Final Twomey Memorial

June 10th and 11th this year marks the final Twomey Family Memorial. The event has run for the last 10 years around the time of the family’s tragedy.

In Summery of 2012, Elber Twomey, her husband Con and her child, affectionately referred to as Baba Oisín made the decision to go on holiday to Devon. At 5 months pregnant with “Little Lady”, Elber didn’t want to fly, but the ferry was a wonderful break. They enjoyed a carefree 6 days, including a day with cousin Sean Twomey.

On July 6th, the 7th day, tragedy struck.

Suicidal driver Malek Wojciechowski had left a 4 page suicide letter that led to a police chase. During this chase, he swerved and hit the family’s car. The crash killed Oisín and sent Con and Elber to hospital. Sadly, Con passed 10 months later because of his injuries, and Elber lost Little Lady.

In the years since, Elber has done incredible work. She has raised road safety awareness, campaigned for suicide prevention and understanding, and as of 2019, because of her hard work, all control room staff at Devon and Cornwall Police are trained in suicide awareness. This campaign has extended to Gardaí, and her efforts have gained her the president’s award from the European network of traffic police, Tispol, in recognition of her contributions.

As impressive as this is, what’s more is her display of grace and faith as she forgave Malek. It took work, about which she is very open. This transparency inspires such belief in the grieving process and that healing is possible.

Cousin Sean Twomey is just as inspired. He has never had a chance to join the memorials, but as the final event comes closer, he has opted for a show of support to the cause and to the hospital that did so much to help Elber. Sean will climb the Shinner Steps in Brixton. Over 200 times. This 45,000 step endeavour will match the height of Mount Everest in distance and will be done in a pirate costume.

This 10th and final memorial weekend will be two days - 10th and 11th June - and will have something for everyone. From a 50k cycle, a 5k timed run to a quiz and a family walk. Since the accident Elber has raised upwards of a whopping €175,000 for charity, and this final event will be an incredible cap on such a journey of awareness, remembrance, and healing. Check their Facebook page to join them for a great weekend. Meelin is sure to be a hub of activity!

And remember; life is precious.