On Wednesday, July 16, 2025, we gathered to celebrate the remarkable life of Liz Whelan, our cherished Counselling Co-ordinator, who touched countless lives at An Cosán and within the communities we serve. Anne Genockey, Deputy CEO of An Cosán, delivered this heartfelt tribute at Liz’s funeral, honouring her profound impact, unwavering dedication, and the compassionate spirit that will forever live on in our hearts.
Today, we’re remembering and honouring our special friend and colleague Liz. It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye, but also with deep gratitude for the times we shared, and the impact Liz had on all our lives in An Cosán and especially in the communities we work with.
In her work as a counsellor Liz embodied kindness, compassion, and empathy. She built loving friendships with everyone in An Cosan and respectful relationships with her clients. Liz always made space for others to feel valued and heard, and her door was always open for everyone.
Along with her role as a psychotherapist, Liz assessed new clients and placed them with a member of the counselling team who she felt would be best able to support the person, and the issue with which they were presenting. She put a lot of thought and care into this, ensuring the clients would receive the best support possible.
Liz believed in the potential of every person who walked through our doors, helping countless individuals find hope and confidence in themselves. She continuously spoke of the need for us to extend our service, to meet more needs in the community.
Her legacy will live on in the lives she touched.
The learners who, because of Liz’s support found the strength to stay on their educational journey.
The clients who came to Liz expressing thoughts of suicide but because of her support are still with us today. When I broke the news that Liz received a couple of weeks ago to one of her ex-clients their response was “that woman saved my life.”
The clients Liz worked with who were experiencing domestic violence, abuse, coercive control, childhood trauma, post-natal depression, or other serious issues.
The communities and peer support groups that grew stronger because of her dedication.
Her colleagues who felt supported and inspired by her example.
We remember the wisdom Liz shared, her wonderful sense of humour and the quiet strength she brought to the counselling team, and the wider organisation. During Covid Liz led her through wellbeing sessions online, and God help anyone who she found out any of us wasn’t taking care of their wellbeing! And likewise if Liz found out we had stopped taking our Magnesium! When anyone remarked on how glamorous she was looking – which was every day – she was happy to share her secrets with them.
As we say farewell, we will carry forward her spirit of empathy and service. Though Liz’s presence will be deeply missed, her light will remain with us, guiding, inspiring, and reminding us of the difference one person can make.
Rest in peace Liz, you will always be remembered in An Cosán.
We send our deepest condolences and sympathy to Celine, John and Niamh, her sons-in-law, her gorgeous grandchildren who she was so proud of, and all her family and friends.
Remembering Liz Whelan, a beacon of kindness and compassion at An Cosán.
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