Money raised in memory of O'Connor family donated to Louth autism organisations

The generosity of the public following a tragic incident in Louth last year has resulted in more than €35,000 being donated to two organisations that support people with autism and learning disabilities in the county. 

Last September, Louise and Mark O’Connor and their son Evan were found dead at their home in Drumgowna. The incident, which received widespread national attention, prompted an outpouring of sympathy and support from the public.

In the weeks that followed, a GoFundMe fundraiser organised in memory of the family raised over €36,810. After transaction fees were deducted, the O’Connor and Doherty families were able to make two donations of €17,748.04 each to The Hub Praxis Care Drogheda and ABACAS School in Drogheda.

Both organisations played an important role in Evan O’Connor’s life.

The Hub in Drogheda, operated by Praxis Care, provides day services for adults with a learning disability and/or autism in Louth. The service offers a range of activities designed to help individuals develop skills, build independence and enjoy a social environment during the day.

ABACAS school, which was in part established in 2003 by Mark and Louise, is a school that delivers a specialist autism specific individualised education to 30 autistic children with complex needs aged between 3 and 18. ABACAS prioritizes inclusivity, equality and respect of diversity in their approach to education.

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On March 5, what would have been Louise O’Connor’s 57th birthday,  members of the O’Connor and Doherty families visited both facilities to formally present the donations and see first-hand the work being done by staff and service users.

Both the Hub Drogheda and ABACAS Drogheda were attended by Evan during his life and mean much to wider O'Connor & Doherty families. 

During the visit, the family met staff and participants and learned more about the day-to-day activities and supports offered at both organisations.

The family said they also wanted to use the occasion to publicly acknowledge the kindness and generosity of those who contributed to the fundraiser.