To Stephen Gately. We will miss you. xx

We are very sad to hear the news of Stephen Gately's passing today.

I met Stephen  and watched him perform a live concert with Boyzone for my charity; Irish Autism Action and my kid's school; Saplings Rathfarnham,
at The Keith Duffy Masked Ball in December 2008

It was a difficult economic time. The banks were in trouble, companies were going to the wall and no one wanted to be seen spending money. But the promise of a Boyzone concert ensured we sold all our tables and helped keep my kids'school going for another year.
All the Boyz and their families were there for the dinner and auction, just one table away from ours.

I think at one stage they were bidding against each other in the Auction to get the prices up.

And Boy did they put on a fantastic show at the end.

As sad as this is for all of us, our heartfelt condolences must go to his husband, his family and dear friends.
Stephen, may your spirit be in a good place. Thank you for the good you brought to the world.
We will miss you. xx