PICTURES: Tipperary writer launches book of poetry with all proceeds going to charity

Tipperary writer Margaret O’Donnell recently launched a book of her poetry titled ‘My Hidden Me’.

The launch was attended by a crowd of her friends and family in Cashel Library on Tuesday December 16.

All proceeds of Margaret’s poetry collection go to the Children’s Health Foundation (CHI), which lays close to Margaret’s heart.

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Margaret began the launch by saying that she always wanted to do something to donate back to Crumlin hospital, after spending some time there as a child when she was aged nine.

Margaret told those that attended that in 1974 she was diagnosed with Klippel-Feil syndrome, a bone disorder that is characterized by the abnormal joining (fusion) of two or more spinal bones in the neck.

Margaret said that her time spent there as a child helped form some of her poetry, and she has great memories of being cared for in the hospital.

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“Donating the proceeds of the book to Crumlin made sense since it’s a place close to my heart,” said Margaret.

Explaining her passion for writing, Margaret told those who attended:

“A few years ago when I finished work, I thought of doing an MA in creative writing. I’ve always loved writing. My hidden me started when I was about 18 or 19,” she explained.

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Margaret’s poems take inspiration from various stages in her life, touching many aspects of life we can all relate to.

‘My Hidden Me’ was illustrated by Majella Ryan, who really helped bring the poetry to life, said Margaret.

Margaret thanked Cashel Library for their help in giving her the space to launch her poetry book. She also thanked everyone who came to the launch, while acknowledging that many could not attend as it had been rescheduled at the last minute due to storm Bram.

Margaret also acknowledged those close to her who sadly passed away before her poetry book was finished. Her uncle John Foley, her cousin Alison, her dear friend Patsy and her mother-in-law Cottie.

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