Santa’s Grotto tribute in aid of Temple Street returns for ‘09

The family of a tragic 7-year-old who died when she became tangled in the cord of her dressing gown are gearing up for another memorial fundraiser to keep alive her memory by supporting the hosptial that tried desperately to save her life.
Anna Lee Lynch was climbing down form her bunk beds when she slipped and fell, losing her life when the cord from her dressing gown wrapped around her neck.
She was rushed to Temple Street Children’s Hospital where the doctors fought to save her life but were unsuccessful.
Faced with the grief of Christmas, Anne Marie’s family decided to use the festive occasion to both mark the life of their “little angel” and raise much needed funds for the hospital to help them continue their vital work.
Her aunt Theresa McConnell said it helped the family to use their grief to help others.
“After she died we just wanted to do something, and something for her age group in particular.
“It was so tragic because it was so sudden. She wasn’t sick, it was so tragic. She was getting down off the bunk bed and got the cord of her dressing gown wrapped around her neck.
“It was very sudden – she wasn’t sick at all. It was just a tragedy, there is nothing else you can say.”
The McConnell’s now run a Santas Grotto in aid of the campaign, and the festivities will kick off on Sunday December 13 when Santa arrives on his sleigh at noon.
He will be available to see Children until 7pm and €5 per child guarantees a picture.
In addition, a spectacular show of Christmas lighting will also be on display.
Theresa said they hope the community would come out and support their endevour.
“All the proceeds will go towards the purchase of life saving equipment for Temple Street Children’s Hospital and I hope everyone will come along and make the event a big success.”
The grotto can be found at Togherstown, Carlanstown, Kells. For more information contact 046 924 6894.