Remembering Nichola Aylward: A Life Dedicated to Advocacy
Nichola Aylward (née Hughes), former CEO of Down Syndrome Ireland, passed away peacefully at home on December 27, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and the countless individuals whose lives she touched through her tireless advocacy work.
Aylward, who resided in Tramore, County Waterford, Ireland, is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth; Elizabeth’s father, Noel; her parents, Peter and Margaret; her sisters, Rebecca, Sarah, emma, and Laura; and her brothers-in-law, Carl and Steve. She will be deeply missed by her numerous nieces and nephews,aunts,uncles,cousins,and a wide circle of friends and colleagues.
“May her gentle soul rest in peace,” a statement from her family reads, reflecting the profound sorrow felt by those who knew her.
Aylward’s contributions to Down Syndrome Ireland were notable, leaving a lasting legacy of support and empowerment for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Her dedication to improving the lives of others will be remembered as a testament to her compassionate spirit.
Visitation will be held at Falconers Funeral Home in Riverstown, Tramore, on Wednesday, January 1, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. “All are welcome,” the family announced.A Requiem Mass will be celebrated at the Church of the Holy Cross in tramore on Thursday, January 2, at 10 a.m., followed by interment at St.Declan’s Cemetery. For those unable to attend in person, a livestream of the Mass is available at https://www.tramoreparish.ie/live-stream/.
The funeral cortege will proceed from Lodges Corner/Tramore credit Union at approximately 9:40 a.m. to the church. In a touching tribute, the Hughes family requests that attendees wear odd socks in support of Down Syndrome Ireland.
The family has requested privacy during this arduous time. “House private at all times,” the family stated. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Down Syndrome Ireland via https://downsyndrome.ie.
A book of condolence is available online for those wishing to express their sympathy and support to the grieving family.
Nichola Aylward’s life serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the power of compassion, dedication, and advocacy in creating a more inclusive and equitable world. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched and the positive change she brought about.
remembering Nichola Aylward: A Champion for Inclusive Living
Kevin Malone, Senior Editor of world-today-news.com, speaks with Dr. Siobhan O’Connell, a leading advocate for individuals with Down syndrome adn Professor of Disability studies at University College Dublin, about the passing of Nichola Aylward, former CEO of Down syndrome Ireland.
Kevin: dr. O’Connell, thank you for joining us today. The passing of Nichola Aylward has deeply affected the Down syndrome community in Ireland. Could you share your thoughts on her legacy?
Dr. O’Connell: It’s an honor too remember Nichola. Her loss is truly a blow to us all. As the former CEO of Down Syndrome Ireland, she wasn’t just a leader; she was a passionate advocate and a fierce protector of rights for individuals with Down syndrome. Nichola understood deeply the challenges they face and tirelessly worked to create a more inclusive and equitable society for them.
kevin: the article mentions her work at Down Syndrome Ireland. What were some of her most notable achievements?
dr. O’Connell: Nichola spearheaded many groundbreaking initiatives during her time at Down Syndrome ireland. She led the charge for increased educational opportunities, promoted employment opportunities for adults with Down syndrome, and advocated tirelessly for better healthcare access. But perhaps her greatest achievement was her ability to bring people together. She fostered a sense of community and belonging, uniting families, individuals with Down syndrome, and advocates under a shared vision: a world where everyone has the chance to thrive.
Kevin: The article also highlights the request from the family for attendees at her funeral to wear odd socks. Can you speak to the significance of that gesture?
Dr. O’Connell: It’s a beatiful and fitting tribute to Nichola’s spirit and her connection to the Down Syndrome community. Wearing odd socks is a symbol of acceptance and party of difference. It’s a reminder that embracing individuality and promoting inclusion is something we should all strive for. Nichola embodied that spirit every day of her life.
kevin: Nichola Aylward’s passing is certainly a loss, but it sounds like her legacy will continue to inspire change.
Dr. O’Connell: Absolutely. nichola’s work has laid a strong foundation, and her spirit will continue to guide us. Down Syndrome Ireland remains committed to carrying on her mission, working towards a world where everyone, regardless of their ability, has the opportunity to reach their full potential.