‘My twin daughters were born sleeping; This is deeply personal to me’
Buncrana to shine a light on lost babies and young children, as Councillor shares personal loss
Buncrana will turn pink and blue this evening (Thursday) in memory of babies and young children who have died, as a local Councillor marks a cause that is deeply personal to him following the stillbirth of his twin daughters last September.
Buncrana Library, the Courthouse and the II Hub will all be illuminated at 7pm to mark International Wave of Light Day on October 15, an annual occasion when families around the world light candles in remembrance of babies and children lost during pregnancy, infancy or childhood.
Cllr Fionan Bradley has spoken movingly about the loss of his daughters, explaining why it is so important that they are remembered and recognised as members of his family.
“Many of you will know this is an issue which is deeply personal to me. Last September my twin daughters were born sleeping,” he said.
“Occasions like today are important because it's very important to me that they are recognised, remembered and talked about the same as any other member of our family.”
The Fianna Fáil councillor said the annual event provides an opportunity to acknowledge the grief experienced by families who have lost children, while ensuring that their babies are not forgotten.
He encouraged people to visit the Buncrana landmarks this evening and take a moment to remember those who have died and the families who continue to live with their loss.
“If you’re out and about this evening, come and look at the landmarks in Buncrana which are being lit up and say a prayer for all the babies gone too soon and their families who live that reality every day,” he said.
Cllr Bradley also thanked Donegal County Council staff who helped arrange the illuminations.
International Wave of Light Day is observed annually on October 15, with families lighting candles at 7pm local time as part of a wave of remembrance across different time zones.
The initiative aims to raise awareness of pregnancy and infant loss, offering bereaved parents and families an opportunity to remember their children and recognise the experiences of others facing similar grief.