700 attend Pieta event in memory of Laois woman Sharon Brennan
On stage with host Miriam O’Callaghan were national president of the GAA Jarlath Burns, Kerry football captain Gavin White and Tipperary hurling captain Ronan Maher
MORE than 700 people packed the Woodford Dolmen Hotel, Carlow recently for an uplifting evening of conversation and hope in memory of the late Sharon Brennan from Killeshin.
The charity event, Stories with Miriam O’Callaghan, was organised by the family of Sharon who tragically died by suicide in 2025, with all proceeds going to Pieta House to support their vital work in suicide prevention and mental health.
Hosted by broadcaster Miriam O’Callaghan, the evening featured guest speakers exploring themes of resilience and community spirit through real-life stories. Among those taking part were GAA president Jarlath Burns, all-Ireland winning captains Gavin White and Ronan Maher, and entertainers Al Porter and Rory’s Stories. Gavin brought the Sam Maguire Cup to the event.
Paul was particularly moved when Jarlath and the all-Ireland captains paid tribute to Killeshin GAA for supporting the family through difficult times.
“Jarlath Burns, Gavin White and Ronan Maher – I suppose, you could say they are the ‘holy trinity’ of the GAA and having them paying homage to our club meant a lot,” said Paul Brennan, Sharon’s husband and chairman of Killeshin GAA. “It was talking about suicide, but it was designed to be uplifting and hopeful and it did just exactly that. It sent the message out to people that might be contemplating something – to talk to someone.”
Paul continued: “The biggest thing I would have got from the night was that there was hope there. Miriam did a great job recognising that in rural Ireland a GAA club can become the spine of the community and help people out in hard times.”
Sharon’s sister Fiona Grace also spoke courageously about the family’s experience. She said: “This night is about remembering Sharon in the way she lived with love, kindness and positivity.”
Paul emphasised the importance of Pieta’s work, noting that while the government funds 20% of its services, the remaining 80% must be fundraised. “It’s an important service. When we rang them, they came out to the house and stayed as long as we wanted them to. It was a cup of tea by the fire, not an office environment.”
If you have been affected by any of the issues in this article, contact Pieta on 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444.
