An inspiration to all

In her neighbourhood, she is affectionately known as 'granny’. Her friends and colleagues describe her as 'an inspiration’, while for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she is the perfect role model.
Athlone lady Maureen Gorman has a heart of gold. She oozes warmth and kindness and has an admirable desire to help others.
At the age of 87, Maureen - a mother of seven - lives the kind of life that many people decades younger than her would envy, such is the energy and enthusiasm she injects into her daily tasks.
There is a constant tap at her door; it’s neighbouring children, calling to have a few words with 'granny’. No-one leaves empty-handed. 'Granny’ has a stack of sweets and chocolates in the house which she is more than happy to share with her little neighbours, along with her 18 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren who are spread out across Athlone, Offaly and Dublin.
Her home in Athlone is warm and inviting and she loves people calling for the chat.
“I love people. There is always someone coming to visit. The little ones come for sweets. They all call me 'granny’. They knock on the door and say, 'Hiya Nanny Maureen’,” she laughs.
Aside from her kind hospitality in her home, Maureen has a very active life outside of the home. She is very much a community person and is immersed in a number of local projects, both as a participant and leader. Her eyes light up as she talks about her various projects; she embraces each and every one of them.

 

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