Publication sharing stories from care settings across Kildare & Midlands launched
Lucy Tormey, Ruairí O'Shea, John Grogan, Cllr. Brian O'Loughlin, Máire Ní Chonghaile, Cllr. Rupert Heather, Gillian Allen, Eláine Donnelly, John Conway, Sally-Anne McFadden, Cllr. Noel Heavey; Emma Hynes, Cllr. Carmel Kelly; Bernadette Jackson, Karina Brown, Siobhain Boyce
A NEW publication capturing the stories of people in residential healthcare and palliative care settings across Kildare, Offally, and Westmeath was launched by Kildare County Kildare and supported by Creative Ireland in partnership with the HSE and Healthy Ireland.
The event took place on Wednesday, 21 January in the Lusine Centre, McAuley Place, Naas, and was officially opened by the cathaoirleach of Kildare County Council, cllr Carmel Kelly.
Central to the project were the creative engagements facilitated within residential care home settings in Offaly (Anam Beo Collective) and Westmeath (Fighting Words Team), as well as with the artist in residence, John Conway, situated in Naas General Hospital working specifically with the palliative and end of life care teams. These sessions created safe, reflective, and compassionate spaces where participants could share powerful personal stories and reflections.
The project was brought to life by the work of the artist facilitators, whose practice centres on arts and health methodologies. Their sensitive, person-focused approach ensured that participants’ voices were heard, respected, and celebrated.
Cllr Carmel Kelly said: “This publication honours the voices of individuals whose stories remind us of the importance of connection, memory, and community. Did I Ever Tell You shows what can be achieved when local authorities, health partners, and artists work together to support creativity, wellbeing, and the human spirit.”
The project reflects the shared commitment of Creative Ireland, the HSE, Healthy Ireland, and the participating Local Authorities to champion creativity as a tool for wellbeing and connection, particularly for individuals whose circumstances place them in healthcare settings.
