<p style="margin-left:0px;text-align:justify">Across Ireland, people are taking part in <a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/campaign/rip-ie-remembers">RIP.ie Remembers</a> this March. <a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/the-healing-power-of-walking-how-walking-supports-mental-and-emotional-health-during-grief-326">Walking in memory</a> of their loved ones, raising funds for incredible charities, and contributing to a <a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/planting-hope-how-your-walk-helps-grow-a-greener-future-328">lasting environmental legacy</a>. Many have been <a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/how-to-share-your-story-tips-for-posting-with-ripremembers-327">sharing their stories</a> and progress through the month. A meaningful way to continue to honour the memory of someone special while also allowing others to connect and feel less alone in their times of grief.</p><p style="margin-left:0px;text-align:justify">In the first 2 weeks, we walked 2824 km, planted 276 sq. ft of woodland, and raised over €58,000. Behind these numbers are personal stories and loving moments of remembrance.</p><p style="margin-left:0px;text-align:justify">This article shares a few highlights from the community. These highlights come from participants who chose to share a photo, short clip, or a few words. We are grateful for every story shared so far.</p><p style="margin-left:0px;text-align:justify"> </p><p style="margin-left:0px;text-align:center"><span style="font-size:18px"><strong>Participant Highlights</strong></span></p><figure class="table" style="width:97.56%"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:29.93%"></col><col style="width:70.07%"></col></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:97.95%"><img src="https://img-dedicated.rip.ie/Screenshot_2026-03-16_143909_55c9236ae9a89095da525f42ad23c42d82afa9078b7800ff.png" /><figcaption>Cara Byrne (@thehikepysch) and John Boalnd (@bolandjohn0) sharing a reminder for their evening RIP.ie Remembers walk. Encouraging others to join them and walk in remembrance for loved ones.</figcaption></figure></td><td><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:98.3%"><img src="https://img-dedicated.rip.ie/646401953_1638846300868773_1407584005753316786_n_de537ba792e37f9b0d17e7871dddcd67e30ddef161c99826.jpg" /><figcaption><i>The Hike Psych - Wednesday Wanderers's team gathered in Glencullen for a second walk in remembrance. Thank you for walking. </i>Hike Psych is walking in RIP.ie Remembers to celebrate the memory of Wednesday Wanderers Lost Loved Ones, while raising funds for Barretstown.<br /> </figcaption></figure></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="image"><img src="https://img-dedicated.rip.ie/Screenshot_2026-03-16_143615_f380722ddc945a600ad203f1a8e449cf0df1efc7cd531164.png" /><figcaption><i>Thank you to @conorsclips.andrew for sharing an update from their evening walk. A great turnout and a strong sense of community.</i><br /> </figcaption></figure><figure class="image"><img src="https://img-dedicated.rip.ie/Screenshot_2026-03-16_143422_a681aabfb5a7f88637be465eb8ad44525f87c56bd0776449.png" /><figcaption><i>Sophie Bell (@sophie_bell__) is walking 20 km this March in memory of Harrison. A beautiful way to honour someone who was a big part of her childhood and teenage years.</i></figcaption></figure><figure class="table" style="width:98.04%"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:49.62%"></col><col style="width:50.38%"></col></colgroup><tbody><tr><td><figure class="image image_resized image-style-block-align-right" style="width:76.26%"><img src="https://img-dedicated.rip.ie/Screenshot_2026-03-16_161403_470daee2da5875ac09abbd9ac541fe903f33fb4f789f81dd.png" /><figcaption><i>Thank you to Encore Occasions for sharing next Sunday’s remembrance plan. A performance with an ensemble of 12, followed by the final 8 km of the RIP.ie Remembers Walk.</i></figcaption></figure></td><td><figure class="image image_resized image-style-block-align-left" style="width:76.64%"><img src="https://img-dedicated.rip.ie/Screenshot_2026-03-16_161414_0fc098f4f5527c1227d8b6aa4498a5abe72a3a43d0b305b4.png" /><figcaption><i>An early morning check‑in from Encore Occasions. Walking in remembrance and raising awareness for Breast Cancer Ireland.</i></figcaption></figure></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p> </p><p style="text-align:justify">Thank you for every step and every story. If you would like to share your walk, please post a photo, a short clip or a one-line note. Tag <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rip.ie.official">@RIP.ie.official</a> on Instagram or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RIP.ieDeathNotices/">@RIP.ie</a> on Facebook and use <strong>#RIPRemembers</strong> so we can find it. There is still time to join the RIP.ie Remembers Walk for the rest of March. You can register on our website. Find the link <a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/campaign/rip-ie-remembers/register.html">here</a><a href> </a>to set up your fundraising page today. Thank you for walking, remembering and supporting one another.</p>

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Participant Highlights: Walking Together in Remembrance

<figure class="media"><div data-oembed-url="https://share.transistor.fm/e/025865ee"><div style="position:relative;padding-bottom:390px;height:0"><iframe src="https://share.transistor.fm/e/025865ee" style="position:absolute;width:100%;height:100%;top:0;left:0" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></div></figure><p><strong>Proudly sponsored by An Post Insurance</strong></p><p>The<a href="https://partingwordspodcast.transistor.fm/episodes/episode-3-miriam-o-callaghan-on-anger-faith-and-choosing-joy"> third episode of <i>Parting Words</i>,</a> our new RIP.ie podcast, brings listeners into a conversation that is both deeply personal and unexpectedly uplifting. Broadcaster <a href="https://partingwordspodcast.transistor.fm/episodes/episode-3-miriam-o-callaghan-on-anger-faith-and-choosing-joy">Miriam O’Callaghan</a> joins host Muireann O’Connell to reflect on the two losses that changed the course of her life: the death of her sister Anne at just 33, and the sudden passing of their father only weeks later.</p><p>What unfolds is a conversation filled with honesty, humour and the kind of clarity that only comes from lived experience. Miriam speaks with a gentleness that never hides the truth, and a strength that never slips into hardness.</p><p><strong>“Life doesn’t treat you fairly”</strong></p><p>Miriam recalls the moment she realised how suddenly life can turn. Standing in a hospital lift the day before Anne died, she watched her father whisper, “We’re losing the jewel in our crown.” In that instant, she says, something in her shifted. The belief that good people are somehow protected from tragedy fell away.</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%"><img src="https://img-dedicated.rip.ie/Anne_18d297e22f7aee3446a47b3897a2cc8602f0729fb198ecd1.png" /></figure><p>She speaks openly about the anger that followed — anger at life, and even at God. It’s a rare admission from someone known for her optimism, but it’s delivered without hesitation. “I had never felt anger like it,” she says. “It changed me.”</p><p><strong>A graveside promise</strong></p><p>In the days that followed, Miriam found herself standing at her sister’s grave, making a decision that would shape the rest of her life. “This is it,” she remembers thinking. “Life is not for messing around.” From that moment, she resolved to live fully, love deeply and waste no time on anything that didn’t matter.</p><p>It’s a philosophy that has stayed with her for three decades.</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%"><img src="https://img-dedicated.rip.ie/Miriam_and_Anne__c8d81a0c93af717004b1317d85b5962506c9f0cea4571caa.png" /></figure><p><strong>A refusal to fear death</strong></p><p>One of the most striking moments in the episode comes when Miriam talks about her own mortality. She simply doesn’t think about it. “Why would I waste one second thinking about dying,” she says, “when I can spend all day loving my life?”</p><p>It’s not denial. It’s perspective — the kind that comes from surviving the unimaginable and choosing joy anyway.</p><figure class="media"><div data-oembed-url="https://youtu.be/XronOU4oJeU"><div style="position:relative;padding-bottom:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56.2493%"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XronOU4oJeU" style="position:absolute;width:100%;height:100%;top:0;left:0" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></figure><p><strong>Light, laughter and the everyday moments that carry us</strong></p><p>Despite the heaviness of the subject, the episode is full of warmth. Miriam laughs as she remembers sneaking a healer into a hospital room late at night, and the chaos of raising six little girls between two sisters. She speaks about the small signs she still feels from Anne and her father, and the belief that they “had a hand” in bringing her husband Steve into her life.</p><p>Muireann O’Connell guides the conversation with sensitivity and ease, creating space for both the heartbreak and the humour that sit side by side in grief.</p><p><strong>A poem for Ireland</strong></p><p>The episode closes with a piece of poetry from writer Gerard Devine, reflecting on what it means to be Irish — the history we inherit, the blessings hidden in ordinary days, and the quiet rituals that bind us together in loss and remembrance. It offers a moment of grounding after Miriam’s story, reminding listeners that grief is both deeply personal and part of a shared cultural thread.</p><p><strong>A community response that means everything</strong></p><p>We’ve been genuinely moved by the response to <i>Parting Words</i> so far. Listeners have shared how the conversations help them feel seen in their own grief, and how comforting it is to hear familiar Irish voices speak so openly about love, loss and resilience.</p><p>As our Digital Content Editor, Mairead Neary, puts it:</p><p>“This podcast was created for the community, and it’s clear the community has embraced it with real heart. We are especially delighted to have Miriam O’Callaghan join us for this episode. Her honesty, humour and willingness to speak openly about anger, faith and love have resonated deeply.”</p><h3 style="margin-left:0px"><strong>About the Sponsor: An Post Insurance</strong></h3><p style="margin-left:0px"><i>Parting Words </i>is proudly sponsored by<a href="https://www.anpostinsurance.ie/life-insurance/funeral-insurance"><u> An Post Insurance</u></a>. The partnership reflects the company’s commitment to supporting people as they prepare thoughtfully and compassionately for life’s most difficult moments. The podcast aligns naturally with An Post Insurance’s funeral insurance product, which helps individuals plan ahead and ease the financial burden on loved ones during times of loss.</p><p style="margin-left:0px">Paul Grimes, Managing Director at An Post Insurance, said the series resonates deeply with their values: <i>“Parting Words is a beautifully crafted series that treats grief with sensitivity, warmth, and authenticity. It aligns perfectly with our funeral insurance product, which helps people plan ahead and protect their loved ones when it matters most. We’re proud to support a project that encourages meaningful conversations around remembrance, resilience, and the bonds that connect us.”</i></p><p style="margin-left:0px">One Direct (Ireland) Limited, trading as An Post Insurance, is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of An Post and is a tied agent of New Ireland Assurance Company plc for life assurance business. Funeral Insurance policies are underwritten and provided by New Ireland Assurance Company plc.</p><p style="margin-left:0px"><strong>Listen to </strong><i><strong>Parting Words</strong></i><strong> on all major </strong><a href="https://partingwordspodcast.transistor.fm/"><strong><u>podcast platforms</u></strong></a><strong> and watch full episodes on </strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XronOU4oJeU&amp;t"><strong><u>YouTube</u></strong></a><strong>.</strong></p>

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“Life Is Not for Messing Around”: Miriam O’Callaghan on Loss, Anger, Faith and Choosing Joy

<p><i><strong>For twenty years, RIP.ie has been a place where Irish people gather in moments of loss, solidarity, and</strong></i><a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/campaign/rip-ie-remembers"><i><strong> remembrance.</strong></i></a><i><strong> In marking this anniversary, we wanted to pause and listen, really listen, to what people across the country feel about funerals, grief, and the rituals that shape how we say goodbye.</strong></i></p><p>More than 3,300 people responded to our nationwide survey, sharing not just opinions but memories, frustrations, hopes, and deeply personal reflections. What emerged is a portrait of a country that is changing but still rooted in tradition, a people who value honesty, connection, and the right to honour their loved ones in their own words.</p><h3>A clear message on eulogies: let families speak</h3><p>One finding stood out above all others: <strong>92 percent of adults in Ireland believe every family should have the right to </strong><a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/how-to-write-a-eulogy-a-guide-to-creating-a-meaningful-tribute-290"><strong>deliver a eulogy </strong></a><strong>at a funeral mass</strong>. In Munster, that figure rose to 95 percent. For an issue that has caused tension in some dioceses, the public sentiment is unmistakable. Families want, and need, the chance to speak.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://img-dedicated.rip.ie/image_620cc5de9602f3cc526ec7bc684dbc00e027ec1885a3c27b.png" /></figure><p>As one of the strongest majorities in the entire survey, this result reflects something deeper than preference. It speaks to the Irish instinct to honour our dead through story, humour, memory, and truth. And while respondents were clear that eulogies should be short, most favouring under ten minutes, the principle matters more than the timing. People want space to say goodbye in their own voice.</p><h3>Funerals as celebration, but tradition still holds its place</h3><p>Ireland’s relationship with funerals is evolving but not abandoning its roots. Eighty‑three percent believe a funeral should be a celebration of life. Yet almost one in five still prefer a more traditional, sombre approach, with a similar number saying black should always be worn. In Tipperary, those<a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/customs-and-traditions-of-an-irish-wake-283"> traditional instincts</a> are even stronger.</p><p>This duality is part of who we are. We laugh through tears. We honour the old ways while making room for the new. We gather for three days, a rhythm 84 percent of people say feels “about right”, and we show up for one another in numbers that would be unthinkable elsewhere. Kerry people, for example, attend the most funerals in the country, averaging more than six in the past year.</p><h3>Grief is becoming more open, but not for everyone</h3><p>One of the most striking tensions in the survey lies in how we <a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/7-simple-ways-to-be-kind-to-yourself-while-you-are-grieving-307">talk about grief</a>. Ninety‑one percent believe Ireland is becoming more open about death and loss. Yet when asked whether grief is still considered a private matter, the country split almost exactly down the middle: <strong>52 percent said yes and 48 percent said no</strong>.</p><p>This tells us something important. While many feel freer to speak about grief, others still carry it quietly. The shift is happening, but unevenly. And that is why spaces of compassion, community, and conversation matter more than ever.</p><h3>What we believe, and what we wonder</h3><p>Ireland’s spiritual landscape is changing but belief remains a powerful thread. <strong>Sixty‑five percent believe in Heaven, 52 percent in an afterlife for the soul, and 14 percent in reincarnation</strong>. Only 16 percent believe in Hell, the same number who believe in none of the listed afterlife options. And yes, 12 percent believe in ghosts.</p><p>These numbers do not just reflect theology. They reflect curiosity, comfort, and the enduring human need to make sense of loss.</p><h3>Music, memory, and the moments that stay with us</h3><p>When we asked people to share their most memorable funeral moments, the responses were extraordinary, tender, funny, surprising, and deeply Irish. <a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/8-irish-songs-that-bring-comfort-after-loss-308">Music </a>featured again and again:</p><blockquote><p>My father was a fisherman, and the <i>Lonesome Boatman</i> was played graveside. It was so touching, a very special moment.</p></blockquote><blockquote><p><i>Highway to Hell</i> played as the coffin left the church. The parish priest played it for his close friend.”</p></blockquote><blockquote><p>The local school choir sang <i>Always Look on the Bright Side of Life</i>. The laughter and joy reverberated around the church.</p></blockquote><p>These stories remind us that funerals are not just rituals. They are acts of love. They are the final gift we give someone, shaped by who they were and how they lived.</p><h3>Parting Words, and the conversations Ireland is ready for</h3><p>As part of our twentieth anniversary, RIP.ie launched <a href="https://rip.ie/podcast/introducing-parting-words-a-new-ripie-podcast-on-love-loss-and-the-stories-that-stay-with-us-329"><i>Parting Words</i></a>, a new podcast hosted by Muireann O Connell. The conversations in Season One echo many of the themes uncovered in this survey. Guests speak openly about love, loss, and the lessons grief has carved into their lives. They talk about the moments that broke them and the moments that carried them, and they do so with the honesty and humour that feel unmistakably Irish.</p><figure class="media"><div data-oembed-url="https://youtu.be/qyeJsCh7cZE?si=gqXK0DmkPTs2eiTI"><div style="position:relative;padding-bottom:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56.2493%"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qyeJsCh7cZE" style="position:absolute;width:100%;height:100%;top:0;left:0" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></figure><p>In a country where people are becoming more willing to talk about death, but where many still feel grief is private, <i>Parting Words</i> offers something rare. It gives people permission to speak. It shows that grief is not a weakness and that remembering someone out loud can be a powerful act of healing. The podcast is already becoming a companion for those who are grieving and a gentle guide for those who want to understand grief better.</p><h3>Supporting people through grief</h3><p>The survey makes one thing clear. People want support, understanding, and connection when they are grieving. They want traditions that anchor them, and they want space to express their loss in ways that feel personal and true. At RIP.ie, we see this every day in the condolence messages left by neighbours, friends, and strangers who simply want to offer comfort.</p><p>Our role has always been to support families at one of the hardest moments of their lives. That support now extends beyond notices and condolences. It includes resources on grief, guidance on planning, and initiatives like<a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/campaign/rip-ie-remembers"> RIP.ie Remembers</a>, which invites people to walk in memory of someone they love. It includes the stories shared in <i>Parting Words</i>, and the community that forms quietly around each episode.</p><figure class="media"><div data-oembed-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQvLMkz0B1E"><div style="position:relative;padding-bottom:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56.2493%"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yQvLMkz0B1E" style="position:absolute;width:100%;height:100%;top:0;left:0" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></figure><p>Grief will always be deeply personal, but it does not have to be solitary. The more we talk about it, the more we understand it, and the more we can support one another through it.</p><h3>A country that shows up</h3><p>Perhaps the most powerful message from this survey is that funerals still matter deeply to Irish people. Wakes, months minds, graveside gatherings, 95 percent say these traditions remain important. In an age of fast communication and fragmented communities, the Irish funeral endures as one of the last places where neighbours, friends, and extended family still come together in person.</p><p>It is a testament to who we are: a people who show up, who stand together, who believe that every life deserves to be marked and remembered.</p><h3>Looking ahead</h3><p>As RIP.ie enters its third decade, these findings will help guide our work, from supporting families in grief to shaping national conversations about how we honour the dead. They also remind us that while customs may evolve, the heart of the Irish funeral remains unchanged: community, compassion, and the simple act of being there.</p><p>In listening to thousands of voices across the country, one truth became clear. How we say goodbye says everything about how we live. And in Ireland, we still choose to live, and grieve, together.</p><p> </p>

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What Ireland Really Thinks About Funerals, And What That Says About Us

<p>For twenty years, we at RIP.ie have walked alongside families and communities during some of the hardest moments life brings. It has been a privilege, and it has shaped who we are as an organisation. As we reach this milestone, we wanted to mark it in a way that feels true to the heart of RIP.ie: remembrance, connection and community.</p><p>That is why we created the <a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/campaign/rip-ie-remembers">RIP.ie Remembers Walk</a>, an invitation to walk 20 kilometres during March in memory of someone special.</p><h3>How It All Began</h3><p>RIP.ie started with a simple idea from siblings Jay and Dympna Coleman, rooted in everyday family life. In 2005, Dympna was living abroad, and like so many Irish people living away, she often rang home to find out who had died locally. There was no central place to check, no easy way to stay connected to the news that mattered most to her family.</p><p>That gap sparked an idea. What began as a practical solution quickly grew into something much bigger, becoming a trusted space where people could come together to pay respects, share condolences and honour loved ones.</p><p>By 2021, the site was receiving around 250,000 visits per day and more than 50 million page views per month. Those numbers reflect something deeper: a community that values connection and remembrance, and a place people turn to when they need it most.</p><h3>A Changing Ireland, A Steady Presence</h3><p>The COVID‑19 pandemic was one of the most significant periods in our history. With restrictions on funeral attendance, families turned to online condolences in unprecedented numbers. RIP.ie became a vital outlet for connection when physical gathering was impossible.</p><p>During this time, the Central Statistics Office used RIP.ie to help calculate excess mortality, recognising the platform’s unique role in documenting deaths across the country. It was a reminder of the responsibility we hold and the trust people place in us.</p><h3>A New Chapter</h3><p>In 2024, RIP.ie became part of The Irish Times Group, a step that ensures long‑term stability and continued investment in our mission. Since then, we have continued to evolve in ways that support families not only at the moment of loss but throughout the wider journey of grief.</p><p>We have introduced new <a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support">grief support sections</a> on the site, offering clear, compassionate guidance for people who may be navigating loss for the first time or returning to it after many years. These include articles written by experts in bereavement, psychology and end‑of‑life care, as well as practical pieces on topics like planning, coping and supporting others.</p><p>In January 2026, we launched our first podcast, <a href="https://rip.ie/podcast/introducing-parting-words-a-new-ripie-podcast-on-love-loss-and-the-stories-that-stay-with-us-329"><i>Parting Words</i></a>, which brings together voices from across Ireland to share stories, insights and reflections on grief, remembrance and the ways we stay connected to those we have lost.</p><p>Through all of this, we remain committed to the values that shaped RIP.ie from the beginning: compassion, clarity and community.</p><h3>Marking 20 Years Through the <a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/campaign/rip-ie-remembers">RIP.ie Remembers Walk</a></h3><p>As we approached our 20‑year milestone, we spent a lot of time thinking about how best to acknowledge it. We knew it needed to be meaningful and accessible, something that invited people to remember in their own way. Walking felt right. Walking gives us space to think, to breathe, to remember and to feel close to those we have lost.</p><p>The RIP.ie Remembers Walk invites people across Ireland and beyond to walk 20 kilometres during March, at their own pace and in their own time. There is no race and no pressure. It is simply an opportunity to honour someone special.</p><p>People can walk alone, with family or as part of a group. They can choose a place that holds meaning, whether that is a favourite beach, a quiet country road or a local park.</p><h3>A Living Tribute</h3><p>Every registrant who fundraises can dedicate one square foot of native Irish woodland in memory of their loved one. These trees will be planted in a remembrance woodland in Carlow, creating a lasting tribute rooted in Ireland’s natural landscape. Our partnership with the Native Woodland Trust ensures that each dedication becomes part of something living and enduring.</p><h3>With Síle Seoige as Ambassador</h3><p>We are honoured to have broadcaster and wellness advocate Síle Seoige leading the campaign. She brings warmth, empathy and a deep understanding of grief. She describes the walk as <i>“a beautiful way to honour those we have lost while supporting others who are navigating their own journey through grief.”</i> Her voice adds something special to this initiative.</p><figure class="media"><div data-oembed-url="https://youtu.be/yQvLMkz0B1E?si=C5Z0XDaefT8Uv_0m"><div style="position:relative;padding-bottom:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56.2493%"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yQvLMkz0B1E" style="position:absolute;width:100%;height:100%;top:0;left:0" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></figure><h3>How to Take Part</h3><p>Registration is open at <a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/campaign/rip-ie-remembers">ripremembers.rip.ie</a>.</p><p>Participants can:</p><ul><li>Walk 20km during March</li><li>Dedicate their walk to someone they have lost</li><li>Fundraise for a charity of their choice</li><li>Create or join a group page</li><li>Receive a personalised certificate</li><li>Contribute to native woodland planting</li></ul><h3>A Collective Act of Remembrance</h3><p>Twenty years on, RIP.ie remains a place where memories live, where communities gather and where love endures. The <a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/campaign/rip-ie-remembers">RIP.ie Remembers Walk</a> is our way of honouring that legacy. It is an invitation to pause, to reflect and to walk in memory of those who shaped us.</p><p><strong>Every step becomes a tribute. Every kilometre becomes a story. Together, we create a national movement of remembrance.</strong></p>

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20 Years of RIP.ie: A Journey of Connection and Community

<p>Sharing a memory, photo, or tribute can be a meaningful way to honour someone you’ve loved and to connect with others who understand the importance of remembrance. As part of the <a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/campaign/rip-ie-remembers">RIP.ie Remembers Walk</a>, we invite participants and supporters to share their stories using #RIPRemembers, creating a collective space of reflection and community.</p><h3>What You Might Like to Share</h3><p>You can post whatever feels right for you, including:</p><ul><li>A photo of your loved one or a place that reminds you of them</li><li>A few words about who they were and what they meant to you</li><li>A picture or short video from your walk</li><li>A symbol of remembrance, such as flowers, candles, handwritten notes, or meaningful objects</li></ul><p>Some people might choose to share a single sentence; others write more. Both are equally meaningful.</p><h3>How to Upload Your Tribute</h3><h4><a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/campaign/rip-ie-remembers/register.html">On Your Fundraising Page</a></h4><ul><li>Write a few sentences about who they were and what made them special.</li><li>Share why they mattered to you and why you're walking in their memory.</li><li>Keep it simple, 2-3 heartfelt sentences are more than enough.</li><li>Share your page with family and friends so they can read your story and offer their support.</li></ul><h4>On Social Media </h4><ul><li>Post your photo, video, or message on Facebook or Instagram.</li><li>Include the hashtag #RIPRemembers so your tribute can be part of the wider remembrance community.</li><li>If you wish, tag RIP.ie to help us reshare and amplify your message.</li></ul><h3>Why Your Story Matters</h3><p>By sharing your story, you:</p><ul><li>Help create a space of compassion and understanding</li><li>Let others know they’re not alone in their grief</li><li>Honour the life and memory of someone special</li><li>Help raise awareness and support for charities that care for people when they need it most.</li></ul><p>Together, these shared moments form a powerful collective remembrance of love, life, and legacy.</p><h3><a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/campaign/rip-ie-remembers">Join the #RIPRemembers Community</a></h3><p>Whether you share a photo, a sentence, or simply follow along, you are part of something meaningful. Each story adds to a wider expression of remembrance and hope. </p><p>When you're ready, share your tribute using #RIPRemembers and walk with us in memory.</p>

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How to Share Your Story: Tips for Posting with #RIPRemembers

<p>Grief is a deeply personal journey, often accompanied by feelings of heaviness, fatigue, and emotional chaos. During such times, even simple daily tasks can feel overwhelming. While there is no “right” way to grieve, research and professional insights increasingly highlight the healing potential of movement, particularly walking, as a gentle and accessible way to support mental and emotional well-being.</p><p>Insights from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bolandjohn0/">John Boland</a> at <a href="https://www.getirelandwalking.ie/">Get Ireland Walking</a> highlight how walking can be a simple yet profoundly supportive practice during times of loss, helping individuals process emotions, stay grounded, and connect with their own wellbeing.</p><h3>How Walking Supports Mental and Emotional Health</h3><p>From a mental health perspective, walking has powerful effects on the brain and nervous system. Regular walking increases endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin, chemicals that support mood, motivation, and emotional regulation. At the same time, steady, rhythmic walking helps regulate cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, particularly when walking is calm rather than rushed.</p><p>Large studies consistently show that walking reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, which is why walking is recommended by health organisations such as the NHS and the World Health Organisation as a first-line activity for mental wellbeing.</p><p>Walking also supports the nervous system. Gentle, repetitive movement helps shift the body out of a “fight or flight” state and into a calmer “rest and digest” mode. This can reduce emotional reactivity, improve sleep, and make intense feelings feel more manageable.</p><p>Cognitively, walking supports emotional processing. The natural left-right rhythm of walking stimulates both sides of the brain, helping with memory integration and emotional regulation. Many people find that their thoughts feel clearer, less repetitive, and easier to tolerate while walking than when sitting still.</p><h3>Why Walking Can Be Especially Supportive During Grief</h3><p>Grief often involves emotional extremes,<a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/when-everything-feels-overwhelming-one-breath-at-a-time-237"> feeling overwhelmed</a> one moment and <a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/when-you-feel-numb-or-disconnected-one-breath-at-a-time-274">emotionally numb</a> the next. Gentle forward movement can feel supportive rather than confrontational, allowing emotions to move and change without being forced.</p><p>Walking also reduces pressure to talk. Moving side-by-side, rather than face-to-face, can make it easier to sit with silence, cry without feeling observed, or speak in fragments rather than full explanations. This can be especially helpful for people who feel emotionally flooded or shut down.</p><p>Many people also find that memories surface gradually while walking, often feeling less intense than deliberate reflection. While walking is not a replacement for therapy in cases of traumatic or prolonged grief, it can be a valuable companion to other forms of support.</p><h3>The Role of Nature </h3><p>When possible, walking outdoors can further enhance emotional well-being. Research shows that walking in green or blue spaces is associated with reduced rumination, lower perceived stress, and improved mood and attention. Simply engaging the senses, noticing light, sound, air, and movement, can help people feel more grounded and connected to the present moment.</p><h3>Practical Way to Use Walking for Emotional Well-being </h3><ul style="list-style-type:disc"><li>Start with intention, not distance: Mental health benefits do not require long or fast walks. Ten to fifteen minutes at a comfortable pace can be enough.</li></ul><ul><li>Match the walk to how you feel:<ul style="list-style-type:circle"><li>If anxious or overwhelmed, choose a slow, rhythmic pace.</li><li>If feeling low or lethargic, a slightly brisk walk in daylight can help.</li></ul></li><li>Use sensory grounding: Notice what you can see, hear, and physically feel to stay present.</li><li>Walk alone or with someone safe: Walking alone can foster reflection, while walking with others can support connection without pressure.</li></ul><h3>A Gentle Way Forward</h3><p>As we celebrate the <a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/campaign/rip-ie-remembers">RIP.ie 20th anniversary</a> in 2026, it is a time to reflect on the <a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/7-simple-ways-to-be-kind-to-yourself-while-you-are-grieving-307">ways we look after ourselves</a> and each other through life’s challenges. Walking may be a simple act, but it offers deep support for navigating grief and finding moments of peace. Each step is a small, yet meaningful gesture toward healing and an act of care for the mind and body.</p><p> </p>

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The Healing Power of Walking: How Walking Supports Mental and Emotional Health During Grief

<p><span style="color:black"><strong>Proudly sponsored by An Post Insurance</strong></span></p><figure class="media"><div data-oembed-url="https://share.transistor.fm/e/3c3b8c6e"><div style="position:relative;padding-bottom:390px;height:0"><iframe src="https://share.transistor.fm/e/3c3b8c6e" style="position:absolute;width:100%;height:100%;top:0;left:0" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></div></figure><p> </p><p>Every day on RIP.ie, families share memories of the people they have loved and lost. Through leaving condolences, we see stories filled with humour, heartbreak, resilience, and the quiet moments that define a life. These stories remind us that grief is not only about endings; it is also about connection, legacy, and the ways love continues.</p><p>Today, we are honoured to introduce a new space for these conversations: <strong>our brand‑new podcast, </strong><a href="https://partingwordspodcast.transistor.fm/"><i><strong>Parting Words</strong></i></a><strong>.</strong></p><figure class="media"><div data-oembed-url="https://youtu.be/GidMefbW6M8?si=AOu7H3xB1bgA3kDb"><div style="position:relative;padding-bottom:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56.2493%"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GidMefbW6M8" style="position:absolute;width:100%;height:100%;top:0;left:0" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></figure><p><strong>Why We Created </strong><i><strong>Parting Words</strong></i></p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%"><img src="https://img-dedicated.rip.ie/RIP_ie_Podcast_LOGO_-_v3_-_LRG_b569d6deae714edf8a207679e60d389227d2da3f7d25f41b.png" /></figure><p>Grief touches every family, yet it can feel incredibly isolating. People often struggle to find the right words, or to know whether what they’re feeling is “normal.” But when someone shares their experience openly, it can offer comfort, clarity, and a sense of companionship.</p><p><i>Parting Words</i> was created to bring those voices together.</p><p>Across the series, guests speak candidly about love, loss, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. These are not stories about death — they are stories about life, courage, and the bonds that endure long after someone has passed.</p><p><strong>Meet the Host: Muireann O’Connell</strong></p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%"><img src="https://img-dedicated.rip.ie/Head_and_Shoulders_Muireann_64b7fbf113fa3d7b3b8b060e5c6b55aece7ae557331bfe2d.jpg" /></figure><p>Guiding each conversation is <strong>Muireann O’Connell</strong>, one of Ireland’s most engaging and empathetic broadcasters. Known for her warmth, humour, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life, Muireann brings a gentle steadiness to each episode.</p><p>She listens deeply, asks the questions that matter, and creates a space where guests feel safe to share the most personal parts of their journey.</p><p><strong>Episode One: Colm Hayes on Love, Loss, and Living Through Grief</strong></p><p>Our first episode features a voice familiar to listeners across the country: <strong>Colm Hayes</strong>, a legend of Irish radio whose career spans pirate stations, FM104, 2FM, Radio Nova and Classic Hits.</p><p>But this conversation is not about radio. It is about Colm’s beloved wife, Anne.</p><p>In September 2025, Colm shared that Anne had passed away after a six‑year battle with breast cancer. In this moving and intimate episode, he reflects on:</p><ul><li>how they lived with cancer while still protecting joy and normality</li><li>the strength and humour that defined Anne</li><li>the shock of grief, even when you think you’re prepared</li><li>the small rituals and supports that help him navigate life without her</li></ul><p>Colm speaks with honesty, tenderness, and a love that is felt in every moment of the conversation. The episode offers comfort, insight, and a reminder that grief is not something to “get over” — it is something we learn to carry.</p><p>We won’t give away the full conversation here, but listeners can expect a powerful, heartfelt start to the series.</p><p><strong>A Six‑Part Season</strong></p><p>Season 1 of <i>Parting Words</i> is a six‑episode series. A new episode will be released each month, with every guest offering a different perspective on grief, remembrance, and the enduring ties that shape our lives.</p><p>Our hope is that these conversations help people feel supported, understood, and connected, wherever they are on their own path through loss.</p><h3><strong>About the Sponsor: An Post Insurance</strong></h3><p>Parting Words is proudly sponsored by<a href="https://www.anpostinsurance.ie/life-insurance/funeral-insurance"> An Post Insurance</a>. The partnership reflects the company’s commitment to supporting people as they prepare thoughtfully and compassionately for life’s most difficult moments. The podcast aligns naturally with An Post Insurance’s funeral insurance product, which helps individuals plan ahead and ease the financial burden on loved ones during times of loss.</p><p>Paul Grimes, Managing Director at An Post Insurance, said the series resonates deeply with their values: <i>“Parting Words is a beautifully crafted series that treats grief with sensitivity, warmth, and authenticity. It aligns perfectly with our funeral insurance product, which helps people plan ahead and protect their loved ones when it matters most. We’re proud to support a project that encourages meaningful conversations around remembrance, resilience, and the bonds that connect us.”</i></p><p>One Direct (Ireland) Limited, trading as An Post Insurance, is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of An Post and is a tied agent of New Ireland Assurance Company plc for life assurance business. Funeral Insurance policies are underwritten and provided by New Ireland Assurance Company plc.</p><p><strong>Listen to </strong><i><strong>Parting Words</strong></i><strong> on all major </strong><a href="https://partingwordspodcast.transistor.fm/"><strong>podcast platforms</strong></a><strong> and watch full episodes on </strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GidMefbW6M8"><strong>YouTube</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p><p> </p>

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Introducing Parting Words: A New RIP.ie Podcast on Love, Loss, and the Stories That Stay With Us

<p><strong>Every step has meaning. Every walk tells a story.</strong></p><p>The idea for the<a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/"> RIP.ie Remembers Walk</a> began with a simple question: <i>How can we celebrate this 20-year milestone in a way that truly reflects what RIP.ie stands for?</i> For two decades, RIP.ie has been more than a website; it has been a place where Ireland comes together to pay respects, share condolences, and honour loved ones. In times of grief, it has offered comfort and connection, helping families and communities feel less alone.</p><p>As we looked ahead to this anniversary, we wanted to build on that sense of community and bring the online platform into the real world. The answer came in the form of something simple yet deeply meaningful: walking.</p><figure class="media"><div data-oembed-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQvLMkz0B1E&amp;t=10s"><div style="position:relative;padding-bottom:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56.2493%"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yQvLMkz0B1E?start=10" style="position:absolute;width:100%;height:100%;top:0;left:0" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></figure><h3>Why Walking?</h3><p>Walking has long been associated with reflection and healing. There’s something profoundly calming about moving through nature, green fields, quiet paths, the sound of water or birdsong. For many, these walks become moments of connection with those who have passed away: a time to think about them, to remember their stories, and even to speak to them in our hearts.</p><p>This sense of peace and renewal inspired the RIP.ie Remembers Walk. It’s not about speed or competition. It’s about creating space to honour someone special and to carry their memory forward.</p><h3>A Walk With Purpose</h3><p>The<a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/"> RIP.ie Remembers Walk</a> invites everyone to take 20 kilometers during March—at your own pace, in your own way.</p><ul><li>Dedicate your walk to someone you’ve lost. Make it a personal tribute.</li><li>Fundraise for a charity close to your heart. Turn remembrance into action.</li><li>Help new life take root. For every fundraising registrant, RIP.ie will plant native woodland in Carlow, creating a lasting legacy of hope.</li></ul><h3>Together, Across Ireland and Beyond</h3><p>Whether you walk alone, with family, or as part of a group, you’ll be joining thousands of others who share the same purpose: to remember, to connect, and to give back.</p><p>This March, let’s walk for those who shaped our lives. Let’s walk for those we’ll never forget.</p><p><a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/">Register today at RIP.ie</a> and be part of a nationwide movement of remembrance, hope, and community.</p><p><strong>Sign Up Here: </strong><a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/"><strong>https://ripremembers.rip.ie/</strong></a></p>

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Why We Walk: The Story Behind RIP.ie Remembers

<p><strong>Every step tells a story. A chance to pause, to honour, to remember.</strong></p><p>This March, RIP.ie invites you to take part in something truly special: the <a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/"><strong>RIP.ie Remembers Walk – 20km for 20 Years</strong></a>. This nationwide initiative marks two decades of connection, remembrance, and community.</p><p><strong>SIGN UP HERE:</strong><a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/"><strong> </strong>https://ripremembers.rip.ie/</a></p><figure class="media"><div data-oembed-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQvLMkz0B1E"><div style="position:relative;padding-bottom:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56.2493%"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yQvLMkz0B1E" style="position:absolute;width:100%;height:100%;top:0;left:0" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></figure><h3>Celebrating 20 Years of RIP.ie</h3><p>For 20 years, RIP.ie has been a cornerstone of Irish life. It’s a place where we come together to pay respects, share condolences, and honour the memory of loved ones. In times of grief, it has provided a space for families, friends, and communities to connect and support one another.</p><p>This anniversary is more than a milestone; it’s a tribute to the role RIP.ie has played in bringing people together during life’s most difficult moments. Now, we’re bringing that spirit into the real world. The RIP.ie Remembers Walk is a way to transform remembrance into action, creating a living tribute to those we’ve lost.</p><h3>What Is the RIP.ie Remembers Walk?</h3><p>The concept is simple but deeply meaningful:</p><ul><li>Walk 20 kilometers during March, at your own pace, anywhere you choose.</li><li>Walk in memory of someone special a loved one whose life you want to honour.</li><li>Walk alone or with a group, making it a shared moment of reflection and connection.</li></ul><p>This is not about speed or competition. It’s about taking time to remember and celebrate the lives that shaped us.</p><h3>Why Take Part?</h3><p>Every step is a tribute. Every registration is an act of remembrance. And every fundraising effort helps create hope for others.</p><ul><li>Choose a charity close to your heart and raise funds in honour of your loved one.</li></ul><ul style="list-style-type:disc"><li>For every registrant who fundraises, RIP.ie will plant one foot of native woodland in our dedicated Remembrance Woodland in Carlow, creating new life and a lasting legacy.</li></ul><h3>How to Register</h3><p>Signing up is easy:</p><ol><li>Click<a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/"> here </a>to sign up.</li><li>Register as an individual or create a group page for family and friends.</li><li>Dedicate your walk to someone you’ve lost and share their story.</li><li>Select a charity to support in their memory.</li></ol><h3>Fundraising Options</h3><p>Your walk can make a real difference. By fundraising for charities that support bereavement, health, and community services, you help turn grief into purpose and remembrance into action.</p><h3>Join Us</h3><p>This March, let’s walk together across Ireland and beyond to honour those we’ve lost and support those who remember.</p><p><br /><a href="https://ripremembers.rip.ie/">Register today </a>at RIP.ie and be part of a nationwide movement of remembrance, hope, and community.</p>

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RIP.ie Remembers Walk: What It Is and How to Register

<p>An<a href="https://rip.ie/legal-and-financial-advice/youve-been-named-executor-in-a-will-what-to-do-next-265"> Executor</a> is the person named in the <a href="https://rip.ie/legal-and-financial-advice/why-make-a-will-254">will</a> of a deceased person, who is expected to carry out the wishes of the deceased after their death. Their responsibilities include dealing with the assets of the estate and distributing them according to the wishes expressed in the will.</p><p>Very often, probate – the legal process of validating a person’s will – will be needed if there is any real estate involved or financial assets in excess of a certain value.</p><p>It can be challenging if you are an interested party and the executor is not doing anything with the estate. In this case, and assuming they are not communicating with you, either directly or through the estate solicitors, you should consider retaining legal representation to take legal steps on your behalf to ensure that the administration of the estate progresses.</p><p>Very often a letter from a solicitor can help. This letter can be written to the executor reminding them of their duty to deal with the administration of the estate. And it can have the desired effect of prompting them into action.</p><p>However, in some cases an application may have to be made to the court to either remove the executor or to revoke the grant of probate (if one has already been granted and the executor is not finishing the job).</p><h2>Matters to Consider Before Taking Action</h2><p><strong>Executor’s Year</strong><br />No legal proceedings can be taken against the executor until 12 months after the date of death. This is known as the ‘Executor’s Year’.</p><p><strong>Who Can Take Action?</strong><br />Only an interested party can take action to remove an executor. An interested party is a beneficiary of the estate, a creditor, or a co-executor (if there is more than one executor named).</p><p><strong>Multiple Executors</strong><br />Not all executors have to act. If there is more than one executor appointed, and the executor who is doing nothing has not even started dealing with the estate, the other executor or executors can administer the estate without the executor who is doing nothing. The inactive executor should be invited to reserve or renounce their position before the other executor steps in.</p><p><strong>Executor Unable to Act</strong><br />If an executor is unable to act due to disability, then there is a procedure to have that executor removed and an alternative appointed.</p><p><strong>Legal Advice</strong><br />If you end up having to take legal advice to assist with this issue, your solicitor will explore all options with you. Legal action is usually taken as a last resort – and only if the matter cannot be resolved in any other way.</p><h3>In Summary</h3><p>If the executor is not fulfilling their role, and you are a beneficiary of the estate or an interested party, there are various steps you can take to get help to address the issue. Seek help from a solicitor and they will assist you through the various steps as outlined above.</p><p><i>Ciara O’Callaghan is a solicitor and member of the Law Society’s Probate Committee.</i></p><h3>Disclaimer</h3><p>Please note that this article is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be legal advice. While every care has been taken in its production, no legal responsibility or liability is accepted, warranted, or implied by the author, publishers, or the Law Society of Ireland in respect of any errors, omissions, or misstatement. Readers are advised to seek independent professional legal advice before acting on anything in this article.</p>

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The Executor Named in the Will Is Doing Nothing: What Next?

<p>When <a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/soothing-a-broken-heart-a-childs-journey-through-grief-and-healing-223">children experience the loss of a loved one</a>, they may struggle to make sense of what has happened or explain how they feel. Books can offer a supportive way to guide them through grief. Through stories, children gain reassurance, understanding, and language to describe their emotions. Reading together provides a comforting space for questions and shared memories, making books a valuable resource for families navigating loss.</p><h4><strong>What Children Need When Coping with Grief</strong></h4><p>When children are dealing with grief, they need a sense of stability and safety. <a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/how-children-understand-death-age-appropriate-support-for-grieving-233">They benefit from clear, honest explanations about what has happened</a>, along with reassurance that any feelings they experience are completely normal. Books can aid in validating these feelings, introduce coping strategies, and gently open a conversation about life, death, and remembrance.</p><h3><strong>Recommended Books</strong></h3><p><a href="https://sarahcorbettlynch.ie/product/noodle-loses-dad/"><strong>Noodles Loses Dad by Sarah Corbett Lynch</strong></a></p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:26.77%"><img src="https://img-dedicated.rip.ie/image_48565f0d44d816fe7c62bee72c02c4b7a1a61165b20be199.png" /></figure><p> A story from the <i>Boogawooga</i> series that follows Noodle as she navigates the loss of someone very important in her life. Through Noodle and her brother’s journey, children are gently introduced to themes of grief, change, and resilience. The book encourages young readers to explore their emotions, find courage, and discover hope, making it a comforting and empowering read for children experiencing loss.</p><p> </p><p><a href="https://www.easons.com/badgers-parting-gifts-susan-varley-9781849395144?srsltid=AfmBOopk6gyiBXLeYPxsf9ZLBeCLAkyOshXpWSO3PCRPIqgPsnTEuEft"><strong>Badger’s Parting Gifts by Susan Varley</strong></a></p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:30.98%"><img src="https://img-dedicated.rip.ie/image_911b78f5547f70548d27ec53efcae2cae3d08bca1fa98a38.png" alt="A book cover of a book

AI-generated content may be incorrect." /></figure><p>This gentle, heart-warming story follows Badger and his friends, showing how love and memories can continue even after someone has gone. With warm illustrations and a simple narrative, it <a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/helping-a-child-cope-with-sudden-death-guidance-for-parents-and-carers-297">helps children understand loss</a>, express their feelings, and remember the positive impact loved ones have on their lives. The book is a comforting way to start conversations about grief, encouraging reflection, storytelling, and emotional connection in a supportive, reassuring way.</p><p><br /><a href="https://www.easons.com/ava-and-the-acorn-lu-fraser-9781408366943?srsltid=AfmBOoqzIeeqWX4nPSPqm6Ii98IW6_vBMkawms_Gg3F9bA-88o5aWW6e"><strong>Ava and the Acorn by Lu Fraser</strong></a><i> </i></p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:28.55%"><img src="https://img-dedicated.rip.ie/image_55c9030de06a8dcd07d842de4241210f5cdadda4b7a67cad.png" /></figure><p>This gentle, touching story follows little Ava as she spends cherished time with her grandad, creating memories beneath the canopy of their old Oak tree. The book explores the joy of shared experiences and the bittersweet nature of life’s changes. It introduces young children to themes of love, loss, and the cycle of life in a tender, reassuring way, helping them understand that even when someone they love is no longer with them, the memories and lessons they shared continue to live on.</p><p><br /><a href="https://www.childhoodbereavement.ie/safeharbour/"><strong>Safe Harbour by Patricia Forde</strong></a></p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:24.01%"><img src="https://img-dedicated.rip.ie/image_2edd9563e8ae1062e10356b88e43b73848325c0ff51c3d88.png" alt="A cover of a book

AI-generated content may be incorrect." /></figure><p><i>Safe Harbour</i> is a free illustrated story designed to help children navigate the loss of a parent to suicide. Told from the perspective of a child in a grieving family, it comes in two versions: one where the child’s father dies, and one where the child’s mother dies. The story offers reassurance, understanding, and<span style="color:hsl(0,0%,30%)"> a safe way for young readers to explore complex emotions. Supported by a guide for parents and caregivers, it provides a compassionate tool to initiate conversations, validate feelings, and help children process grief in a gentle, age-appropriate manner. The website</span><span style="color:hsl(0,0%,30%);font-family:Roboto, sans-serif"> also offers an </span><a href="https://www.childhoodbereavement.ie//safe-harbour/audio/"><span style="color:hsl(0,0%,30%);font-family:Roboto, sans-serif">audiobook</span></a><span style="color:hsl(0,0%,30%);font-family:Roboto, sans-serif">, a </span><a href="https://www.childhoodbereavement.ie//safe-harbour/podcasts/"><span style="color:hsl(0,0%,30%);font-family:Roboto, sans-serif">podcast series</span></a><span style="color:hsl(0,0%,30%);font-family:Roboto, sans-serif"> and </span><a href="https://www.childhoodbereavement.ie//safe-harbour/calming-exercises/"><span style="color:hsl(0,0%,30%);font-family:Roboto, sans-serif">activities for children</span></a><span style="color:hsl(0,0%,30%);font-family:Roboto, sans-serif">.</span></p><p><br /><a href="https://www.easons.com/finn-jones-was-here-simon-james-green-9780702303647?srsltid=AfmBOoqTH_s8uS5Dp9wrsRFmPCA4PTRuqmBcolLWrar8m0a_on4_YX8C"><strong>Finn Jones Was Here by Simon James Green</strong></a><i> </i></p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:19.44%"><img src="https://img-dedicated.rip.ie/image_aa859d38b0497b8996d63db459317e4c6b881f514a1751aa.png" alt="A book cover with hands and text

AI-generated content may be incorrect." /></figure><p>A heartfelt and humorous story about friendship, loss, and keeping memories alive: when Finn passes away, his best friend Eric embarks on an unusual scavenger hunt left behind by Finn, learning to navigate grief while celebrating the joy and adventures they shared. Sensitive yet uplifting, this book balances the sadness of losing a friend with moments of laughter, making it a comforting and relatable read for children experiencing bereavement.</p><p><br /><a href="https://www.easons.com/i-miss-you-pat-thomas-9781526317582?srsltid=AfmBOooxuMA0YqRSCX1aY5a40DrSab9Y0eD6VVVROEIFLu2GyR2tN2CS"><strong>I Miss You by Pat Thomas</strong></a></p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:28.23%"><img src="https://img-dedicated.rip.ie/image_c2ad4b4988add45a1c408ddca0382b68fc41d34fe37360be.png" alt="A child standing next to a chair

AI-generated content may be incorrect." /></figure><p>A gentle, accessible book that helps children understand that death is a natural part of life. Through simple text and illustrations, it reassures young readers that feelings of sadness, loss, and grief are a normal part of life. Designed for early school-age children, it encourages discussion, emotional expression, and positive interaction between children, parents, and caregivers, making it a sensitive and supportive resource for families navigating bereavement.</p><h3><strong>Tips for Using Books to Support a Child.</strong></h3><p>Read together in a calm, comfortable setting, allowing the child to take the lead in asking questions. Gently encourage them to discuss how the story relates to their own experiences, and offer creative outlets like drawing or play, or writing to help them express feelings that may be hard to put into words. Above all, remember that <a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/concerns-for-children-after-a-death-what-parents-should-know-298">every child grieves in their own way</a>. Patience, empathy, and consistent reassurance are essential in supporting their healing.</p>

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Books That Help Children Process Grief: A Guide for Parents and Guardians 

<p>In Ireland, music is woven into the fabric of farewell. Whether it’s a church funeral, a non-religious ceremony, or a wake in the family home or funeral parlour, songs help us express what words cannot. They bring comfort, evoke memories, and create moments of connection during times of grief.</p><p>This guide will help you:</p><ul><li>Approach creating a playlist for an Irish farewell</li><li>Include Irish classics and contemporary tracks that resonate with remembrance</li></ul><h3>How to Approach Your Playlist</h3><ol><li><strong>Consider the setting</strong><br />Is it a church funeral, a civil ceremony, or a wake at home? Religious services often include hymns, while wakes allow for traditional ballads and personal favourites.</li><li><strong>Balance tradition and personality</strong><br />Include songs that reflect Irish heritage alongside tracks that were meaningful to your loved one.</li><li><strong>Think about the flow</strong><br />Start with gentle instrumentals or reflective songs, move into pieces that celebrate life, and close with something hopeful or uplifting.</li><li><strong>Keep it appropriate for the moment</strong><br />Wakes often feature live music or sing-alongs, while ceremonies may need recorded tracks played softly in the background.</li></ol><h3>Irish Songs to Include</h3><p>Here are six thoughtful choices—a mix of classics and modern tracks that feel fresh and deeply comforting:</p><p><strong>1. The Old Man – Phil Coulter</strong></p><p>A tender tribute to fathers and family bonds. Its lyrics evoke gratitude and memory, making it a poignant choice for a funeral or month’s mind.</p><p><strong>2. Ride On – Christy Moore</strong></p><p>A haunting ballad about parting and moving on, full of quiet strength and emotion.</p><p><strong>3. No Frontiers – Mary Black</strong></p><p>A modern classic about love without limits—ideal for expressing enduring connection beyond life.</p><p><strong>4. Black Is the Colour – Cara Dillon</strong></p><p>A traditional song reimagined with ethereal vocals, evoking beauty and melancholy.</p><p><strong>5. The Green Fields of France – The Fureys</strong></p><p>A reflective song about sacrifice and remembrance, perfect for honoring a life well-lived.</p><p><strong>6. Lakes of Pontchartrain – Paul Brady</strong></p><p>A soulful ballad with themes of journey and longing, often played at wakes or memorial gatherings.</p><h3><strong>Related Reading:</strong><br /><a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/8-irish-songs-that-bring-comfort-after-loss-308">8 Irish Songs That Bring Comfort After Loss</a></h3>

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How to Create a Playlist for an Irish Funeral or Wake – Classics and Modern Choices

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Condolence Books - Printed and Bound

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Creating a printed hardbound book of online messages of condolence can be a meaningful way to preserve and honour the memories of a loved one.

Sometimes words fall short. These thoughtfully curated boxes are a gentle way to send sympathy, comfort, and a caring embrace when it matters most.

Topic: Coping With Loss