Kerry concert for Kevin Bell Trust to feature some of Killorglin’s finest musical talent

The charity's help and support proved invaluable as they navigated the waters to return Catherine's body to Ireland for burial.

"On August 23, our sister Catherine died in New York. She was undergoing cancer treatment but got sepsis and died very quickly. My brother and I had travelled to New York to be with her," explained Donal Moroney.

"After her death I went online to see how to bring her home and I came across the charity. I emailed them to see how to do this and they came back to me within half an hour. I couldn't believe it."

It proved a huge relief to Donal and his family, who are from Killorglin, and within a very short period the repatriation process was underway through the Kevin Bell Trust – a charity set up to help families whose loved ones die abroad to bring their bodies home. It was set up by Colin and Eithne Bell whose son Kevin died in New York in 2013.

Donal said they had intended to pay the cost themselves but had no idea what steps to take but the Kevin Bell Trust stepped in and took care of everything.

"They told me they would bring my sister home within five days and I was given the name of a Funeral Home to go to, and there I filled out forms and told them what undertaker to contact in Ireland. It was such a relief, it was unbelievable," Donal said.

Donal has not forgotten this kindness at a time when it is needed most and he hopes to repay the charity by raising substantial funds through a fundraising concert this weekend.

"When you have first-hand experience of the charity you see how amazing it is," he said.

Given Donal's own background as a talented musician, he is gathering a host of fellow musicians to perform with him at the concert this Friday, November 15, at 8pm at 10 Bridge Street, Killorglin in what promises to be a great night of entertainment.

All funds will be donated to the charity and it is hoped its founders, Colin and Eithne, will attend the concert.

Local musicians and volunteers have rowed in to help Donal and his family ensure a wonderful event for all and, most important, an event that will raise funds to ensure another family like the Moroney family can get help to bring their loved ones home.