland, played a pivotal role in making her final days as comfortable and dignified as possible.

In honour of Aoife's memory, I have embarked on a mission to raise €50,000 to transform the children's area within the Palliative Care Unit into a haven where families can find solace and joy amidst the challenges they face.

Creating a Sanctuary of Hope and Play

The current children's room, while well-intentioned, falls short of providing the welcoming and supportive environment that children need during this difficult time. The space is small and dimly lit, with a limited selection of outdated toys and games. We envision a transformed area that is bright, spacious, and equipped with age-appropriate activities, sensory experiences, and technology to cater to a wide range of needs.

Our vision for this transformed children's area encompasses the following enhancements:

An expanded physical space: The current room is cramped and often crowded, making it difficult for families to find privacy and comfort. We envision a larger space that can accommodate multiple families without feeling overfilled.

A dedicated study/work area: Children should have the opportunity to continue their education or engage in hobbies even during challenging times. We envision a designated area with computers, study desks, and access to educational resources.

A diverse selection of toys and games: The current selection of toys is limited and primarily geared towards younger children. We envision a more comprehensive collection of toys and games that cater to a wider age range, from toddlers to teenagers.

Sensory facilities for children with additional needs: We want to ensure that the space is inclusive and welcoming to all children, regardless of their physical or emotional needs. We envision sensory-friendly elements, such as calming lighting, soft textures, and soothing music.

Updated technology: Children today are tech-savvy and often rely on technology for entertainment and connection. We envision providing access to tablets, games consoles, and streaming services to offer comfort and distraction.

Transparency and Collaboration

We are committed to ensuring that your contributions are used in a way that maximises the impact on families in need. We will work closely with the Palliative Care Unit staff to prioritise the most pressing needs and ensure that the funds are allocated responsibly and effectively.

Sharing Hope and Compassion

We invite you to join us in this heartfelt endeavor to transform the children's area at the Specialist Palliative Care Unit into a beacon of hope and comfort for families facing difficult times. Your generous contribution, no matter the size, will make a profound difference in the lives of countless children and their families.

Together, we can create a haven where children can find solace, engage in play, and create cherished memories amidst the challenges they face.

Please share this campaign with your loved ones and encourage them to join us in making a difference.