Wexford’s Sean Barnes launches LauraLynn Charity Ball

Gorey’s own Sean Barnes joined forces with Miriam O’Callaghan and Alan Shortt to launch one of the biggest charity events of the year– the LauraLynn Heroes Ball.

Now in its sixth year, the charity ball is promised as an incredible night of fun, fundraising, support and entertainment all in aid of Ireland’s only Children’s Hospice, LauraLynn. Launching the event was particularly significant for 16-year-old Sean as he avails of LauraLynn’s services.

"Sean was so excited to take part in the launch of the LauraLynn Heroes Ball today. From dressing up to getting his photo taken, he has enjoyed every minute,” said Sean’s parents, Ciaran and Catherine.

"We were referred to LauraLynn three years ago and we are so grateful for the support Sean and the whole family have received since our first visit. LauraLynn offers us the opportunity to take some much-needed planned short breaks. Visiting LauraLynn and knowing Sean is well looked after whilst there from his medical needs to the variety of fun activities provided, we can’t thank LauraLynn enough for giving us the opportunity to live the little moments. We are so grateful to the team at LauraLynn for the amazing work they do for our family and many others. Thank you to all who support the Heroes Ball and ensures LauraLynn is there for children like Sean and families like ours.”

This year’s LauraLynn Ball will take place on March 4 at The Round Room in the Mansion House, Dublin. LauraLynn patron Miriam O’Callaghan will take to the stage as MC for the night and the comical Alan Shortt will keep the crowd entertained whilst overseeing the charity auction activities.

Speaking at the launch of the LauraLynn Heroes Ball, Miriam O’Callaghan said she was “honoured” to serve as MC for this year’s event.

"It is a night in the calendar I look forward to each year, it is always a fantastic evening and all in aid of the wonderful work that LauraLynn do for so many children and families across Ireland.’’

“I am delighted to host the auction at the LauraLynn Heroes Ball this year. We have some amazing auction prizes up for grabs including bespoke artwork, holidays and training sessions for sport lovers,” added Alan.

Care from LauraLynn is provided free of charge for children and families. LauraLynn receives core statutory state funding which equates to approximately one third of the overall running costs for the hospice. LauraLynn relies primarily on fundraised income to fund its hospice services. The Heroes Ball is a key date in the fundraising calendar for the charity.