​Turning pain into a positive by raising funds for the KBRT

Lauren and Stephen McLaughlin, who are currently living and working in San Francisco, have told how the Trust “lifted an enormous financial and emotional burden from our shoulders, at a time when we could barely stand”.

“Their kindness and support ensured that Caoimhín could make that final journey home with dignity," they said.

The McLaughlins said they will be forever grateful to the Newry-based charity and, to give something back, they have signed up for the ‘Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon’ on June 7, with all money raised going to the KBRT.

Speaking from their home in San Francisco, Lauren shared how, in the midst of their unimaginable loss, the KBRT had been a beacon of hope.

“There are no words to truly capture the heartbreak of losing a child,” she said.

“The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust gave us something we will be forever grateful for, the ability to bring our son home to Ireland to his final resting place.

“Without KBRT, this would not have been possible. The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust exists to alleviate the financial hardship of families bringing their loved ones home to Ireland. They step in quietly, compassionately and without hesitation.”

She added: “We are raising money for the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, and any donation will help make a huge impact.

“We are doing this for our son - to keep his little memory alive - and for other families who may find themselves in the same devastating position we were in.”

On Sunday, June 7, Lauren and Stephen will take on the triathlon as a relay team of two.

Lauren explained: “Stephen has completed the Escape from Alcatraz triathlon twice before, back in 2018 and 2019, but this will actually be my first, so it feels like a big challenge for us.

“We chose Escape from Alcatraz because it felt meaningful to do something that really pushes us, both physically and mentally, in memory of our son in the city where he was born. It’s not just about completing a race, it’s about doing something that reflects the strength we’ve had to find over the past four months.

“This has definitely pushed us outside of our comfort zones, but the training has given us something to focus on together and has been a positive outlet during a really difficult time.”

The race starts with a 1.5-mile swim from Alcatraz Island, followed by an 18-mile bike ride, and then an eight-mile run through San Francisco, including on sand, hills and the famous sand ladder.

Stephen will take on the swim and bike elements, with Lauren doing the run. For the local couple, it will be an “incredibly emotional” journey.

“There will be a huge sense of pride in completing something so challenging, but also a lot of emotion knowing exactly why we’re doing it.

“It will feel like we’re doing it for Caoimhín every step of the way. I know he will carry us through it.”

Lauren said it “means everything” that they are able to support the KBRT.

“We wouldn’t wish our experience on anyone, but knowing the KBRT is there to support families in those moments is so important and raising awareness for the Trust is so important to us.

“I knew about the Trust and the amazing work they did, but never in a million years did I think I would be in a position to need them to step in and help us.

“It's particularly important to us to raise awareness because we live away from home. Being able to give back and help another family in the future feels like a way of honouring Caoimhín and turning something so painful into something positive.”

Lauren and Stephen’s three-year-old son, Cillian, has been a huge source of comfort and light, as they cope with their loss.

“Cillian has helped us more than we could ever put into words and more than he will ever know. His joy and energy bring light into even the darkest days and remind us to keep going.

“Leaning on one another has been the biggest thing. My husband and I have really carried one another through the hardest moments. Our family and friends have also been an incredible support both in San Francisco and Ireland.

“Talking about Caoimhín, remembering him, and keeping his memory part of our everyday lives has helped. Having something to focus on, like this fundraiser and triathlon training, has also given us a sense of purpose during the hardest days.”

Lauren concluded: “The goal is simply to raise as much as possible for the Trust and raise awareness of the help they provide.”

Donations can be made via: https://www.gofundme.com/f/wcqkx-in-memory-of-caoimhin-for-the-kevin-bell-repatriation-trust