As we approach the first anniversary of Della’s passing on 21 February 2023, her husband Paul, daughters Alberta, Patria, Claire, sons Paul, Adrian and wider family wish to extend heartfelt thanks to our relations, neighbours, friends and colleagues for the expressions of sympathy and support offered to us following her passing. 

 

To all who called to our home, phoned, sent cards and letters, left lovely messages of condolence, came to Della’s wake, attended the funeral mass, offered gentle words of sympathy and made donations to the Irish Motor Neuron Disease Association of Ireland (IMNDA) - thank you.  We were greatly touched by the love and support we received.

 

It meant so much to have Della repose at home for two days and that would not have been possible without the incredible support of our many good neighbours and friends: Sgt Mark Crehan and Gda John Hughes for traffic management assisted by John Joe, Sean, Mick, PJ and Barry, and to everyone who brought food and refreshments to our home over those few days. A special thanks to Brenda, Kathleen, Patricia, Ann and Helena for their help with the hospitality.

 

Our sincere appreciation to Vincent Cummins of Cummins’ Funeral Directors, Ballinrobe for his professionalism and guidance, and to the staff at Shannon Crematorium.

 

We would like to convey our gratitude to Fr Micheal Gormally, PP Kilmaine, and Fr Vivian Loughrey, PP Shrule, who concelebrated the Requiem Mass.  Thanks also to Helen and Ernestine for providing refreshments following the mass.

 

Heartfelt thanks to the management and staff of Friars Lodge Nursing Home, Ballinrobe.  They ensured Della was very comfortable throughout her short time with them and most especially at the end.

 

We would like to express our gratitude to the medical and care professionals who cared for Della’s complex medical needs over the last few years: especially Dr Alan Costello, Nurse Denise Costello and their team; the consultants and staff at University Hospital, Galway, in particular the Neurology Department; Ryders Pharmacy, Headford and to those who gave practical assistance and friendship to Della, especially Tina, Margaret, Dorothy and Róisín.

 

We also very much appreciate the support we obtained from the IMNDA following Della’s diagnosis in October 2022. The work they do is wonderful. 

 

To our wonderful relations, friends and neighbours, particularly John Joe and Patricia, a huge thank you for your kindness and friendship to Della throughout her life and most especially over her last few years, and also for your ongoing support and friendship to us all. 

 

It is impossible to thank everyone individually so please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our thanks and appreciation. 

 

Della’s first anniversary mass will be held in St. Patrick’s Church, Kilmaine, Co. Mayo on Saturday, 17th February 2024 at 10.30am.

 

“Say not in grief that she is no more but say in kindness that she was.”