In the wake of a tragedy, the smallest of gestures can make a big difference.
People across the GAA community and around Ireland have this week rallied around a Westmeath family following the loss of a young girl.
Three-year-old Annabel Loughlin from Delvin died in a tragic accident at home on Friday.
Her father Enda is well-known in the community for his years of service on the country’s senior hurling team.
As a mark of respect, a match between Enda’s club Clonkill and Ballyboden St Enda’s that was due to take place on Sunday was postponed.
The clash went ahead at Parnell Park last night with the Loughlin family’s blessing.
The Clonkill team included Annabel’s cousins Adam and Luke Loughlin. Both sides stood for a minute’s silence before throw-in.
While Ballyboden managed to edge out a victory in extra time, a scoreboard tribute to the little girl left a lasting impression on all in attendance.
#whatalovelytouch @Bodengaa @DubGAAOfficial ????? pic.twitter.com/J4imcoqNHt
— Clonkillhurling (@Clonkillhurling) November 6, 2018
Annabel was laid to rest yesterday after a funeral service at her local church in Devlin.
Speaking at the service, Enda said he couldn’t describe the effect her loss would have on him, his wife Eileen and their sons Senan and TJ.
“She had a heart of gold, a smile that would light up heaven and a temper that would put the fear of God into the strongest and bravest of us all,” he said.
“Sleep tight missy moo, we love you.”
