A story from Mum Una

Our Beautiful Órla

Órla's story, shared by her mum Una

Órla was born on 20 September 2022, arriving into our family with a sparkle in her eyes and a smile that could brighten any room.

From the very beginning, she was full of life. She was a happy little girl with endless energy, laughter and love. We often joked that Órla never wanted to sleep because she was afraid she might miss out on something exciting. Night-time was never her favourite thing. As soon as she woke, she would sit up and ask, "Is it morning?" Then she would be off on her next adventure.

Once the sun was up, Órla was up too.

She loved the outdoors. She loved feeling the warmth of the sun on her face, watching the clouds drift across the sky and gazing at the moon at night. Nature seemed to speak to her in a special way. She noticed the little things that others often missed and found joy everywhere she looked.

One of Órla's most treasured possessions was her red woolly blanket, lovingly knitted by Granny. It went everywhere with her and brought her comfort and security.

One evening, disaster struck when the red blanket could not be found. We searched and searched, but it was nowhere to be seen. Before bedtime, we explained to Órla that we could not find it. Although she was only two years old, she listened carefully and seemed to understand.

At three o'clock in the morning, she woke looking for her beloved blanket. To help her understand that it was still night-time, I carried her outside. Looking up at the bright full moon, Órla burst out laughing.

"You silly billy," she said to the moon. "Give me back my red blanket in the morning."

Thankfully, the blanket was found the next day, and peace was restored to the world of a little girl and her treasured red blanket.

Órla is the middle child in our family and was surrounded by love and joy.

Her big sister, Clodagh, was only eighteen months older than her. The two girls shared a special bond from the very beginning. They were sisters, best friends and constant companions. Together they explored, imagined, laughed and learned. They did everything together and shared a bedroom.

Although she was younger, Órla often showed Clodagh not to be afraid. At playgrounds she would eagerly climb, jump and explore. If Clodagh hesitated at a difficult obstacle or a shaky bridge, Órla would encourage her forward. She seemed to believe that anything was possible and wanted everyone around her to feel brave too.

She was adventurous, confident and full of determination, but she was also incredibly caring.

When baby Éireann arrived, Órla was overjoyed. From that very first moment, she
embraced her role as a big sister with so much love.
She sang to her baby sister, kissed her tiny forehead and wrapped her in the gentlest hugs.

If anyone spoke too loudly, Órla would quickly whisper, "Shhhh, baby's sleeping." She loved fiercely, protected instinctively and cared so deeply for the people around her. I truly believe Órla was a wise little soul who understood the meaning of love far beyond her years.

Although our story together was far too short, Órla taught us how to love more deeply, laugh more freely and find joy in the little things. She will always be part of our family, our story and our hearts. Her footprints may have been tiny, but the place
she holds in our hearts will always be enormous.

Forever our Órla.

"The End."
Just as Órla would have proudly shouted after every storybook.

After Run For Órla

Family Fun Day

Once the run events wrap up, the community celebration continues at Pelican Park. Stay with us to enjoy food, activities and time together as we celebrate Órla’s life with warmth, connection and plenty of heart.