Kildare family band pen Christmas single for loved one
The Maher family band
A MUSICAL family from Kildare has released a new single as a tribute to their son and brother who died from cancer.
Danny was an accomplished guitarist who joined the family band The Mahers at the age of seven, and passed away at 20 after battling a rare form of cancer.
Speaking from his home in Newbridge, Dave Maher, Danny’s father and a respected figure in Ireland’s music scene, recalled that on Danny’s 18th birthday, he was diagnosed with Synovial Sarcoma—a rare condition primarily affecting teenagers.
Despite numerous challenges, including the eventual amputation of his arm, Danny demonstrated remarkable resilience and composure throughout his illness.
He continued to inspire those around him with his unwavering positivity, never expressing anger or bitterness, and instead offering comfort to his family.
“Danny was our only son, deeply loved by all of us,” explains Dave Maher.
“His three sisters who sing in our family band, Stacey, Robyn and Ruby were devoted to him, we all were, and he filled our home with joy and laughter.
“Christmas was always his favourite season—he had tremendous spirit, a great sense of fun and craic, and left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
“Through , we seek to honour his memory in a manner true to his vibrant character, filled with heart, warmth, and music.
“We hope the song provides some comfort to others missing loved ones this Christmas.
“During Christmas, a time traditionally devoted to togetherness and celebration, we know that sense of absence can become even more pronounced.
The festive season, with its focus on family gatherings and shared memories, often highlights what—or who—is missing, reminding us of the empty spaces left behind by those we love”.
“As a family, we feel Danny’s absence keenly, especially during Christmas.
“Families across the country and indeed across the world will understand and feel this sense of loss, as Christmas highlights the presence of an ‘empty chair at the table.’ Robyn Maher, Danny’s sister, shares this perspective:
“Having Danny as a brother was a privilege—it feels strange to be a family of sisters again, but many families face similar hardships. Instead of dwelling on our loss, we choose to cherish the time we had with him.
" is our lasting tribute to his legacy, and I am so proud of the song.
"Its message of love and remembrance will resonate widely, as loss is, in whatever guise, a part of life.”
With the release of last Friday (5 December), the Mahers hope to raise awareness of childhood cancer and provide solace to anyone feeling the weight of loss at Christmas.
