Family and friends of the late Laurence ‘Lar’ McGuinness have organised Keep Her Lit for Lar, a vehicle parade of lights in memory of the late farmer.
The married father of three was diagnosed with cancer and passed away in January of this year at forty-seven.
In a statement on Facebook, organisers described him as a “well-known proud” Rush farmer, who “loved nothing better than being out in the fields on his tractor, having a few pints, or travelling to see the Dubs play”.
They said he faced his cancer battle “head-on” and was determined to get through it with the help of his family, wife, Maeve, three beautiful daughters, Caoimhe, Doireann and Aideen, and friends”.
Maeve said: “Lar’s strong faith helped him greatly. When he spoke to his oncologist Oscar, he never wanted to know progress, saying to him ‘Just Keep Her Lit’.”
“Throughout his treatment, his strong religious faith gave him the extra strength. He religiously visited St.Winefride’s Well in Wales as well as Clonfert for a dip.”
His family and friends paired with organisers of the Fionn’s Parade of Lights that held a “very successful” event in memory of Fionn Anderson and came up with Keep Her Lit For Lar to honour his memory.
Keep Her Lit for Lar will take place on Sunday, January 2nd, 2022, at 5 pm in aid of the following charities:
- Aoife’s Clown Doctors;
- LauraLynn Ireland’s Children’s Hospice;
- Skerries Youth Support Services;
- The Friends of St Luke’s Cancer Care.
According to organisers, Skerries Youth Support Services (SYSS) was “special” to Laurence as the death of a close friend from suicide “deeply affected” him throughout his life.
Furthermore, he understood the importance of counselling and support for young people.
The spokesperson concluded: “These various charities and organisations mean so much to so many. The McGuinness family are working to raise as much money as they can to help them in their fundraising.”
The event will start from Man O War GAA Club and visit local towns Lusk, Rush, Loughshinny, Skerries, Balbriggan and Balrothery.
You can make donations online.
