Remembering Ashling Murphy

Every year, they come around.

Some we celebrate, some we’d rather forget and others we remember in silence.

They are, of course, anniversaries.

We’re very happy to sing joyously for our children, especially when they are young.

We plan the day well in advance, order the special cake and wrap the surprise presents.

The happy moments are captured on camera and video.

As age takes a hold, we don’t want any fuss for ourselves and for elderly parents or grandparents who have passed on, we may shed a private tear.

Some families don’t get to choose, especially when a family member has died in tragic circumstances.

This Thursday, January 12, is the first anniversary of Ashling Murphy’s death. A young vibrant 23-year-old school teacher, going for a run on a quiet Wednesday afternoon when her life was taken from her.

During 2022, across businesses, sports clubs and schools, the Nenagh community joined together in support of the objectives of the 'Choose Respect' campaign.

Now in 2023, as a result of the generous financial support from the Christmas Day Charity Swim committee and Nenagh Chamber of Commerce, the Choose Respect committee will continue the momentum advanced last year and are developing a detailed plan, which will be rolled out in the coming months.

On Thursday, our thoughts and prayers will be with the Murphy family on this sorrowful first anniversary for their beautiful daughter Ashling.