The Sensory Room at St. Gabriel’s Respite House was launched in memory of Cillian Shanahan.
Earlier this summer, Myles Shanahan, originally from Doon but now living in Tipperary, undertook a cycling challenge in memory of his son, Cillian, to raise funds for St. Gabriel’s Children’s School and Respite House, Limerick.
Cillian passed away in 2019 in his second year of life.
Supported by his work colleagues from Northern Trust and great neighbours and friends, Myles took to the roads around the Mid-west and cycled 713 miles (1150km) to mark the cherished number of days of Cillian’s life.
“I am very glad to have been able to do the cycling fundraiser again this year. St. Gabriel’s holds a special place in our lives as my other son Myles goes to school there. I know that this Sensory Room, which will forever more be called “Cillian’s Sensory Room”, will bring joy to other children that use it.” Myles Shanahan said.
Acknowledging the great efforts that Myles went to make this happen, St. Gabriel’s Chief Executive, Treasa McAuliffe said. “The dedication to Cillian’s memory here today is an excerpt from a poem about children’s lives – “Make the ordinary come alive for them. The extraordinary will take care of itself.” There is something special about this room that will bring so much pleasure to children. Cillian’s legacy will have such meaningful impact on the children attending St. Gabriel’s. We are very grateful to Myles and Michelle for thinking of others and we are delighted that Cillian will be forever part of St. Gabriel’s.”