Two little Laois stars shine at LauraLynn Oscars

A RED carpet was rolled out for two Laois children and their families at a glittering awards ceremony, when they were joined by host Amy Huberman and actor Domhnail Gleeson at the 2026 LauraLynn Oscars this week.

Madison Gee from Abbeyleix and Harry Hoare from Rathdowney were the stars of the show, as LauraLynn celebrated heartwarming creativity and imagination.

The Oscar awards ceremony showcased six original films created by children who attend LauraLynn, Ireland's national children's hospice.

The project transforms children's ideas into original films for the big screen and culminates in an awards ceremony hosted by the Odeon Cinema, Charlestown.

Madison created and starred in the film ‘Madison’s Magic Switch’ with her parents Gordon and Gemma and family. Filled with laughter, surprises and larger-than-life moments, the film won the Best Drama Oscar.

The Best Adventure Award went to Harry and his family for their unique film ‘Harry's Hugs’. Filled with warmth, humour and heart, this uplifting tale celebrates the bonds that connect us. Some heroes wear capes. Others simply give the best hugs.

The annual event saw families arrive to the Odeon cinema in style before enjoying a Hollywood-inspired awards ceremony hosted by Amy Huberman, who also contributed as a scriptwriter.

The ceremony on 7 September recognised the creativity, humour and imagination at the heart of each family's story. The LauraLynn Oscars creates ‘moments families can treasure together, with memories that last a lifetime’.

The LauraLynn Oscars gives children with life-limiting conditions and their families the opportunity to create and star in their own films, created alongside professional writers, filmmakers and volunteers, resulting in a memorable day on the big screen surrounded by family and friends.

Speaking at the ceremony, Amy Huberman said: "I am so excited to be here to MC the event and to meet all the super stars. It is going to be a great day!"

The LauraLynn Oscars is co-created by LauraLynn project coordinator Lorna Collins and family therapist Michelle Hartnett, with support from long-standing volunteer Joanna Butler and a team of industry professionals and volunteers.

Michelle said: “The LauraLynn Oscars is a celebration of children, families and the joy of being together. It gives families the opportunity to create their own movie, bring their ideas to life and enjoy their moment in the spotlight. This family support project culminates in our gorgeous red-carpet event giving families a chance to have fun, celebrate each other and create memories to treasure.” 

LauraLynn supports children with life-limiting conditions and their families through symptom management, planned short breaks, family support, community nursing supports, end-of-life care and bereavement support. Services are provided free of charge and help children and their families make the most of short and precious lives.