Shay Kinsella was the founder of the Share A Dream Foundation, a charity dedicated to helping children with serious illnesses and special needs. In the late 80s, Shay met a seven-year-old girl who was battling Leukaemia. He was taken by the heart-wrenching battle this girl and her family were dealing with daily. He asked her what her dream was, and she said she would love to visit Disneyland, Shay set about making her dream a reality, but tragically the little girl passed away before this was possible.

Deeply moved by this encounter, Shay set up the Share A Dream Foundation and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of sick children by providing financial support, organising events, and creating opportunities for them to experience moments of joy and normalcy. Shay’s dedication to his cause earned him widespread respect, and his work left a lasting impact on both the families he helped and the broader community.

One of his most notable achievements was the establishment in 2016 of the Dreamland Play Centre in Limerick, a unique facility designed specifically for children with disabilities. Sadly, Shay passed away in 2020, the Charity closed, and the Covid-19 pandemic extended the closure to 2024. Shay’s legacy is now being honoured through the relaunch of the foundation, guided by a new Board of Management and a small executive team who are supported by dedicated, Garda-vetted volunteers. This new chapter, inspired by Shay’s vision and dedication, will continue to make a positive impact on children and families, providing them with dreams, support, and experiences.