Real People

Real Stories

Hearing from the people we work with reminds us why we do what we do.

Here are some of those incredible stories, kind words and feedback from those who have taken part in our workshops, events and initiatives.

After this I now know that if I was in need or in help I would be able to text LA519 to 50808 to get help.

Frankie D has a very inspirational part on telling us about resilience and how to be resilient mentally.

I learned that we all have care bears and gremlins and that we all struggle with our own problems no matter how big or small.

Overall I really enjoyed this talk and I feel like it should be more regular as I believe it’s not talked about enough.

Student

I really didn’t want to do it – it was the best thing we’ve ever had in school!

Student

St. Bricin's College, Cavan

The students absolutely loved it and it encompassed a number of curriculum areas.

The workshop helped to encourage conversations around mental health and wellbeing within your school, and the instructor spoke about our school values and having belief in yourself

Paul Foy

Principal - St. Ronan's Lisnaskea

Grief is such a lonely road, and after losing my wonderful dad in June 2024, I felt completely lost. Martina has been a true light through that darkness. She genuinely gets it — having faced tragedy in her own life — and that deep understanding shines through in everything she does. Her warmth, compassion, and empathy have helped me find my way and reminded me that I’m not alone. I’m so deeply grateful for her ongoing care and support.❤️

Iv been to martina a few times over the years for various reasons iv always found my experience truly amazing and beneficial. More recently i went to martina for a healing session not that i felt in need or particularly under pressure about anything (or so i thought🙈) however i had lost my mum the previous year and was struggling with the loss of her which I had tried to mask this was brought to the surface near the end of the session and although i was quite upset martinas understanding and acknowledgement of my loss and pain made me feel validated and safe to let go and express my true feelings. I believe this was a turning point for me on my journey through grief and i cant thank her enough. I would highly recommend reaching out to martina if you are struggling in any area of your life or even if you THINK your not!! Her help and understanding of situations and people is invaluable thank you martina xx

Here in St Louis GNS we are absolutely thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Ciara McPhillips again this year, and we are deeply conscious that this valuable experience is made possible entirely through the sponsorship of LA519.

The girls gained so much from this programme last year, both in terms of enjoyment and genuine learning, and we are extremely grateful that you continue to make it possible for them each year.

Thank you so much for your continued generosity and support.

Marietta Graham Reynolds

Principal - St. Louis Girls' National School

After this I now know that if I was in need or in help I would be able to text LA519 to 50808 to get help.

Frankie D has a very inspirational part on telling us about resilience and how to be resilient mentally.

Overall I really enjoyed this talk and I feel like it should be more regular as I believe it’s not talked about enough.

I learned that we all have care bears and gremlins and that we all struggle with our own problems no matter how big or small.

Student

The most valuable aspect of the workshop was Movement!! And laughter without the Mobile phones!!

The workshop challenged them to learn a new skill, helped them understand that exercise isn’t just sport, dance is exercise too!

The students really enjoyed it! They were delighted to get up and moving! There was lots of laughter and fun!

It was fun, energetic, inclusive, lifted spirits

LA519 delivered an uplifting and energetic jiving workshop for our students, completely free of charge, and it was a standout moment in our wellbeing calendar. Their team brought incredible enthusiasm, making every student feel confident, included, and excited to take part. The positive atmosphere they created had a lasting impact, and we’re truly grateful for their continued support of our school community.

Emer Reilly

HSCL and Wellbeing Coordinator - CMETB

The feedback I am giving back is that the talk was really good. Barry Aughey is a very good speaker and knew how to grab our attention. I would really recommend this talk to anyone of all ages because everyone can go through mental illness due to death, grief ot anything. More people should be able to avail of the services that are available to everyone. I would like to thank Barry for telling us about the services.

Student

What can I say about Martina ! Magic star. I honestly think I couldn’t have got through what I was going through without her. Not only did she help me with the grief I was initially seeing her for but it brought up so much more shite within me that I didn’t know I was annoyed about. The experience I had with Martina was emotional , amazing and really unbelievable.. we laughed we cried we danced 😂 and coming out of her wee den I felt lighter and happier and knew I got this … she listened to me , I listened to her and on listening to her stories I knew we all had shit to face and we could do it. As long as we all the faith and luv and understanding ❤️ .. when grief came knocking at my door again I knew how to deal with it a bit better than the first time and that was down to Martina. I’ll be forever grateful to this lady for when she helped through .. I always say “ only for her “ .. luv her to bits. she’s also a crazy 🤪 in the best way 😂Which definitely helps 😂🥰❤️

Martina Crudden has been a huge help in our lives over the years. After losing my husband she has helped both myself and my daughter to manage our grief through both talking to us and using Reiki to clear the mind and find moments of peace.
She is a strong person who can use her own life experiences to empathise and talk about similar feelings.
My daughter experienced a lot of anxiety and Martina provided coping mechanisms which helped her enormously.
We continue to have her in our lives as we face different challenges along the way x
❤️

Want to Share Your Feedback?

We’d love to hear it!

LA519 represents Luke’s initials and the month and year he died. Barry and Deirdre want Luke’s legacy to make a difference and help those that need it.

Disclaimer: If you are seeking diagnosis or treatment for a mental health problem, you should consult your GP or a Mental Health professional. The information on our social media and website is NOT a substitute for proper diagnosis, treatment or the provision of advice by an appropriate health care professional.

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