On Saturday, 6th September, LauraLynn, Ireland’s Children’s Hospice rolled out the red carpet the Odeon Cinema in Charlestown for one of the most magical events in the LauraLynn calendar, The LauraLynn Oscars. Six incredible families premiered their own unique movies during the. the glamourous event which was MCed by recently announced Ireland AM presenter, Eric Roberts.
The incredible LauraLynn children and families playing a starring role this year came from all across the country. The Devereux, Baker and Fay families from Dublin, the Aherne family from Waterford, The Donoghues from Galway and the Morelli Messias family from Carlow.
Each family took home a prestigious award for their cinematic masterpiece:
The Aherne Family (Waterford)
Best Drama Movie for “Emily Saves The World Cup”
The Donoghue Family (Galway)
Best Adventure Movie for “Lórcan’s Musical Treasure”
The Morelli Messias Family (Carlow)
Best Entertainment Movie for “Theo’s Tiny Take-Off"
The Devereux Family (Dublin)
Best Mystery Movie for “A Helping Hand”
The Baker Family (Dublin)
Best Action Movie for “The Powerchair & The Glory”
The Fay Family (Dublin)
Best Fantasy Movie for “Reuben’s Beach Rescue”
The LauraLynn Oscars is a unique therapeutic initiative that allows families to create their own film with the support of industry professionals. Now in its 8th year, the project began as a film workshop for siblings and has since evolved into a cherished family-focused event.
The feeling on the day was electric. Liam Devereaux, father of Grace, described walking the red carpet: “It was really exhilarating and nearly overwhelming, the greeting we got from everybody. The adrenaline was flowing and it was brilliant.”
For the families, the experience was about creating lasting memories. As Ann Aherne, Emily’s Mum, shared: “It was absolutely amazing. I can’t even put into words what it meant to all of the family. We just made incredible memories that money can’t buy. We’ll never get to replicate this again. It’s just been so incredibly special.”
First-time LauraLynn Oscars MC Eric Roberts shared his thoughts: “I am absolutely honoured to MC the LauraLynn Oscars this year. I am blown away by the remarkable children and their families and the work and dedication they have put into making their movies. The event is such a beautiful thing to be a part of.”
Michelle Hartnett, Senior Play Therapist at LauraLynn, explained the project's importance: “This project is about so much more than making a film; it’s about building deeper connections and creating lasting memories. What makes this initiative so important is that it empowers families to become active storytellers and see their own narratives come alive on screen. Most importantly, it gives the families and their guests a magical day to stand in the spotlight together, creating moments of joy and beauty that will be cherished for a lifetime.”
The LauraLynn Oscars exemplifies the importance of creating moments of joy and cherished memories. LauraLynn is Ireland’s only Children’s Hospice supporting children and their families across the country. To support the work LauraLynn does please see the various ways to help or donate now.
