Tree of Hope ceremony helps those who have lost loved ones
By Mary Dennehy
MEMBERS of the Fettercairn community came together recently to plant new roots in the area, and to support local residents who have lost family members to suicide or illness.
In recent years, the Fettercairn community has been experiencing high levels of anti-social behaviour and a disconnection with some of its younger residents.
The Tree of Hope ceremony attracted a large group of supporters
However, the Fettercairn Estate Management team has been busy over the last few months helping residents to reclaim their area by working together on various projects, including clean-ups and mural painting.
A large, overgrown flowerbed in Kilmartin Drive was also completely transformed, with support from South Dublin County Council, and it was here that the Tree of Hope ceremony took place on Saturday, July 14.
According to Mary Keegan, Fettercairn Estate Management: “We held the Tree of Hope ceremony at the new redeveloped flower bed on Kilmartin Drive to support the residents who have lost family members to suicide and illness in the Kilmartin area.
“We had a huge turn-out on the day, and the newly-elected Mayor Mark Ward and local councillors attended.
“A retired business man donated a marble bench for residents to sit on and remember their loved ones at the Tree of Hope and local residents bought lights and ornaments for the bed.”
Fr Paul Ludden, who was previously based in St Mark’s Parish, came back to bless the tree and the community, while local councillor Charlie O’Connor read a poem.
“A local resident also spoke a few words and said what the day meant to him and his family,” Ms Keegan said.
“He thanked the community for the great work they have done to support families who have experienced the loss of a loved one to suicide.”
Grow community spirit
Another resident said that a cloud had been hanging over the area for too long, but that she now felt it had been lifted by the work done in Kilmartin, believing that the Tree of Hope will help grow community spirit.
Betty Caverly, chairperson of the Fettercairn Estate Management, thanked everyone for their hard work in making the day possible and that she hoped the ceremony would bring “peace and happiness” back to the area.
She also added that the community can support each other as “big family” in both times of sadness and happiness.
Mayor Mark Ward helping to plant the Tree of Hope in Fettercairn
The Tree of Hope is a community-led project that started in Tallaght more than four years ago, with the Kilmartin tree being the 196th tree planted.
The trees are planted as a symbol of support to all those affected by suicide or living with a mental health illness – with the trees creating a special focal point in communities for all.
For further details visit the Tree of Hope Facebook page.
